About Borer
Borer, a tiny beetle, if left unchecked will destroy your home from within, guaranteed. Today’s building codes will not allow untreated wood anywhere near your home aside from under exceptional conditions.
However, what about those great old homes with grand architecture, glorious native timbers and ornate decorations? Homes built around the turn of the 20th century used Rimu, Totara, Matai and Miro. During that time, builders chose wood for its dexterity and strength rather than today’s treated ‘flash grown pine’. Sadly, 20th-century dexterity and strength is no defence against insects which are specifically designed to spend up to 4 years within the timber before emerging as an adult beetle with wings.
Favourite Areas for Borer
Borer does not favour a specific area of your home. Nonetheless, the less-visited places where they can hide and grow in number over the years are typically where they are eventually discovered. For example, borer is more likely to be found in roofing batons, building framing, load bearers, subfloor, internal walls etc. People are often alerted to the presence of this pest by tradesmen who turn up to conduct plumbing or electrical work.
Unfortunately, people can spread borer through moving antique furniture and natural wood items from home to home. One small dresser could potentially cost you thousands in repairs. Once you discover the presence of Borer within your home, it is highly advisable to establish whether there is any recent activity. Or if signs are just the remains of an old infestation. You may also want to ensure that the strength and dexterity of the load bearers have not been compromised.
Inspecting for Borer
You require a thorough inspection conducted by a professional for both peace of mind and securing a plan of attack. Smash’d Em Pest Control can do this for you. If we find the presence of fresh activity during the inspection, we will discuss with your options. We will also provide an obligation free quote if needed.
Please be aware that we can successfully treat borer found in ceiling voids or subfloor spaces including within your home in areas such as ceilings, skirting boards, door frames, closets and the like. We are also able to treat items of furniture within reason.
Read more about how we treat borer in our pest control service page.
Or give us a call, email or request a quote, and we can put this invasive pest to rest.