How to Use Treated Wood

When it comes to outdoor building projects, our pressure treated lumber is extremely versatile. We have listed some ideas to help get you started, but only your imagination will discover the endless possibilities.

• Decks
• Fencing
• Railings
• Pool Areas
• Planters
• Outdoor Furniture
• Landscaping Timbers
• Retaining Walls
• Docks
• Children's Backyard Playsets
• Gazebos
• Dog Houses
• Hot Tub Decks
• Posts and Poles

You are helping to conserve our natural resources when you use pressure treated wood, due to the long term durability. This lumber will resist termites and decay longer than it takes for replacement lumber to be grown. You will also have more time to enjoy using your outdoor creations rather than spending your time repairing or replacing them.

Installation and handling tips

• Follow the old carpenter's rule: "Measure twice, cut once!"

• Do not use pressure treated wood where it may come into contact with drinking water.

  

• Be sure to dispose of treated lumber waste properly. It should be disposed of in a landfill.

• Treated wood should not be burned in open fires or in stoves, fireplaces, or residential boilers.

• Wear a dust mask and eye protection when sawing or machining treated wood.

• After working with the wood, and before eating, drinking and smoking, wash exposed areas thoroughly.

• Apply end-cut preservative to all pieces that you cut to length.

• Allow sufficient time for lumber to dry, before applying finishes such as stain.

• Use only fasteners which are galvanized, aluminum or stainless steel. Since these are corrosion-resistant, they help prevent rust stains.

You can leave treated lumber unfinished to weather naturally, or you can paint it or stain it. If you are going to apply a finish, wait long enough for the lumber to dry. Otherwise, the moisture left in the wood from the pressure-treating process will force the finish to flake off. The length of drying time will vary due to weather conditions, but with normal summertime conditions prevailing, four to six weeks should be sufficient.

Mildew growth

As a result of being constantly exposed to moist and humid conditions, even pressure-treated lumber will mildew. The result is an unsightly appearance. A preventative maintenance plan will include cleaning your treated lumber with a cleaner containing a mildewside. This will ensure that as the mold inhibitor in the lumber declines over time, your outdoor project will remain bright and attractive. The focus here is on appearance and not decay, as your pressure-treated lumber is covered by a lifetime limited warranty against termites and fungal decay in residential applications.