Timber durability: Which timber species offers the highest natural resistance against white ants (termites)?

Introduction / Context:
Natural durability of timber influences maintenance cycles, chemical treatment needs, and lifecycle cost. Resistance to biological agents like termites is especially important in warm, humid climates and in ground-contact applications.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Comparison is among commonly used Indian subcontinent timbers.
• “Maximum resistance” refers to untreated, natural durability.
• Service conditions are typical building works, not marine borers or extreme exposures.

Concept / Approach:
Teak possesses natural oils and extractives that deter termites and decay, giving it a superior durability class. Sal and shisham are durable and strong but generally considered less termite-resistant than teak in many references. Chir (a softwood) is more susceptible unless treated.

Step-by-Step Solution:
List species and typical durability rankings.Identify teak’s natural oils/extractives → excellent termite resistance.Compare others: sal and shisham are durable but usually not as termite-resistant as teak; chir is comparatively poor.Choose teak as the most resistant.

Verification / Alternative check:
Field performance and standards frequently list teak in higher durability classes with proven termite resistance.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Chir: softwood with lower natural durability.Sal/Shisham: strong and durable but typically below teak’s termite resistance.Deodar: aromatic but not typically superior to teak for termite resistance.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming strength equals termite resistance; durability depends on extractives and anatomy, not just density.

Final Answer:
Teak (Tectona grandis)