What is the function of borate treatments in pest control?

Borate treatments serve as a protective measure for wood by preventing damage from wood-destroying pests such as termites and wood-boring beetles, as well as inhibiting fungal decay. Borates are a group of naturally occurring minerals that are effective in controlling these organisms. When applied to wood, borate chemicals are absorbed and can help create a barrier that deters pest infestation and decay processes, extending the lifespan of the wood.

While the other options present various characteristics of wood, they do not align with the primary purpose of borate treatments. Enhancing aesthetic appeal is not a benefit of borate; rather, the treatment is focused on preservation and protection. Additionally, borate treatments do not significantly improve insulation properties or increase moisture retention in wood. Instead, their primary role is clearly to safeguard wood from pest and decay damage, making the correct answer an essential aspect of structural pest control in preventing costly repairs and maintaining structural integrity.