Termite infestations are a nationwide phenomenon in the US. The termites will find wood and access it from the ground level using mud tubes, making your home and outer wooden structures vulnerable. However, the home can be protected by a liquid treatment, while your fence, being at the outer perimeter of the property, is usually much more vulnerable. Luckily, there are painting and staining products out there that can help you protect your fence as well. Let’s take a look at some of these products:

Borate-based wood preservative

Borate-based products can be either brushed or sprayed onto the wood before painting or staining it. The product will work as a termite repellent, and you can usually buy it in powder form, mix it with water, and then apply it through your preferred method. You can also use the borate solution into the post hole, which will create a chemical barrier at the base of the fence and the surrounding soil.

Oil-based primer

An oil-based primer can be applied before the finish coat. Try to apply it in two coats, with the second one being applied after the first one is thoroughly dried. This will act as a shield and add an additional layer of protection.

Termite-repellent paint

The finish coat can also be used for defense, if you purchase termite-repellent paint. This paint will have chemicals in it that will make the fence unpalatable to termites. Make sure to follow the instructions on the can as you may have to add up to three layers of finish for maximum effectiveness.

Oil-based stain

If you do not want to go with a paint, you can use an oil-based stain. This type of stain will soak into the wood and make it unappealing to termites. Before adding the stain, make sure that you use a wood sealer in several layers. The more layers of sealer and stain you apply, the stronger the chemicals and oils penetrate the wood, increasing resistance to termite infestations.

Termite-proof wood

If you are planning on building a completely new fence, you can use termite-proof wood. You have woods such as yellow cedar or redwood, along with some more exotic types such as Tallowwood and Laotion Teak, or you can go with pressure-treated wood which is more accessible and which can be found in lumber depots or hardware stores.

If however, despite your best efforts, your fence still becomes infested, there may be a large colony on your property. Contact us today if you notice any signs of a termite infestation.