How to Use Treated Lumber
Treated lumber will create a durable structure that is resistant to weather, rotting and insects. Decks, porches, swing sets, sheds and picnic tables are routinely constructed of treated lumber. This type of wood will last 40 years or more. Untreated wood has an average lifespan of three to seven years. Still, because treated wood is infused with toxic chemicals, it needs to be handled with caution. It is not suitable for all types of building projects. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Urethane, shellac, latex epoxy enamel or varnish
- Epoxy
- Heavy-duty plastic
- Power drill
- Fasteners
Instructions
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Use lumber that has been treated with pentachlorophenol to build any structures that will have frequent or prolonged contact with the skin, and you'll need to sealant. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), lumber that has been treated with pentachlorophenol should be sealed with two coats of urethane, shellac, latex epoxy enamel or varnish. The sealer will need to be re-applied every two years. Lawn furniture, sundecks and picnic tables may be examples.
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Build structures with wood that has been treated with creosote, that will have frequent or prolonged contact with the skin, and you'll need to seal them as well. The EPA recommends using urethane, epoxy or shellac on creosote wood. Again, the sealer will need to be re-applied every two years. Handrails, benches and boardwalks may be examples.
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Use treated wood to build sturdy decks that will last for years to come. However, because it shrinks, you should not leave spaces between the boards in the floor. As time passes and the treated wood shrinks, any spaces will become larger.
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Erect borders and fences around flower beds by using treated lumber. Make raised flower beds with this wood. To prevent the toxic chemicals in the wood from leaching into the soil, line raised beds with heavy-duty plastic first. Then, fill them with soil. Seal all exposed surfaces of the treated wood with a quality sealer to protect the skin.
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Drill holes in treated wood for fasteners within 1 inch of the end of each board. Whether you use nails or screws to fasten the ends of treated wood into place, you'll need to predrill holes so that the wood doesn't split.
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Tips & Warnings
Paint won't adhere to treated lumber. Seal it, but don't try to paint it.
Do not use pressure-treated wood for making cutting boards, or for any food preparation surface. Use treated wood only in outdoor building projects. Don't use treated wood indoors.
