Do Termites Eat Pressure Treated Wood? Know the Risks and Realities

When it comes to protecting your home from termites, pressure-treated wood is often seen as a first line of defense. But a common question remains: do termites eat pressure treated wood? While this type of lumber is more resistant than untreated alternatives, it's not invincible. At Attack Pest Management, we help homeowners understand the real limits of treated lumber — and what extra steps are necessary for long-term protection.

Can Termites Eat Pressure Treated Wood?

The short answer is: yes, termites can eat pressure treated wood, but they typically prefer not to. The chemicals used in pressure-treating lumber are designed to repel or kill termites. However, over time, moisture, weathering, or cuts in the wood can reduce its protective properties — allowing termites to chew through or bypass it entirely.

In cases of extreme infestation or deteriorated wood, termites may even tunnel over or around treated surfaces to access untreated materials. That’s why it's essential to combine treated lumber with regular inspections and other prevention strategies. Here’s why regular termite inspections are crucial to maintaining your defenses.

Do Termites Eat Cedar or Other Natural Woods?

Many homeowners ask, will termites eat cedar or other naturally insect-resistant woods? While cedar has natural oils that repel insects, termites will still eat cedar if food is scarce or if the wood becomes aged or decayed. No wood is completely immune. If you're relying solely on the type of wood used in your home, you're leaving yourself vulnerable. Learn when termite damage is irreparable — and why proactive prevention matters.

Do Termites Eat Treated Wood or Lumber in Modern Homes?

Builders often use pressure-treated wood in framing, decks, and fencing. But will termites eat treated wood in these modern settings? If exposed edges or cracks form, termites can access the untreated core of the lumber. Similarly, do termites eat pressure treated lumber if it's in contact with moist soil? The answer is yes — especially if the chemical treatment has degraded over time.

Read the top 10 ways to prevent termites, including keeping treated wood dry and properly maintained.

When and How to Strengthen Your Termite Defense

Even if your home is built with treated lumber, termite control should never be passive. To maintain strong protection, consider these key steps:

• Regular inspections (ideally once a year)

• Barrier and soil treatments if you're in a high-risk area

• Proactive yard treatments, especially before termite season (learn when to treat your yard for termites)

• Seasonal protection timing — here’s when is the best time to treat your home

Without these extra layers, even treated wood can fail under termite pressure.

🛡️ Termite-Proof Your Home with Attack Pest Management

So, will termites eat pressure treated wood? They can — and they will, if conditions allow. Relying solely on lumber treatments isn’t enough. Let the experts at Attack Pest Management assess your home’s vulnerabilities and create a custom termite prevention plan.

👉 Schedule your inspection now at 626-915-1111 and get real protection that lasts.