Your Guide to HiBor® Treated Lumber
If you notice termites on your lumber, there's no need for alarm.
Your Guide to HiBor® Treated Lumber
Building Resources
HiBor® is a borate-based preservative that protects against both termites and wood rot. Our treatment process and procedures are in accordance with industry standards and Hawaiʻi building code requirements.
Treated wood is intended for the following use categories and application:
- UC1 Interior/Dry - Interior construction not exposed to ground, weather, or moisture sources. Examples: furniture, millwork, interior framing.
- UC2 Interior/Damp - Interior construction not in ground contact but subject to occasional moisture. Examples: beams, flooring, framing, sill plates.
- UC3A Above Ground Protected - Exterior construction protected by coating or design from direct weather exposure. Examples: coated trim, siding, protected framing and sheathing. *See Prime Trim Before Installation details below under Recommended Care Instructions
If you notice termites on your lumber, there's no need for alarm. It's a sign the treatment is actively working.
Termites are a year-round presence in Hawaiʻi — swarming simply increases during certain seasons. If you see termites on your lumber, don't be alarmed. It does not mean there is an infestation, and it does not mean the treatment has failed.
HiBor® works by disrupting the digestive system of termites that eat the treated wood — it is not a repellent. During swarming season (April–June), it's common to see termites crawling on or lightly surface feeding on treated lumber. As termites carry the material back to their colony, the treatment spreads — protecting the full structure over time.
Recommended Care Instructions
Keep it Dry & Covered
Borate is water-soluble. HiBor® performs best when kept dry. Keep plastic wrap on until needed and store lumber covered.
Store Off the Ground
Store on supports (treated wood, metal or concrete) at least 4-6 inches off the ground. No bare soil, gravel, and avoid using or stockpiling untreated pallets.
Treat Every Cut End
Cut, notched, or drilled lumber larger than 2”? Treat the exposed area with Bora-Care. Ask your HPM rep — we carry it
*Prime Trim Before Installation
Prime all sides with oil-based primer before it goes up. Priming after installation voids warranty coverage.
About the 20-Year Koppers HiBor® Warranty
To keep your warranty valid:
- Use HiBor® lumber throughout the full structure
- Register your warranty with Koppers after construction
- Keep all exterior surfaces painted or covered from weather
- Re-treat any cut ends with Boracare during construction
- Complete required inspections every three years
- For complete warranty information, please visit: https://kopperspc.com/hi-bor/
⚠ Important to Know
The warranty does not cover decking, deck framing, or lumber left exposed to direct weather without paint or cover. Do not disturb or repair suspected termite damage before contacting HPM or Koppers — doing so may void your claim.
If you have any questions, please contact your nearest HPM location. Mahalo.