Borer Control

Experts In Borer Pest Control

Borer Pest Control Brisbane

Borers (also known as wood borers or woodworm) attack the sapwood of timber and can cause serious structural and cosmetic damage if left untreated. Borer activity is common in Brisbane due to our warm climate and the widespread use of timber in homes, decks and roof structures.

At Results Termite & Pest Control Services, we provide professional borer inspections and targeted treatments across Brisbane, helping homeowners, builders and property managers protect timber structures before damage worsens.

What Is Timber Borer and Why It’s a Problem

Timber borers are wood-boring beetles that lay their eggs inside timber. Once hatched, the larvae tunnel through the wood as they feed, weakening timber from the inside out.

Borer damage often goes unnoticed until exit holes or fine wood dust (frass) appears — by then, the internal damage may already be extensive.

Common areas affected include:

What Is Timber Borer and Why It’s a Problem

Flooring and subfloors

Decking and pergolas

Furniture and joinery

Roof timbers and trusses

Signs of Borer Activity

Small, round exit holes in timber

Signs of Borer Activity

Fine powdery dust (frass) below timber surfaces

Crumbling or weakened timber

Splintering timber edges

Damage that worsens during warmer months

If you’re unsure whether damage is active or historical, a professional inspection is essential.

Why Professional Borer Treatment Matters

DIY sprays rarely reach larvae feeding deep inside timber and often fail to stop ongoing damage.

Why Professional Borer Treatment Matters

Professional borer treatment:

Identifies whether activity is active or historic

Targets larvae inside timber, not just surface insects

Helps prevent reinfestation

Protects structural timber and property value

Early treatment can significantly reduce repair costs.

Preventing Borer Damage Before It Starts

Borers can remain hidden inside timber for years before visible damage appears. The best protection is prevention — reducing the conditions that attract borers and protecting vulnerable timbers before an infestation takes hold.

Keeping timber dry, sealed and well-maintained significantly lowers the risk of borer activity. Regular inspections and professional preventative treatments add an extra layer of protection, particularly in older homes or properties with exposed or untreated wood.

If your home has a history of borer activity or you’re unsure about the condition of your timbers, a professional inspection can identify risks early and help prevent costly structural repairs.

Simple Ways to Reduce Borer Risk

Fix roof leaks, plumbing issues and moisture problems promptly

Ensure good ventilation in roof voids and subfloor areas

Seal, paint or stain exposed timber regularly

Use treated or naturally resistant timbers where possible

Avoid storing cardboard or timber under the house

Watch for fine powder (frass) and small exit holes

Preventing Borer Damage Before It Starts

How to Stop the Spread of Borer in Your Home

Timber Borer Exit Holes in Brisbane Home

Replacing all susceptible timbers is often recommended when selling a property, as active borer is commonly identified during building inspections. However, full timber replacement can be costly and impractical.

Chemical borer treatments provide an effective and lower‑cost solution. Because borer life cycles can last up to three years, annual treatments over affected areas are recommended for at least three consecutive years to ensure long‑term control and protection.

borer pest control treatment application

The how-to of treating borer affected timber.

Our borer treatments involve applying a professional‑grade insecticide to susceptible timbers, including the underside of flooring and structural woodwork. Treatments are designed to penetrate deeply into timber to reach active larvae.

We carefully apply products to maximise effectiveness while minimising impact on occupants, pets and the surrounding environment. Yearly follow‑up treatments are strongly recommended to disrupt the borer life cycle and prevent reinfestation.

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FAQ'S Borer Pest Control

Can timber borer cause structural damage? Yes — some timber borer species can cause structural damage if left untreated. Borers feed on timber from the inside out, weakening beams, floor joists, roof timbers, and framing over time. While early infestations may appear cosmetic, ongoing activity can reduce the strength of structural timber and lead to costly repairs. The risk depends on the borer species, the age of the infestation, and the type of timber affected, which is why early inspection and treatment are important.

How do I know if borer is active? Active borer infestations often show fresh signs, including: New, clean-edged exit holes in timber Fine, powdery dust (frass) appearing beneath timber or around holes Soft or crumbly timber when probed Ticking or faint clicking noises (in some species) Old borer damage usually has darkened holes and no fresh dust. A professional inspection is the most reliable way to confirm whether borer activity is current or historic.

How long does borer treatment last? A professional borer treatment typically provides long-term protection for several years, depending on the product used, timber type, and environmental conditions. Some treatments continue working as the active ingredient remains within the timber, preventing reinfestation. Regular inspections help ensure protection remains effective, particularly in older homes or properties with exposed or untreated timber.

Is borer treatment safe for families and pets? Yes — modern borer treatments are designed to be safe when applied by licensed professionals. Treatments are targeted to the timber and, once dry, pose minimal risk to occupants, including children and pets. Your technician will provide clear guidance on ventilation and any short-term precautions to ensure the home remains safe during and after treatment.