Top 5 Tips for Selecting Termite-Resistant Timbers to Ensure Long-Lasting Structures

Spokesperson: Bhawna Sharma

A modern interior featuring a ceiling crafted from termite-resistant wood, highlighting its natural beauty and durability amidst a backdrop of urban greenery visible through large glass windows.

Timber is one of the most sustainable, aesthetic and versatile building materials available today. In tropical and humid climates where termite infestations can silently wreak havoc on timber, selecting the right kind of wood becomes a matter of necessity, not just preference. Termites can silently damage structures from within, often going undetected until the damage is severe. Fortunately, making informed choices at the outset can significantly reduce this risk. Here are five practical tips to help you choose termite-resistant timber for long-lasting buildings.

Select the right timber species

The first line of defence against termites is choosing the right species. Teakwood is widely respected for its natural termite resistance, with its dense grain, rich oils, and silica content. This combination deters pests while providing exceptional durability and aesthetic charm. Salwood, while more budget-friendly, offers excellent resistance when properly seasoned. Western Red Cedar also stands out with its thujaplicin, natural compounds that fend off both termites and fungi. 

For a more premium option, Yellow Cedar offers superior resistance to both rot and termites. Its light yellow hue adds a visual softness to any space, while its durability makes it ideal for long-term applications, especially outdoors.

Prioritise Seasoned Timber

No matter the species, always opt for well-seasoned timber. Drying wood reduces its moisture content, which improves dimensional stability and makes it less appealing to termites. Seasoned timber is less likely to warp, crack, or absorb moisture, which are some of the common problems that can create ideal conditions for termite infestation.

Enhanced termite resistance with advanced protection

While some timbers are naturally termite-resistant, treatments can significantly boost longevity. Subterranean termites, the most common culprits, hate light but thrive in warm, damp environments with plenty of moisture. If you can isolate the wood from such conditions, it's often just fine. Where ground contact is inevitable, it’s best to use chemical or physical barriers, or opt for naturally termite-resistant species or pressure-treated lumber in ground or near-ground applications. Regular inspection and timely remedial actions are key to long-term protection.

There are two kinds of wood coatings: solvent-based (which dry into a hard finish) and water-based (which form a more flexible film). Artius applies water-based coatings for extended durability on glulam members, enhancing their resistance and performance over time.

Start building with termite prevention in mind

Beyond timber selection, construction techniques play a vital role in termite resistance. Avoid direct wood-to-soil contact, maintain proper ventilation, and consider installing physical barriers such as stainless steel mesh or compacted sand beneath structures. These additions, while often overlooked, significantly reduce the chances of termite intrusion.

Consider Engineered Timber Like Glulam

An often underutilised option in termite-resistant construction is the use of engineered wood products such as Glulam (glued laminated timber). Made by bonding layers of timber with moisture-resistant adhesives under high pressure, Glulam offers superior strength, dimensional stability, and consistent quality. Its manufacturing process allows for chemical treatments that enhance termite resistance and make it suitable for large spans and load-bearing structures. As Glulam is engineered from smaller cuts of timber, it maximises resource efficiency, an added benefit for sustainable construction.

With the right approach, timber structures can remain strong, beautiful, and termite-free for generations.