This is the last instalment of our series on termite treatment alternatives for construction in the form of termite-resistant woods. The previous posts covered at least eight types of wood already and this shall cover another three to finish the list. Again, as a preliminary note, it is necessary to remind the reader that the woods listed are being considered for their heartwood, since that is the most insect-resistant part of a tree. Furthermore, it is only proper to put forth the reminder that only one form of anti-termite insurance is not enough. It is well to use these woods for construction as a termite prevention measure, but it would be erroneous to think that shall be sufficient. When dealing with termites, all possible prevention measures should be taken, to be as safe as possible.
1. Casuarina equisetifolia – this tree comes with a whole array of names, including Coastal She-oak, Australian Pine, Ironwood, Beach Casuarina,and so on. There are actually two subspecies of the Casuarina equisetifolia, but it is the equisetifolia subspecies that is specifically targeted as a termite-resistant wood and possible termite treatment measure for building. It is actually more commonly known for its contributions to the fight against soil erosion in Hawaii and also as a popular bonsai plant in Asia.
2. Koompassia malaccensis – also known as the Kempas Tree, the wood from this plant has been widely used for construction in its native Malaysia for years, most often as hardwood flooring. It is fairly easy to work with and can look quite handsome, but there are a few issues with turning to it for termite prevention. The first has to do with supply, as the tree is on its way to being a threatened species. While not entirely in the “Threatened” category of the Red List, it is almost there. The second issue has to do with the debate regarding its termite-resistant characteristics. While researchers studying this plant at the University of Hawaii have found it to be fairly termite-resistant, studies from its native land have argued otherwise.
3. Koompassia excelsa – one of the most impressive and remarkable trees in the list, the Koompassia excelsa or Tualang is a beautiful tropical species that grows to well over 88m in height, making it one of the tallest trees in the compilation. It has recorded indications of resistance to termite activity—which would explain how it manages to grow to such heights in areas that suffer from termites—but there may be issues with using it for lumber too because it is labelled conservation-dependent (although not precisely threatened).
This completes our list of the most promising wood options for termite treatment in construction at the moment. Currently, scientists are still performing research to find out more possibilities for termite prevention in natural sources, so we can only cross our fingers and hope they come up with more.
For more information please visit Termite Control Arizona or Termite Inspection Phoenix
