treating old beams

[downshifter]

Hi
We have acquired some oak beams reclaimed from a neighbouring farmhouse some 300 years old. They have suffered from worm in the past but not recently and have been advised to treat them to prevent recurrence insect infestation. Can anyone recommend a product which is not full of nasty chemicals. My understanding is that a water based rather than solvent is best with borac being the active ingredient. Any advice?

 

[skier-hughes]

keep and fit in a well ventilated dry place and that's it, sorted.

 

[FamilyWiggs]

Unlikely to get a recurrence of infestation, unless the beams get damp; as Graham said fit and keep in well ventilated dry area and the need to spray poisonous chemicals around your home evaporates.

 

[Penners]

As has been mentioned above, once the timber is thoroughly dry it should become unattractive to wood-boring nasties. However, if you're adamant that you want to treat it, then it's a good idea to do so before you incorporate it into a building.

And yes, do use a borate treatment - this has low toxicity to humans and animals.

http://www.greenbuildingstore.co.uk/page--boron-timber-treatments-instructions.html