It’s common knowledge that termites eat wood, but whether they have preferences for different types of wooden materials is another matter. For example, do termites eat cedar? Or what about wood that has been pressure treated?
Learn more about termite-resistant wood and then find out what you should do to truly protect your home from termites.
Do Termites Eat Pressure-Treated Wood?
Pressure-treated wood is infused with chemical preservatives to help protect the material against rotting and insects. This wood is often found in parts of the home that come into contact with the earth, such as decks, exterior basement walls, fence posts and many outdoor structures.
It’s important to keep in mind that while this material is a type of termite-resistant wood, it is not foolproof. Termites can damage pressure-treated wood. This typically happens if the wood gets damp and starts to decay, or during construction.
Do Termites Eat Cedar?
As you’ve seen, there are no known types of termite-proof wood. Cedar, however, is considered to be a naturally durable and termite-resistant wood. AgResearch Magazine — a United States Department of Agriculture publication — reported that studies showed termites do eat cedar, though it might not necessarily be their first choice of a food source.
So, while cedar might be a somewhat termite-resistant wood, it’s by no means an outright termite repellant. (It’s also a notoriously expensive building material.)
Will Termite-Resistant Wood Protect My Home?
The short answer to this question is not really. Even pressure-treated wood and naturally durable woods are susceptible to termite damage and infestations. That’s because termites can tunnel over treated wood easily to get to untreated wood or other cellulose-containing substances in a home.
Like DIY termite control, this method just isn’t a sure thing when it comes to protecting your home.
Terminix® has 90 years of experience killing termites and thousands of professionally-trained technicians and customer service agents to ensure we do everything possible to meet your termite control needs. We’re committed to doing whatever it takes to defend your home from the costs of termite damage.
In addition, a termite control professional will be able to tell you whether you’re dealing with carpenter ants or termites. The two are often confused as both are attracted to moisture and wood, have wings as reproductives and swarm during mating season.
Contact Terminix and schedule your free termite inspection, so you can get your customized treatment or protection plan started as soon as possible.
