How do borates help in wood preservation against pests?

Borates are effective in wood preservation primarily because they act as a poison for insects. When wood treated with borates is consumed by insects, particularly wood-boring pests like termites or powderpost beetles, the borates interfere with their digestive systems, making it difficult for the insects to extract nutrients from the wood. This disruption ultimately leads to their death, effectively reducing populations and preventing further damage to the wood structure.

The effectiveness of borates stems from their ability to penetrate wood fibers, making them a reliable choice for long-term protection against infestations. Additionally, borates have low toxicity to mammals and birds, which makes them safer for environmental applications compared to other chemical insecticides.

Understanding the primary mechanism of action of borates helps in appreciating their role not only in wood preservation but also in integrated pest management strategies, highlighting their importance in sustainable pest control practices in the lumber industry.