Pressure-treated lumber – or “PT” for short – is an excellent building material for most outdoor projects requiring ground contact or longevity through the outdoor elements. It is chemically treated with a copper-based solution that helps to deter mold, bacteria, and insect infestations, which means that it’ll last longer and stay in better shape. However, there are some special considerations to keep in mind when working with pressure-treated lumber. Here are three simple tips to help you safely and successfully use pressure-treated wood:
- Always Use Protective Equipment. Although pressure-treated lumber is safe to use in construction and building, the chemicals used to treat it can be harmful. Always use gloves, eye protection, breathing masks, and other protective gear to ensure that you don’t come into too much contact with the lumber’s copper treatment. In addition, keep lumber away from children, pets, food, water, and other potentially sensitive items.
- Cut Pressure-Treated Lumber Outdoors. Because pressure-treated lumber is saturated in a copper coating, it can easily spread this chemical through air-borne sawdust. Never cut pressure-treated lumber in an enclosed location—the better ventilated the area, the safer you’ll be.
- Never Burn Pressure-Treated lumber. Fumes produced while burning pressure-treated lumber can be harmful to you and the environment and therefore should never be burned.
- Use Hot-Dipped Nails and Screws. The copper coating used to protect pressure-treated lumber not only resists to insects and mold—it will also eat through standard nails and screws causing your hardware to corrode and fail. That’s why it’s important to only use hot-dipped galvanized (HDG) or stainless steel nails, screws, fasteners, and bolts, when working with pressure-treated lumber, as these materials are resistant to corrosion.
To learn more about pressure-treated lumber, contact the experts at J & W Lumber. We carry an excellent selection of pressure-treated wood that is perfect for decking, patio covers, and fencing. Call (760) 741-8776 to learn more about our lumber selection.