Step 1
Identify and confirm the problem as a wood worm problem. The worms will leave small holes in the wood with saw dust around the edges. You may even see adult beetles coming out of these holes.
Step 2
Test the humidity of the wood with a timber moisture meter. If the moisture content is over 18 percent, wood worm infestation is more likely. Creating a dry environment by increasing ventilation and decreasing humidity will diminish the ability of wood worm to thrive in the lumber.
Step 3
Apply a penetrating chemical like Boracare or Borax, which will seep two to four inches into the lumber to kill remaining larva. The wood worms will ingest the chemical and it will act like a poison, killing them. This will only work on lumber that has not recently been treated with a sealant. Follow the directions on the package, treating both sides of the lumber.