How to Treat Treated Lumber

Properly treating lumber will give extra years to its life.

Lumber is often treated against insects and the damage associated with long exposure to moisture. The wood is placed it vats of preservatives and placed under pressure to force the preservatives deep inside. While the preservatives go several inches into the wood, they do not soak completely through. The resulting lumber will last much longer than untreated lumber, but if the wood is cut, the newly exposed surface will need further treatment to protect it from the environment.

Things You'll Need

• Water-repellent wood preservative
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Buy a water-repellent wood preservative.

2. Liberally paint the preservative on any part of the lumber that has been cut.

3. Soak wood that will be placed under ground with preservatives. Long contact with soil will cause the preservative to degrade faster and will require more care. Fill a bucket halfway with the water repellent. Place the cut end into the bucket for several minutes to allow the wood to absorb the preservative.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear gloves while painting on the preservative; the repellent is toxic and can cause chemical burns if left on exposed skin.

References

• MS State: "Treating" Treated Wood---Decks