Mike from Social Circle writes
I use a sawmill to cut walnut and oak for furniture building. I have an active powder post beetle problem. I believe the Asian Ambrosia Beetle is the culprit. I would like to use Bora Care on the known active lumber and Timbor as a preventative on newly sawn wood. My concern is safety during milling and working with the wood later on. What precautions would be required to use wood treated with either or both of these products for typical furniture building. Unlike many uses of lumber where handling of the wood is minimal, wood used in building furniture gets a lot of hands on contact. Thanks, Mike Waters
The Boracare would be the more appropriate product of the two for both active infestations and prevention of beetles and other pests. Timbor will leave a white powdery film on the surface of the wood and will only penetrate a 1/4 inch into the surface. Boracare, if mixed thoroughly before applying and not over applied, will dry completely clear and penetrate all the way to the center of the wood. Once an application of either of the products is dry, it would be safe to handle the wood bare handed or use tools to work the lumber into furniture. If you wanted to check with Nisus the manufacturer regarding any safety inhalation precautions if you use the Timbor powder and cut it after treating, you can reach them directly at 800-264-0870.
Answer last updated on: 10/19/2021
