How does the table’s construction impact its resistance to termites or other wood-boring insects?

The construction of a wooden table significantly influences its vulnerability to termites and other wood-boring insects through multiple critical factors. The primary defense begins with wood selection itself. Naturally resistant hardwoods like teak, cedar, and white oak contain inherent oils and compounds that repel insects, while softer woods like pine require additional protection. Beyond material choice, construction techniques play an equally vital role. Tight, precision-cut joinery—such as dovetail or mortise-and-tenon joints—minimizes gaps where moisture can accumulate and insects can enter. Loose joints create ideal entry points and harbor moisture that attracts pests.

The surface treatment and finishing method create another crucial barrier. Tables with multiple sealed coats of polyurethane, lacquer, or specialized wood preservatives form an impenetrable shield that prevents insects from detecting the wood beneath. Conversely, unfinished or poorly sealed tables emit wood aromas that attract insects and offer easy access. The physical design also contributes to resistance. Tables with raised feet or metal bases that elevate wood from direct ground contact reduce exposure to soil-dwelling termites. Designs that avoid complex, hard-to-seal crevices and incorporate metal hardware or barriers at critical points further enhance protection.

Furthermore, construction quality determines long-term resilience. Solid wood tables can be refinished to renew protective layers, whereas veneered tables risk irreversible damage if the thin surface layer is compromised. The integration of pressure-treated wood in structural components or the use of insect-resistant adhesives during assembly provides additional defense. Ultimately, a table's insect resistance isn't a single feature but a system—combining dense wood selection, precise joinery that eliminates entry points, comprehensive sealing that blocks insect attraction, and intelligent design that minimizes ground contact and moisture retention. This multi-layered approach to construction creates furniture that can withstand decades of potential insect threats.