Fungi cause chemical and physical changes that cause wood to lose its properties. They decompose the cell walls, reduce the strength of the wood, change its shape and impair the dimensional stability of the cells. In addition to cellulose, fungi also feed on lignin, hemicellulose, and other substances. The efficiency of wood decomposition largely depends on the type of fungus and wood. Fungi often pose a threat to the living environment, affecting safety and quality of life. Modern timber construction is based on wood composites, and such buildings are exposed to water penetration and the development of wood decay. Decay weakens the mechanical properties of the wood, and sometimes it is not possible to replace the installed wood. Therefore, we want to explore the idea of preventing the spread of fungi by using boron-based biocides that diffuse well through the wood cross-section. The methods include conditioning the wood in a climate above a saturated aqueous solution of NaCl, the use of distilled water and immersing the wood, and injecting a combination of boron salts with glycerol for enhanced protection. The results showed that boron compounds provide long-term protection with minimal impact on the environment, confirming their suitability for wide application under different conditions. It is therefore important to use effective wood protection methods in timber construction that prevent the spread of fungi and thus maintain the mechanical properties of the wood and extend its service life.
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