Nearly all of the 1.5 million homes constructed in the United States each year have light frames made of wood, the world's most sustainable building material. The largest threat to wood construction systems are, however, relatively small: termites, which cause an estimated $3 billion in damage each year.

Traditional treatment systems feature a pesticide applied to the soil at the foot of the house and treated wood used for building elements in close proximity to the ground. This system is inherently incomplete because it doesn't stop airborne termites, carpenter ants, wood boring beetles, or decay fungi. It can also mask infestation of structural systems that are hidden from view - and their associated costs and safety risks - until it's too late.

Treating lumber and wood composites used for all structural components with borates provides built-in protection. Protection that has been proven effective for years in Hawaii, New Zealand and Europe … and that is rapidly gaining acceptance throughout the United States. Using borate treated wood construction materials in addition to conventional soil barriers and periodic inspection by a licensed pest control operator offers an integrated approach to pest management - and gives home builders and homeowners alike a reliable, long lasting solution that is safe for people, pets and the environment.

To Learn More:

Borate treated building products: http://www.osmose.com/wood/usa/preserved/smartguard/.

Borate treated wood components such as pressure-treated studs, joists and rafters are available from Osmose, Inc at www.osmose.com/wood/usa/preserved/smartguard/.

Wood composites containing borates such as Oriented Strand Board sheathing and siding are available from LP Corporation at www.smartguard.lpcorp.com/home.asp.

Find out more about borates in construction systems in these articles:

» Borates to the Rescue: Treated Structural System saves the day

» Borates: The Future of Framing