How do wood preservatives work?
A wood preservative must have the ability to do three things: (1) penetrate the wood, (2) neutralize the food supply within wood in which decay fungi and wood destroying insects live, and (3) be present in sufficient quantities in a non-leachable form so that its protection outlasts the useful life of the wood product. Effective preservatives will also kill existing decay, fungi and insects, which might already exist in the wood. A true wood preservative is a toxic material, to be used with care. It will penetrate wood fibers and stop the organic enemies of wood.
