Borate Preservatives for Non-exposed Wood

Non-exposed Wood

Boron has long been recognized as an effective and very safe pesticide in wood. In part, it effectiveness comes from its ability to diffuse freely throughout the wood, thus protecting even the center of large timbers, which are not affected by pressure treating. Unfortunately, the diffusability of boron also makes it difficult to keep in the wood under wet conditions, so it is not likely to replace CCA or other preservatives in outdoor applications. For termite protection, however, or for other potential infestations in wood that is protected from the weather, borate preservatives can offer a relatively non-toxic and affordable solution.