Worm holes in furniture and other woodwork are small holes created by woodworms. Though called worms, the insects that create worm holes are actually beetles, most commonly the furniture beetle. Other species that can create furniture worm holes are the powder-post beetle, longhorn beetle, and death watch beetle.
How to Spot Worm Holes in Furniture?
All types of wooden furniture are susceptible to worm holes, the most common of which are cherry, spruce, beech, birch, and alder.
To spot the presence of woodworm in your furniture, look out for the following.
- Small borings on the outer surface of the furniture
- Frass buildup on and around the furniture
- Remains of dead woodworm around the furniture
How to Address Worm Holes in Furniture?
Some DIY methods to treat worm holes in furniture include the following.
- Applying insecticide onto the affected furniture
- Heating the affected piece of furniture then inject woodworm oil into the worm holes
- Applying vinegar mixed with all-purpose cleaner to the infected areas of the furniture
Wood fillers, beeswax, or putty should then be applied to the worm holes to seal the holes. This will restore the appearance of your furniture and aid in detecting possible woodworm infestation.
To prevent worm holes in other furniture, it is best to have the affected piece far so as not to infect them. Watch out for moisture levels and make sure that closed spaces are properly ventilated.
Is Having Worm Holes in Furniture Becoming a Trend?
Worm holes are not always problematic on furniture. The process of distressing creates worm holes in furniture to make it look more antique.
Some methods of creating man-made worm holes in furniture include the following.
- Striking the furniture with an ice pick
- Driving a finishing nail into the furniture and then pulling it out
- Power drilling with a 1/16 inch bit
Other signs of distressing on furniture include dents, gouges, cracked paint, chips, and scratches.
