New research has confirmed that H2F blue pine framing timber maintains termite resistance even after exposure to simulated flooding and high temperatures — offering builders increased confidence that treated framed timber remains “fit-for-purpose” despite rising climate volatility. That is according to Tripti Singh, Director of the National Centre for Timber Durability & Design Life, who spoke to Wood Central following the 2025 Durability Centre Annual Showcase last week.
As it stands, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland are among the top 10% of global jurisdictions most at risk from the physical impacts of climate change, with intense heat and catastrophic flooding leading researchers to test the long-term durability of treated structural materials. To address this, Professor Singh said that researchers conducted a six-month laboratory study, exposing H2F timber — treated with water-based synthetic pyrethroids — to cycles of intense heat and simulated flooding. After the initial testing, timber was subjected to outdoor field trials to assess its termite resistance under natural conditions.
The findings were clear: untreated samples suffered significant termite attack. At the same time, H2F-treated timber maintained strong resistance, even after notable loss of preservatives: “These results show H2F framing timber remains fit for purpose following severe weather exposure,” according to the research team. “Despite some chemical degradation, enough active preservative was retained to prevent termite damage.”
This resilience comes from the product’s initial treatment process, which uses synthetic pyrethroids to protect against borers and termites in indoor, dry environments. The study focused on light framing timber commonly used south of the Tropic of Capricorn — including roof cavities and wall framing. The outdoor phase of the trial showed that samples subjected to flooding and high-temperature simulation remained structurally sound and insect-resistant, highlighting the importance of chemical retention in real-world conditions.
Still, researchers urge caution.
“Given the variability and intensity of future weather events, we recommend testing preservative levels whenever H2F timber is exposed to flooding or extreme heat,” the team said. “Remedial treatment may be needed depending on exposure severity.” With reports from the IPCC and the World Meteorological Organisation confirming climate trends such as longer heatwaves and heavier rainfall, the building industry is seeking materials that can withstand both environmental and structural pressure. For timber systems, durability after disaster may be the next frontier.
According to Professor Singh, the 2025 Durability Centre Annual Showcase brought together over 60 in-person attendees and an additional 20 online participants from across industry, research, and government. “It was fantastic to see such strong engagement at this year’s Showcase. Events like this are vital for connecting research with real-world industry needs,” Professor Singh said.
- To learn more about the National Centre for Timber Durability & Design Life, click here for Wood Central’s special feature.
