What pressure-treated lumber means?
Pressure-treated lumber is the result of a process that uses high pressure to inject a preservative into the wood. It’s a process that extends the longevity of the wood considerably, adding decades to the life of the material.
What’s the difference between regular and pressure treated wood?
Pressure-treated lumber is no stronger than regular wood, but it is also not any weaker. The difference between regular and pressure-treated lumber is that the treated wood has greater resistance to the elements and to pests. It, therefore, maintains its integrity not from being stronger, but from being rot resistant.
What is the difference between pressure treated and exterior 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.
Why is pressure-treated lumber better?
Pressure-treated wood is more durable than many other types of wood, better-able to resist dents, scratches, and wear. Pressure-treated wood’s extra strength gives it a long lifespan, ensuring that it will last for decades to come with proper care.
What is treated lumber called?
Pressure treated (PT) lumber is wood that has been infused with chemical preservatives to protect the wood from rot and insects. The wood is placed in a depressurized holding tank that removes the air and replaces it with a preservative.
What is the difference between pressure-treated lumber and marine lumber?
Marine plywood is specifically manufactured to stand up to the harsh marine environment. The materials used in in its construction are specifically chosen to assist in making it as water resistant as possible. Pressure treated plywood is usually regular softwood and will absorb moisture very easily.
How can you tell the difference between treated and untreated wood?
To tell if the wood is treated, check tags, stamps, and markings of chemicals used. Smelling can also help you know if wood is treated. Treated lumber can smell oily, while untreated wood doesn’t. Treated wood also has a green or brown hue from the treatment process.
How long does treated wood last?
40 years
It depends on the climate, the type of wood, its uses, and how well it’s maintained. While pressure treated poles can stay up to 40 years without any signs of rot or decay, decks and flooring might only last around 10 years.
Can you frame a house with pressure treated wood?
The simple answer is pressure-treated lumber can be used in any interior application except cutting boards and countertops. Some have also asked, after they’ve found pressure-treated lumber installed inside their homes, if there is any danger in having it indoors. The answer is no.
What is pressure treated wood and why should you use it?
Using pressure-treated wood for projects like wooden decks and fences will keep your outdoor structures beautiful for years by resisting termites, rot and fungal decay. Few homeowners really understand what pressure-treated wood is and why you should use it, though.
What are the different types of pressure-treated wood?
There are two basic types of pressure-treated wood. Individual pieces of pressure-treated lumber will have a tag on one end of the board to indicate its permitted use. Can be used in applications that are easily maintained or replaced. Can only be used in applications more than 6 inches from the ground.
How is pressure treated wood prepared for marine life?
To prepare it for harsh marine environments, wood is pressure treated with a combination of water and preservatives to keep pests away and slow the rate of decay. Different preservatives are suited for different applications and types of wood.
What is oil-borne treated lumber used for?
Oil-borne treated lumber is used for treating utility poles and cross arms. In pressure-treated wood, preservatives are infused into the wood, beyond just the surface.