Table of Contents
Pressure-treated wood is often used for exterior framing because it doesn’t rot or warp. Can you use pressure-treated wood for interior framing? The answer to that question depends on the location of your home and what type of treatment was applied to the lumber before it was made into boards.
Pressure-treated wood is usually identified on the label with an abbreviation such as “PT” or “CCA.” The letters in those abbreviations represent the type of timber; for example, a “C” indicates cedar and a “PT” reflects that the board was manufactured from Penta-treated lumber.
Yes. pressure-treated wood may be used for interior framing. Where the frame contacts the foundation, it’s useful. It protects the basement from rats and fungus and mold damage. Treated wood, on the other hand, contains potentially hazardous chemicals. As a result, avoid using it on your kitchen worktops or cutting boards.
Most people in the United States are familiar with termites and rot, insects that can damage buildings over time if not kept away from exposed timbers produced without treatment. When left outside all year, some types of therapy may leach chemicals into the surrounding soil, which has caused worry among homeowners who reside near building sites where this sort of product is frequently used.
RELATED: Can You Use Pressure Treated Wood for Wall Studs? Professional Advice
Why Not Put Pressure Treated Wood in Your Home?
Pressure-treated wood isn’t a good choice for indoor projects since it includes chemicals like creosote. You may not detect an issue until I inform you that creosote contains cresols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and cresols.
Pressure-treated wood, like any other type of wood, can leach chemicals that cause health issues ranging from eye irritation to cancer. Furthermore, the treated timber may contain diluted poison, so if you come into direct contact with it, the poison might seep through your pores. As a result, pressure-treated wood for home construction is best avoided.
Also, food in the vicinity of treated wood is a worry. For example, if you use a pressure-treated cutting board, the chemicals may get into your meal and result in serious gastrointestinal issues.
Treated wood is highly combustible due to the chemicals used in its preparation. As a result, even if the wood is utilized indoors, a little fire may quickly grow out of hand once it reaches treated wood.
Is it Okay to Use Pressure-Treated Plywood as a Subfloor?
No, it isn’t. Pressure-treated wood may be used as a subfloor provided that you cover it with another product such as plywood. Although this procedure is feasible, it isn’t advisable because the chemicals in treated wood can seep into the soil.
Fortunately, waterproof glue, a higher crush rating, and no voids in the lams can be used with ACX Underlayment ply.
Can You Use Pressure-Treated Wood for Outdoor Projects?
Yes, you may use pressure-treated lumber to build decks and other outdoor projects as long as you keep them far away from your home’s foundation where they might leach.
Is Pressure-Treated Lumber Dangerous?
Pressure-treated lumber is safe for use as long as you don’t come into direct contact with it or allow your children to play on surfaces made of pressure-treated wood. If the treated wood contains hexavalent chromium, which may be present in older projects, this substance can cause serious health issues such as cancer and birth defects.
Is It Possible to Get Sick From Pressure-Treated Wood?
Yes, it is. If the treated wood contains hexavalent chromium which can leach from older projects or if you touch it directly before washing your hands thoroughly.
Pressure-treated wood dust causes an incurable irritation to the bronchial tubes, prompting upper respiratory tract infection, asthma, and persistent colds in susceptible individuals. Bronchitis may also develop into chronic despite efforts to reduce dust exposure. As a result, it is preferable not to have any contact at all.
Nausea, a sore throat, vomiting, lung irritation, and low red and white blood cell counts are all common signs of poisoning by pressure-treated wood’s toxic components. It also causes the aforementioned cancers; lung cancer, prostate cancer, skin cancer, kidney cancer, and liver disease.
Can You Use Pressure Treated Wood for a Raised Garden Bed?
No, pressure-treated lumber isn’t safe to use inside a growing area because its chemical treatment may seep into the soil and harm plants.
However, even though untreated lumber may be used indoors without any damage to people or pets in addition to being less expensive than pressure-treated wood, it also includes disadvantages like rot over time when exposed to moisture and insects that eat through them within months instead of years as with pressure treating chemicals in outdoor uses on decks and other surfaces exposed to harsh weather conditions, etc
Is it possible to put pressure-treated wood directly on concrete?
No, you should never put pressure-treated wood directly on the concrete because the chemicals in treated lumber can leach into the soil.
Can You Use Pressure-Treated Wood For Floor Joists?
Yes, you may use pressure-treated lumber for the floor except when it comes into direct contact with soil.
How Do You Use Pressure-Treated Wood Indoors?
You may use pressure-treated lumber indoors provided that you cover it with another material such as plywood and you may need to have protective gears on whenever you are using pressure-treated wood. Although this procedure is feasible, it isn’t advisable because the chemicals in treated wood can seep into the soil.
However, we mustn’t overlook the numerous advantages of treated wood in other interior applications. Pressure-treated wood, for example, aids in the balance of your foundation if your frames contact the ground or concrete. It’s insect resistant, so it provides a solid foundation.
Another thing to remember is that the wood must not be exposed to a lot of moisture. Although pressure-treated wood is resistant to insects and decay, it is susceptible to dampness. As a result, it would be best to treat it as any other wood and keep it away from dampness.
How Long Do Chemicals Stay In Pressure Treated Wood?
For 20 years after the treatment, arsenic levels in treated wood were still elevated, according to researchers. This conclusion is derived from ‘wipe tests’ on s63 decks, picnic tables, sandboxes, and playsets produced in 45 states.
How Do You Treat Pressure Treated Wood After Cutting?
There are a few things to consider once you’ve trimmed pressure-treated wood. One of them is sealing the wood, which imparts water-resistance characteristics.
Also, if you’re applying treated wood into the ground, ensuring that the sealed end is maintained is critical. So, after you’ve chopped your lumber into fence posts, it would be beneficial if you sealed it.
If the pressure-treated wood is not properly sealed, it will fade, warp, and discolor over time.
However, the sealant on treated wood only works if it has had ample time to dry. Wet wood swells and contracts repeatedly, causing checks, fractures, cracks, and splinters. As a result, be patient and wait for the wood to dry out.
You should avoid getting sawdust in your eyes, nose, and mouth by wearing safety glasses, a dust mask, or a respirator.
What Happens If You Inhale Smoke From Pressure Treated Wood?
Smoke from pressure-treated wood contains chemicals that are harmful when inhaled. Exposure to this smoke in its concentrated form can cause respiratory problems, and it has even been known to lead to lung cancer as well as other types of cancers like prostate cancer, skin cancer, and kidney.
If you have pressure-treated wood at home, make sure every bedroom and other living space has a smoke alarm. Take care of the detectors’ batteries as well every year to ensure that they remain functional.
Treated wood is also more combustible than ordinary wood. As a result, do not leave space heaters, cigarettes, or burning candles unsupervised.
How Long Will Pressure Treated Lumber Last With Ground Contact?
Pressure-treated wood has a life of around 40 years if properly maintained. It is dependent on the climate, how you utilize the timber and the type of wood. If you do everything correctly, pressure-treated wood should last you 40 years or more without showing any deterioration or rot symptoms.
Finally, by applying water-repellent sealers every year, you may extend their life. Also, mildewcide products can assist you in removing any mildew that may have developed on the wood.
When Did They Stop Putting Arsenic in Pressure Treated Wood?
In 2004, the [Environmental Protection Agency](EPA) announced that it would no longer allow arsenic to be used in pressure-treated wood. This decision was made after studies showed how dangerous and poisonous arsenic-treated lumber can be for people living around construction sites or those who use treated wood.
However, even though this is true nowadays, there are still a lot of structures constructed out of arsenic-riddled woods that date back to 2003. Some houses were even constructed with arsenical contaminated material between September 13th and December 31st, 2009 due to an EPA exemption granted on September 13th, 2009
Can You Burn Old Pressure Treated Wood?
Using pressure-treated wood that has been exposed to the elements for a long time can create hazardous fumes and byproducts. When burned, treated materials produce arsenic, chromium (hexavalent), copper compounds, creosote, and other pollutants in their smoke
If you’re building a fire pit or fireplace with old lumber or an outside bonfire make sure there are no tar spots on your boards as these will catch fire faster than the rest of it is burning.
Treated wood also has the potential to become airborne, as it comprises three main components. They will wind up in the ash and are readily leachable to groundwater. This condition raises a slew of environmental issues.
Fortunately, if you don’t want to reuse the treated wood, it is lawful to dump it in a landfill.
Is It Necessary to Seal Pressure Treated Wood?
For exterior uses, it is not necessary to seal pressure-treated wood. However, if you are using the lumber for interior purposes (a deck or a play set), then applying water repellent/sealer will be essential in preventing stains and preserving your home’s appearance.
If you’re building an outdoor structure that will lie exposed to rain showers most of the year like decks and fences, sealing treated woods with oil-based products may help prevent warping and cracking over time. As a result, consider the following sealants to keep the wood safe and livable for an extended period.
1. Ready Seal Stain and Sealer for Wood
The name of the product is a generic term for people who want stain and sealer advantages in one package. As a result, they save time and money by not having to use wood treatment as they did previously.
It also protects the wood from UV rays and any extra moisture in the air. It may also be applied without a primer, and it includes a broad color palette to assist you in achieving the perfect hue for your timber.
2. Thompson Waterseal Clear Waterproof Wood Protector
This wood treatment product is made from a natural blend of petroleum and pine oils. It protects the wood against water, dust, dirt as well as decay that may result from fungi or insects.
The wood’s original color is preserved by this mix by preventing external factors such as graying, fading, and darkening. It also protects the timber from water exposure that would otherwise cause it to decay faster.
That’s not all; the product gives a protective layer against mildew and UV damage, which helps to maintain the redwood hue for a long time. It’s also an environmentally friendly sealant that is safe to use.
3. Exterior Wood Stain & Sealer (UV) with Water Repellent
The UV in its name stands for ultraviolet rays which are the main reason for your wood’s fading. The product is made with a three-in-one formula that protects against mildew and water damage while preserving the color of your timber by blocking harmful UV rays from penetrating the surface
It also contains glycol ethers to help it bond better on vertical surfaces like wood siding and fence posts.
4. Cabot Australian Timber Oil
This wood sealant is a blend of natural oils and waxes. It penetrates deep into the timber to provide superior protection against water, mildew, insects, fungi as well as UV rays that can cause your home’s exterior look to fade over time.
On the other hand, it’s a long-lasting finish that enhances the natural beauty of your outdoor structures, such as fences and decks, while also protecting them against weather elements.
The product is highly durable, and it aims to stand up against rain showers as well as harsh sunlight for optimal
Also, you don’t have to worry about negative UV ray effects because the oil has translucent iron oxide pigments.
5. Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Water Based Deck Stain
The matte stain has a damp wood matte effect that works on wet wood, which makes it fascinating. As a result, you may utilize it straight after cleaning and brightening the timber. It also prevents the surface from peeling, discoloring, and fading, ensuring that it retains its appeal for years to come.
The #1 Deck Premium protects the wood from external elements like UV rays and excessive dampness, keeping it safe. However, regular maintenance treatments for hardwoods are recommended.
6. DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain
The zink nano-practice technology in this exterior wood stain helps to prevent the wood from fading or graying. As a result, the wood has a gorgeous semi-transparent sheen. This solution may also be used to preserve a variety of hardwoods, including outdoor furniture, players, siding, arbors, and fences.
To preserve the stain properly, you don’t need any prior knowledge. Simply use the suggested brightener to brighten the wood surface. Then, apply one layer of the mixture.
In addition, the product comes in a variety of colors, allowing you to find the best one for your project.
However, you must follow the proper sealing technique. So, before we go any further, let me offer you some pointers to get you started.
- Check the surface of the wood for wetness before sealing; bare wood should be dry before applying sealer. To ensure that you have adequate moisture levels, use a moisture meter instead.
- Prepare the wood for staining using a professional topcoat. You may also use a shellac-based primer since it provides excellent results. It has no odor and leaves little residue when applied.
- A sealer prevents bleeding through the final or finish layer and keeps wood from growing knots. However, if the stain has knots, you don’t need to use a primer.
- Consider using a nest treatment to get rid of all the oozing sap, especially if you work with fir or pine. Then apply the primer or sealer.
- Use a professional wood filler to fill all of the cracks or holes on the timber’s surface. Also, seal the crack with a high-grade filler to prevent it from closing.
- It’s important to sand in the grain direction since any movements will result in numerous surface scratches.
- During the sealing process, use a clean brush to move it swiftly and evenly. Make sure the solution covers the surface properly, particularly end grains, as well.
- Allow the sealer to dry for one to two hours, then sand the surface.
- After you’ve finished applying the first layer, check the results and apply a second coat if necessary. Some woods require more than one application to obtain a good finish.
We offer a large selection of pressure-treated wood sealers, so having an understanding of the process will be useful. Then let’s have a look at some of the most important elements to consider before purchasing a formula.
The Type of Wood
It’s crucial to consider the sort of wood you want to cover when selecting a treatment. Some are suited for softwoods, while others are designed for hardwoods. As a result, once you’ve figured out the wood, you can pick an ideal solution. Various wood protectors also have varying curing periods. As a result, you must select a
Application
The technique you use to apply the stain or sealer is important, and it’s based on the product you pick. We have products that work well with brushes and others that are best sprayed.
Type of Sealer or Stain
We also have a variety of water and oil-based stains that are useful in different ways. Water-based stains, for example, are non-flammable while oil-based solutions offer better wood protection since they contain special oils.
Desired Finish
The results will also influence the stain you choose. As a result, if you want to preserve the wood’s natural color, go for a semi-transparent or translucent solution. If you want a more protective coat on the wood, consider layering it multiple times. The thicker the layer of finish, generally, the better.
Environmentally Friendly
We must keep our surroundings safe from hazardous or toxic gases and chemicals. As a result, even while you shop for a stain or sealer, it would be wise to get one that does not contribute to health risks. Examine the package of the product for VOC levels, as most producers disclose in the recipe.
User-friendliness
When it comes to sealers, choose ones that you can simply apply with a brush, pad, or sprayer. Also, look for one that has no or little odor and one that you may remove if you make a mistake. You will also like working with a formula that is simple to comprehend. Some formulas include several requirements that might be difficult
Durability
One of the most common reasons for purchasing stain or sealer is because it is durable. As a result, it should be given serious consideration. Make sure that it meets high standards and can endure at least two to three years.
Furthermore, purchasing a product with a three-to-ten-year guarantee is recommended.
What Type of Saw Blade is Best for Cutting Pressure Treated Wood?
Wood that has been treated is often fibrous, wet, and corrosive. As a result, make sure to use a circular saw to cut it. Additionally, the blade should have wide, deep gullets and widely separated carbide teeth to prevent clogs.
Also, check the saw for the paint to keep the metal from corroding and sticking in the kerf.
We also have a general-purpose wood saw blade. It’s excellent for cutting plywood, pine, beams, oak, and pressure-treated wood. The saw leaves a smooth cut with minimal blade changing after each operation.
What Happens When You Cut Pressure Treated Wood?
When pressure-treated wood is cut, the most common issue that occurs is corrosion.
As a result, you should use a saw with an anti-rust coating to prevent damage and keep your tools in prime condition for subsequent uses. Afterward, let’s look at some of the other possible problems when cutting this type of wood.
It Splinters
Pressure-treated wood is likely to splinter when you cut it. To prevent this, use a blade that is suitable for the task and has sharp teeth. Also, consider using an alternate cutting method such as routing or breaking down large pieces with a chainsaw first before making smaller cuts with your circular saw.
It Corrodes
When you cut pressure-treated wood, it will corrode the blade of your saw and lead to rusting. As a result, always use a protective coating on all blades that are used for cutting treated lumber. In addition to preventing corrosion, this also helps protect against heat buildup from friction.
It Deforms and Warps
A common issue that arises when cutting pressure-treated wood is its deforming or warping.
To prevent this, purchase a blade that is specifically designed for cutting pressure-treated wood and can minimize the effects of heat buildup.
During a pressure-treated wood cutting session, you create sawdust. Isn’t it self-evident that this is the case with any wood? That being said, treated sawdust isn’t healthy to breathe. As a result, whenever you cut pressure-treated timber, always wear gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a standard circular saw blade to cut pressure-treated wood?
A: No, you need a blade that is designed specifically for cutting pressure-treated wood. These blades have deep gullets and wide carbide teeth to prevent clogging and minimize heat buildup.
Q: What happens if I don’t use the right blade when cutting pressure-treated wood?
A: If you use the wrong blade, the saw will become clogged, and the wood will deform or warp. Also, the blade will corrode, and the saw will rust.
Q: Do I need to wear a dust mask when cutting pressure-treated wood?
A: Yes, it’s essential to wear a dust mask because pressure-treated wood produces sawdust that is harmful to breathe. As you can see, there are several things to consider before cutting pressure-treated wood. By following the tips in this guide, you can avoid making mistakes and ensure a smooth, successful experience.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are several things to consider before cutting pressure-treated wood. By following the tips in this guide, you can avoid making mistakes and ensure a smooth, successful experience.
If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences with cutting pressure-treated wood, feel free to leave a comment below.
Reference: WikiHow
