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Is T2 treated timber standard?

It's increasingly standard in many volume builder contracts, particularly in Queensland. However, it is not always included in base prices — confirm with your builder.

What is the difference between T2 and H2 treated timber?

T2 is a treatment level under one classification standard, while H2 is a hazard class under a different (but related) standard. Both describe treated timber suitable for in-ground and above-ground applications respectively. Your builder should confirm which treatment their frames use.

Does T2 treatment replace termite barriers?

No. T2 timber treatment reduces the risk of termite attack on the frame itself but is not a substitute for a full termite management system. A chemical or physical termite barrier should still be installed.

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Home›Build Knowledge Hub›Building Process›Frame & Structure›T2 Treated Timber vs Standard Timber Frame

Frame & Structure

T2 Treated Timber vs Standard Timber Frame

Compare T2 treated timber against untreated standard framing — what the difference means for termite protection, durability and your building contract.

5 min·Compare My Build — Independent Resource· Updated June 2025

Introduction

The timber framing in your new home can be either standard (T1 / untreated for termites) or T2 treated, which has been impregnated with preservatives to resist borer and termite attack above ground. For buyers in Queensland and other termite-prone regions, this distinction matters for long-term protection.

Key Differences

Feature	Standard Timber (T1)	T2 Treated Timber
Treatment	None or basic borer only	Treated to AS 1604 H2/T2 level
Termite resistance	Low	Moderate (above-ground)
Borer resistance	Low	Moderate to high
Cost difference	—	Minimal (~$500–$1,500 extra)
Requirement in termite zones	Not always required	Recommended, often required
Standard inclusion	Some builders	Many QLD volume builders

Pros and Cons

Pros

+ T2 provides additional protection for minimal extra cost
+ Widely available — most major suppliers stock T2 framing
+ Provides peace of mind in termite-prone regions
+ Often mandated by councils in high-risk termite areas

Cons

− T2 alone is not sufficient — termite management system still required
− Some builders use standard timber and rely solely on chemical barriers
− Cost savings from standard timber are minimal vs the protection benefit

Cost Comparison

Standard timber frame (T1)Included

T2 treated timber frame upgrade$500 – $1,500

H2 treated timber (equivalent)$500 – $1,500

T2/H2 treatment is one of the most cost-effective protection upgrades available — the cost is low relative to the long-term benefit.

Common Builder Inclusions

›Many QLD volume builders include T2 or H2 treated framing as standard
›Always confirm in your contract — 'timber framing' alone does not specify treatment level
›Ask your builder to confirm: 'Do the wall and roof frames have T2/H2 treatment throughout?'