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What Is A Borate Treatment, And Why Is It Better?

Borate treatment

When it comes to protecting your home from termites, prevention and effective treatment go hand in hand. While fumigation has long been the go-to method for severe termite problems, there’s another powerful option that not only eliminates termites but also protects your home for decades: borate treatment.

A borate wood treatment for termites is a non-toxic, long-lasting, and cost-effective solution that can be applied to exposed wood in your home. This method is especially valuable for homeowners looking for an extensive yet non-disruptive approach to termite control. 

Let’s explore what makes borate termite treatment so effective, and why it’s better than certain traditional methods.

What Is Borate Wood Treatment?

Borate treatment uses a naturally occurring mineral salt called borate (sodium borate or disodium octaborate tetrahydrate). When applied to wood, this solution penetrates four inches deep into wood, creating a protective barrier that is deadly to termites and other wood-destroying organisms.

Unlike normal, surface sprays that last a short time, a borate wood treatment penetrates deep and remains.  Until drawn out by prolonged exposure to water or moisture. This means your home stays protected long after the initial application.

Protect your wallet and your home learn why termite prevention beats costly repairs every time!

Why Borate Treatment Is a Smarter Option

1. No Need to Leave Your Home

One of the biggest advantages of borate treatment over fumigation is convenience. With fumigation, homeowners must leave the property for days, remove certain food items, bag up medications, and deal with the logistical hassle of being away.

Borate treatment is different; you can stay home during the process. There are no toxic fumes to worry about, no food removal, and no disruption to your daily life. Ease of use and peace of mind

2. Every Inch of Exposed Wood Is Treated

A borate termite treatment isn’t just applied in random spots; technicians treat every accessible and exposed piece of wood. This thorough approach means that both current termite infestations and potential future threats are addressed.

When applied during construction or renovation, borate wood treatments can reach structural beams, studs, rafters, and other critical areas that might otherwise be hard to access later.

3. Deep and Permanent Protection

Borate penetrates deep into wood up to four inches, ensuring that termites can’t just nibble around the treated areas. Once absorbed, the borate remains inside the wood permanently unless it’s exposed to significant moisture over time.

This depth of penetration makes it much more difficult for termites to find untreated areas, essentially turning your home’s wood into something completely toxic for termites & fungus.

4. Less Expensive Than Fumigation

While fumigation is sometimes necessary for severe, widespread infestations, it can be costly. Borate treatment for termites is generally less expensive and offers longer-lasting preventive benefits. For less invasive infestations or as a preventative measure, borate is often the most cost-effective choice.

In many cases, the savings aren’t just upfront; they continue for years because the protection remains in place, reducing the risk of costly structural repairs.

5. Prevention Saves Money Over Time

Because borate treatments protect for the future. By preventing termites from causing damage, you protect your home from thousands in costly repairs. Termites only show signs in common areas when they’ve been around for years. With borate treatments and constant yearly maintenance. You can keep termites out for good, saving thousands. And without going through the pain of leaving & preparing your home.

Want termite service that truly protects your home? Learn what sets K Termite apart.

Why is Borate Treatment Important?

  • Kills Termites on Contact

When termites try to eat borate-treated wood, they ingest the boron, which is toxic to them. This kills both existing termites inside the wood and prevents future infestations by deterring new termites.

  • Prevents Fungal Growth

Fungus and wood decay can cause severe damage to your home’s wooden structures. Borate treatment prevents fungal growth, preserving the integrity and strength of your wood for years to come.

  • Eliminates Both Present and Future Termites

Unlike some treatments that only repel termites or kill those currently active, borate treatment ensures ongoing protection by making the wood itself unappealing and deadly to termites.

When Is Borate Treatment the Best Choice?

  • For less invasive infestations: If termite activity is detected early and isn’t widespread, borate treatment is an excellent, non-invasive solution that protects your home without the need for disruptive fumigation.
  • When Fumigations Are Tough or Troublesome: Some homeowners may face personal, health, or logistical challenges that make fumigation difficult or impossible. In such cases, borate termite treatment provides an effective alternative that does not require vacating the home.
  • As Part of a Comprehensive Termite Control Plan: Many professional termite control companies recommend combining borate treatment with fumigation for maximum protection. Fumigation eliminates termites present throughout the home, while borate treatment safeguards the wood for the future, saving thousands in potential damage repairs.

Don’t just treat termites, eliminate them! Find out why fumigation is the ultimate home protection.

Keep Termites Away with K Termite’s Borate Solutions 

Protect your home from termites and wood decay with K Termite’s expert borate wood treatments. We offer free termite inspections to identify risks and treat every exposed wood surface with deep-penetrating solutions for lasting protection. 

Alongside borate treatments, we provide tailored termite control services and in-house carpentry repairs to fix any damage found. Backed by strong warranties and ongoing termite protection plans, our comprehensive approach ensures your home stays safe year-round. 

Choosing K Termite means investing in a safer, healthier, and more secure home environment. We combine the latest borate treatment technology with professional service to protect your property today and tomorrow.

Related Articles:

Is my home at risk for termites in Southern California?

Which Wood Types Are Most Resistant to Termite Damage?

Why Delayed Action Can Worsen Termite Damage

 Borate Treatment for Termites: What to Expect

Borate wood treatment is typically applied by licensed professionals. The process includes:

  • Inspection: A thorough examination of the property to identify all areas of exposed wood and possible termite activity.
  • Preparation: Creating access so there is as much exposed wood to spray as possible.
  • Application: Spraying the borate solution onto all exposed wood surfaces, namely attics and crawl spaces, where the wood is never painted. The solution penetrates deeply into the wood.
  • Drying and Final Inspection: Allowing the wood to dry within a few hours. And that’s it!

Borate treatment isn’t just another termite control method; it’s a game-changer. By offering deep, permanent protection against both termites and fungus, it addresses the problem at its root and keeps your home safe for years.

If you want effective, affordable, and long-term termite defense without the disruption of fumigation, borate wood treatment is worth serious consideration. And if you want it done right, K Termite is here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions About Borate Treatment for Termites

Q: How quickly does borate treatment start working against termites?

A: Borate begins working as soon as termites come into contact with the treated wood. It disrupts their digestive system and leads to termite elimination within days.

Q: Can borate treatment be used outdoors on wooden structures?

A: Yes, borate treatments can be applied to outdoor wooden structures like decks, fences, and sheds to protect against termites and wood decay, though they may need reapplication over time due to weather exposure.

Q: Will borate treatment stain or discolor wood surfaces?

A: When properly applied, borate treatments are clear and typically do not stain or discolor wood, preserving the natural appearance of your home’s wooden elements.

Q: Can I apply borate treatment myself, or should I hire a professional?

A: While DIY products exist, professional application ensures complete coverage, proper penetration, and safe handling of the treatment solution for the best long-term results.

Q: Does borate treatment have any smell or residue after application?

 A: Borate treatments generally have minimal odor during application and leave no sticky residue once dry, keeping your home clean and fresh.

Q: What maintenance is required after borate treatment?

A: Besides addressing moisture issues, routine termite inspections are recommended to monitor for any new activity and maintain your home’s protection.