There are a number of wood treatments available on the market. In addition to varying degrees of termite repellency, some wood preservatives offer resistance to decay or wood destroying fungus.

The primary goal for the homeowner is to prevent termites from encountering the wood in the house. Thus, treated lumber is actually the last line of defense against termites. Current wood preservatives do not necessarily repel termites upon contact. If encountered by large numbers of foraging termites, the treated lumber will ultimately sustain at least some minor damage before termite feeding is eventually deterred.