TRENDS IN TIMBER PRESERVATION––A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

Durability of timber can be conferred by the selection and application of effective preservative treatments or by processes that modify the wood structure and render it resistant to insect and fungal attack. Environmental, and health and safety concerns have led many governments to regulate the use of wood preservatives. Older types that have served the industry well for decades have in some areas been withdrawn from the market under the influence of such regulations and new formulations have taken their place. The fact that new preservatives are available in the markets where older types have become less acceptable reflects an industry ahead of, not driven by, regulations and environmental pressures. Sustainability and carbon footprint issues are driving a new approach to the prediction of service life of building components and this is also influencing the direction of timber preservation.