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Lumber used to be pressure treated with arsenic - a lethal poison - specifically chromated copper arsenate - which turned the lumber slightly green- but legislation was passed several years ago ( 2003 ) stopping the use of arscenic and going to less toxic substances. Another copper solution called ACQ is used. The copper makes the wood more rot resistant and is toxic to some insect life. Termites would tend to favor untreated wood. While the bottom sill of balloon frame structures may be pressure treated, the framing above the bottom sill is most often not treated. It is too expensive to build structures entirely from pressure treated lumber. The best defense against termites is to keep the wooden parts of the structure well off the soil with stone or concrete foundations and keep those foundation lines clear of flower beds mulched in wood chips so as not to give termite colonies easy access.
What else can I help you with?
Which woods are both termite and rot resistant?
Redwood and Wolmanized Lumber
What is green lumber?
You might be referring to 'pressure treated' lumber, or lumber that has been milled but not dry.
Can pressure treated lumber be set in concrete?
yes it can
What is pressure treated lumber?
PT lumber is regular wood with a chemical preservative which has been forced to penetrate the wood using pressure.
How is pressure treated lumber different from regular lumber?
Pressure treated timber is timber impregnated with chromated copper arsenate under pressure and vacuum cycles. These preserve the timber from various fungicides that would normally eat the timber reducing its life-span.
Is cedar lumber ever pressure treated?
It doesn't need to be treated. It is resistant to fungus without treatment.
Which woods are both termite and rot resistant?
Redwood and Wolmanized Lumber
What are the differences between ground contact lumber and pressure treated wood?
Ground contact lumber is specifically designed to be in direct contact with the ground, making it more resistant to decay and rot. Pressure treated wood, on the other hand, is treated with chemicals under pressure to make it more durable and resistant to decay, but it may not be suitable for direct ground contact.
Does pressure treated lumber shrink over time?
Yes, pressure treated lumber may shrink over time as it dries out.
How can you determine if lumber is pressure treated?
To determine if lumber is pressure treated, look for small incisions or punctures on the surface of the wood, which indicate that chemicals have been forced into the wood under pressure. Additionally, pressure-treated lumber is typically labeled with a stamp or tag indicating that it has been treated.
What is green lumber?
You might be referring to 'pressure treated' lumber, or lumber that has been milled but not dry.
What are the best deck screws for treated lumber?
The best deck screws for treated lumber are stainless steel screws or coated deck screws specifically designed for use with treated lumber. These screws are resistant to corrosion and will provide a secure hold in the treated wood.
Can pressure treated lumber be set in concrete?
yes it can
Can you paint pressure treated lumber?
Yes, you can paint pressure treated lumber, but it is important to allow the wood to dry completely before painting and to use a primer specifically designed for pressure treated wood to ensure the paint adheres properly.
What are the benefits of using acq pressure treated lumber for outdoor construction projects?
Pressure treated lumber is beneficial for outdoor construction projects because it is resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage, making it more durable and longer-lasting than untreated wood. This type of lumber is also able to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as rain and snow, which helps to maintain the structural integrity of the project over time. Additionally, pressure treated lumber is cost-effective and widely available, making it a practical choice for outdoor construction projects.
What is pressure treated lumber?
PT lumber is regular wood with a chemical preservative which has been forced to penetrate the wood using pressure.
Pressure-treated wood contains the carcinogen?
Older pressure treated lumber known as CCA was treated with 3 substances, Chrome, Copper, and Arsenic. Newer treated lumber intended for consumer contact is now treated with different chemicals, such as copper/boron. Lumber NOT intended for consumer contact, such as buried or submerged lumber may still be CCA treated. PS- it is not a good idea to burn ANY treated lumber. If it kills bugs and fungi, it is likely not real good for you, either.
