Menu Close

What is the difference between treated and pressure treated wood?

What is the difference between treated and pressure treated wood?

Is treated wood as strong as regular wood? The difference between the two is that pressure treated lumber will resist the elements better than untreated due to chemical preservatives added, and so will maintain its integrity in conditions that would cause normal wood to rot.

What does treated wood protect against?

Pressure-treated wood is wood that has been infused with chemical preservatives to protect the wood from rot and insects. The most important thing to understand about this pressure treatment is that the process is, by far, the best way to avoid harmful rot and insects, but does not prevent weathering and corrosion.

Does termites eat pressure treated wood?

Pressure-treated wood is infused with chemical preservatives to help protect the material against rotting and insects. Termites can damage pressure-treated wood. This typically happens if the wood gets damp and starts to decay, or during construction.

What wood do termites hate?

To deter the pests, homeowners can obtain heartwood-grade lumber for construction projects. Termites also tend to avoid specific species of trees such as redwoods, yellow cedar, Laotian teak, and cypress. However, these types of wood are not as long-lasting as treated lumber.

How do you protect pressure treated wood?

PRESSURE-TREATED WOOD MAINTENANCE STEPS

  1. Start by cleaning your wood with a cleaner/brightener that contains a mildewcide.
  2. Next, apply a water-repellent for surface protection.
  3. For your pressure-treated lumber to remain in tip-top shape, we suggest maintenance every 12 months.

How do you protect untreated lumber?

The only way to properly use untreated wood of any type outside is with the addition of water-repellent preservatives, sealer or paint that contain UV protection. Over-the-counter wood preservatives are available in clear versions, or with stain containing pigment or dye to color the wood.

How do you Waterproof untreated wood?

There are three surefire ways to waterproof your wood for years to come.

  1. Use linseed or Tung oil to create a beautiful and protective hand-rubbed finish.
  2. Seal the wood with coating of polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer.
  3. Finish and waterproof wood simultaneously with a stain-sealant combo.

What can you use pressure treated wood for?

Decks and fences are the most common uses for treated wood, but it is ideal for a variety of applications. Pressure-treated decking can extend the longevity of wooden walkways, freshwater docks, accessibility ramps and other outdoor structures that are exposed to the elements.

What are the different types of treated wood?

Three Categories of Pressure Treatments Waterborne treated lumber is generally used in building structures that are residential, commercial and industrial. Creosote-treated lumber is mostly used for treating guardrail posts, railroad ties, and timbers used in marine structures.

What kind of wood is used for construction?

1 Waterborne treated lumber is generally used in building structures that are residential, commercial and industrial. 2 Creosote-treated lumber is mostly used for treating guardrail posts, railroad ties, and timbers used in marine… 3 Oil-borne treated lumber is used for treating utility poles and cross arms. More …

When to use non treated lumber and when to avoid it?

Any location where pets and kids spend time regularly should be built with non-treated wood. This includes play sets, decks, raised beds in gardens, and more. Using a naturally rot-resistant wood, like cedar is a better compromise that is potentially putting your loved ones at risk for serious health problems.