21 July 2017

Woodworm in the stairs: how do you spot and get rid of it?

A wooden staircase exudes warmth and charm, but requires proper maintenance. A common problem with wooden stairs is woodworm. These tiny insect larvae can cause major damage. But how do you know if your staircase has woodworm and, more importantly, how to get rid of it?

What exactly is woodworm?

By ‘woodworm’, we mean the larvae of wood-boring beetles. They live in wood and gnaw their way through it, creating tunnels. Over time, this can seriously compromise the structural integrity of your staircase.

How do you recognise woodworm in your stairs?

Are you unsure whether your staircase has woodworm? Look out for these signs:

Small round holes in the wood.
Boring dust (sawdust-like debris) around the stairs.
Black paper test: place a sheet of paper under a hole. If you see drill dust accumulating over time, there is a good chance you are dealing with woodworm.

How do you control woodworm in your stairs?

Treating woodworm requires care. There are special treatments available, often based on chemicals. These penetrate deep into the wood and kill the larvae. It is important to note that:

Always wear protective clothing, gloves and a face mask.
Ensure the room is well ventilated.
Protect the floor and furniture around the stairs.

As woodworm can cause significant damage very quickly, it is often advisable to call in a professional for effective treatment.

How to prevent woodworm in your stairs?

Prevention is better than cure. Make sure you maintain your wooden staircase regularly and bear in mind:

Keep the wood dry and well ventilated (to prevent mould and woodworm).
Finish the staircase with a protective coating.
Have your stairs inspected periodically if in doubt.

Find out here how to keep your new Upstairs staircase in perfect condition.

Sustainable solution: staircase renovation

Has your staircase already been severely damaged by woodworm? If so, a staircase renovation could be the solution. At Upstairs, we cover your existing staircase with high-quality stair treads, finished with the scratch- and wear-resistant Upstairs Original Top Layer. This will make your staircase look as good as new and provide long-lasting protection against wear and tear.

Make an appointment with an Upstairs advisor and discover how to make your staircase safe and stylish again.