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Treatment
If planning to build in an area affected by the European House Borer (EHB), it is recommended that treated pine is used for structural purposes. A number of pine treatment options are available.
For pine in service, in-situ treatment can be undertaken.
For other affected pine products such as furniture and off-cuts, one treatment will be required to kill the infestation and one to protect it from further infestation. If you suspect EHB, please contact the EHB Response, on freecall 1800 084 881, immediately.
The following treatments are all registered with the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA). Registrations can change, and new products are registered, so we advise you to check the APVMA website www.apvma.gov.au for the latest registrations.
Treatment pre-construction
CCA treated pine
CCA treatment is a process that binds chemicals into the timber which provides protection against termites and borer. CCA is available in various treatment levels, H3 and above, allowing the timber to be used inside and outside of the house as well as below and above ground. CCA also provides protection from rot and mould.
'Blue' treated pine
'Blue' treatment is a process that infuses chemicals into the timber which provides protection against termites and borer. 'Blue', a generic industry term, refers to various manufacturers products. Registered brand names include Wespine Blue, Trublue T2, Framesure Blue and Hynes T2. 'Blue' is only available in H2 treatment level which is for use inside the house, above the ground use and protected from the weather.
Tan E treated pine
Tan E treatment is an alternative to CCA providing similar performance that binds chemicals into the timber which provides against termites and borer. Tan E is a chemical manufactured by Koppers Arch. Tan E is available in treatment levels allowing the timber to be used inside and outside of the house as well as below and above ground.
LOSP treated pine
LOSP (Light Organic Spirit Preservative) treatment is a process that infuses chemicals into the timber which provides protection against termites and borer. LOSP is available in various treatment levels allowing the timber to be used inside and outside of the house above ground (H2 and H3 treatment level).
Treatment post-construction
Onsite chemical treatment
Termite protection applied under concrete slabs and foundations, or as perimeter treatment around foundations and slabs will not protect against EHB. Some pest treatment companies offer an additional boron spray treatment applied directly to pine framing and roof timbers as protection against EHB. The treatment consists of an initial treatment with mandatory yearly inspection. The service can coincide with termite spray treatment.
Borates are a recognised treatment, and can be found at chemical suppliers and some hardware stores. For registered products, visit the APVMA website.
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