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02, Nov 2024 -

Builder tips for using pressure treated wood

Builder tips for using pressure treated wood

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Pressure treated wood has long been a staple for outdoor projects due to the enhanced durability and warm aesthetic it provides. Offering a variety of benefits, pressure treated wood is an ideal choice for a wide range of outdoor projects such as, decking, pergolas, fences and garden beds. As is the case with any building material, longevity of a product often relies on the proper design, specification, and installation of the building material. With the warmer weather upon us, builders and DIY-ers are anxious to begin their projects to enhance their outdoor living space. Let’s explore some building tips and key advantages that make pressure treated wood a preferred material for builders and DIY enthusiasts alike.

What is pressure treated wood?
Pressure treated wood undergoes a process where preservatives are forced into the wood under high pressure, enhancing the wood’s longevity by increasing its ability to withstand fungal decay (rot) and termites. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor projects where exposure to the elements is a concern.

Ensuring strong, lasting construction
The following builder tips will ensure the longevity of your outdoor pressure treated wood projects:

  • Proper fasteners: Use corrosion-resistant fasteners such as hot-dipped galvanized or stainless-steel nails, screws and connectors, in accordance with ASTM A153. Ensure that exterior fasteners are used in outdoor applications.
  • Proper connection design: Avoid inserting vertical fasteners through the top of the wood, or anywhere that moisture can accumulate and be trapped.
  • Protecting cut ends: Apply an end-cut treatment to all cut ends or drilled holes of the wood to protect exposed untreated wood.
  • Spacing: Butt damp deck boards together as they can be expected to shrink slightly in width as they dry. If deck boards are dry before installation, leave adequate spacing between boards to allow for expansion and contraction.
  • Seasonal maintenance routines: Extend the lifespan of pressure treated wood structures with regular maintenance, inspect for signs of wear or damage and clean surfaces with a diluted mild detergent to remove any dirt or mildew.
  • Staining, sealing, and coatings: Enhance durability and aesthetics by applying a high-quality wood stain to dry wood. The stain will provide UV protection and repel water. A water-repellent sealer will protect the wood from moisture. When applying coatings, begin by applying a primer designed for use on pressure treated wood and follow this step with a high-quality exterior paint.

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Durability
One of the most significant benefits of pressure treated wood is its exceptional durability. The treatment process involves infusing the wood with preservatives under high pressure, which makes it highly resistant to fungal decay (rot) and termites. This increased resilience and longevity makes it an excellent choice for outdoor projects where exposure to the elements will occur.

Cost-effectiveness
Pressure treated wood is more affordable than other weather-resistant materials like composite decking or naturally rot-resistant woods such as cedar and redwood. Combined with its long lifespan, this makes it a cost-effective option for outdoor projects. Builders and homeowners can achieve high-quality, durable structures without exceeding their budgets.

Versatility in applications
The versatility of pressure treated wood is another major advantage. It can be used for a wide range of outdoor projects, including:

  • Decking: Provides a sturdy, long-lasting surface for outdoor living spaces.
  • Fencing: Offers a durable and cost-effective solution for property boundaries and privacy screens.
  • Pergolas and gazebos: Creates beautiful and functional outdoor structures that can withstand the elements.
  • Garden beds: Resistant to rot and termite damage, making it ideal for raised garden beds that are in constant contact with soil and moisture.

Enhanced aesthetics
Pressure treated wood can be stained or painted to match any outdoor décor, enhancing the beauty of your project. With a variety of finishes available, homeowners can customize their outdoor spaces to reflect their personal style.

Ease of use
Working with pressure treated wood is straightforward, making it a popular choice for both professional builders and DIY enthusiasts. It can be cut, drilled, and fastened just like untreated wood, allowing for easy customization and installation. Additionally, it is available in a wide range of sizes, making it suitable for projects of any scale.

  • Safety is always paramount: When working with pressure treated wood, wear gloves, safety goggles and a dust mask when cutting and sawing wood. Machining operations should be performed outdoors whenever possible to reduce sawdust inhalation. All sawdust and debris should be cleaned-up and disposed of after construction.

Environmental benefits
Preserving the wood further extends the service life of the product, therefore allowing a mature tree to grow in the forest and thereby conserving natural resources.

DID YOU KNOW? All treating plants in Canada are certified under the Canadian Wood Preservation Certification Authority (CWPCA) Program. This program is unique to Canada and guarantees that certified facilities meet the standards outlined in Environment Canada’s Technical Recommendations Document by upholding environmentally responsible standards in their design and operation.

Low maintenance requirements
Pressure treated wood requires relatively low maintenance. Regular cleaning and occasional sealing or staining are typically all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. This ease of maintenance allows homeowners to enjoy their outdoor spaces without the burden of constant upkeep.

Pressure treated wood remains a premier choice for outdoor projects due to its unmatched durability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility. Its ability to withstand the elements while offering aesthetic flexibility and ease of use makes it an invaluable material for a wide range of outdoor applications. Whether building a new deck, fence, or constructing garden beds, pressure treated wood provides a reliable and long-lasting solution that enhances the functionality and beauty of outdoor spaces.

To learn more about the Canadian pressure treated wood industry, visit woodpreservation.ca.

Source: Canadian Forest Industries

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