Borate treatment of framing in new home construction is a proven method to protect wood against termites and decay and should be planned from design through final inspection.

Apply disodium octaborate tetrahydrate as a spray or dip to all framing members at label rates to achieve effective penetration; this typically requires clean, dry wood and coverage on all sides including ends and notches for full protection. Pre treating lumber at the mill gives more uniform uptake because the product can be applied before moisture or site contamination, but on site pretreatment is effective when performed before sheathing and insulation are installed and when weather and jobsite storage keep wood dry. Use a licensed applicator or follow manufacturer directions closely and document concentrations and gallons per square foot to ensure compliance with warranty and building code expectations. Focus treatment on high risk areas such as sill plates, rim joists, band joists, and any framing around openings and plumbing chases where moisture or soil contact is more likely. Treat cut ends and framing cavities after field cuts since these are entry points for insects and spots where decay begins; a brush or low pressure spray directed into cavities is often the best practice. Combine borate treatment with active moisture control, including proper flashing, drainage planes, and ventilation, because borates are water soluble and prolonged wetting reduces effectiveness.

Three common mistakes are under treating cut ends and not treating notches which leaves obvious entry points for termites and areas for decay; correct that by always treating field cuts immediately and applying product directly into notches and cavities. Another mistake is applying borates to wet or contaminated wood which prevents uptake and reduces protection; wait for wood to be clean and dry and store treated stock under cover. A third issue is relying on borates as a lone measure where chronic moisture problems exist; address framing moisture through flashing, proper grading, continuous gutters, and ventilation before or during treatment so the borate remains effective and the structure dries as intended.

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