Treatments · Borates
Disodium octaborate tetrahydrate
A borate used in labeled wood treatments for termites, carpenter ants and wood-boring beetles.
Updated October 4, 2026 · Educational ingredient reference
Quick reference
- Chemical family: Borates.
- Example forms: Liquid, Wettable powder.
- Example target groups: Termites, Carpenter ants, Wood-boring beetles.
- Use context: Wood treatment; professional assessment for structural pests.
- Targets and forms vary by product. The exact label governs permitted pests, sites and methods.
What is it and how does it work?
Disodium octaborate tetrahydrate is a borate salt, often abbreviated DOT. Wood-treatment products differ from general boric-acid powders and food-based insect baits. Nisus: Bora-Care product information and specimen label explains the underlying ingredient or an example product. An active ingredient is only one part of the finished formulation.
What forms and pests are covered?
Example product forms include liquid, wettable powder. Example target groups include termites, carpenter ants, wood-boring beetles. These are drawn from different labels and references, not a claim that every product treats every listed pest. Check the label for the exact species, life stage and use site.
How is it used in pest management?
Bora-Care is a liquid wood-treatment example; Tim-bor is a separate borate formulation. Uses include labeled new-construction or remedial treatments of suitable wood.
Identify the pest, correct food or moisture problems, close entry points where appropriate, and monitor the result. See our integrated pest management guide. A recurring infestation calls for reassessment, not an automatic stronger dose.
What cautions matter?
Check the product's requirements for wood condition, surface preparation and permitted sites. Protective equipment and exposure precautions remain necessary for mineral-derived chemicals.
Prevent children and pets from contacting stored or applied products. Follow the exact label for protective equipment, ventilation, return intervals, storage and disposal. Do not transfer a pesticide into a drink or food container. Read the label safety guide before selecting a product.
What are its limits?
Wood treatment is not a substitute for a termite inspection or structural repairs. Do not assume painted, sealed or inaccessible wood can be treated effectively in the same way.
The same ingredient in a garden, structural, aquatic or pet product does not make those products interchangeable. This page does not verify current Texas registration, recommend a brand or provide dilution rates, placement quantities or a treatment prescription. Manufacturer sources describe example products, not every formulation.
Where should you check before using a product?
Use the label attached to the exact product you intend to use. Confirm its target pest, permitted site and application method. Check any professional-use restrictions and applicable Texas rules. NPIC explains how to read a pesticide label. Older fact sheets remain useful background, but the current product label takes priority.
For suspected human exposure, follow the label's first-aid instructions and contact Poison Control at 800-222-1222. Call 911 for severe symptoms. For suspected pet exposure, contact a veterinarian immediately.
This field guide is educational and does not offer treatment bookings.