I've already framed 75% of my basement with standard 2x4x8 pieces (Premium kiln-dried lumber from Home Depot). Pressure-treated lumber is commonly chosen for exterior projects such as fences, but this is not a cure-all. Cut-N-Seal is not recommended to replace pressure treatment. I saw this on Google while searching for something else. Newbies and even some experienced woodworkers still find it hard to differentiate the pressure treated and the non pressure treated wood. Usually, the pressure treated lumber bears end tags or stamps that identify the … Not just any lumber will do for wood fencing. Treated Lumber. Do not use to recoat pressure treated wood surfaces. If you are in the market to replace your existing deck or build a brand new one, you will encounter 3 main types of deck material that you will have to consider using for your new deck. I’m building with pressure-treated lumber. Based on information found in section R317 beginning on page 65 of the 2012 IRC book. Wood began being pressure treated with chemicals in the early 1900’s as a means for preserving wood that is used outdoors. Yes you should use naturally durable (Redwood, cedar), or preservative-treated wood (AWPA U1 and M4) for sills or sleepers on a concrete or masonry slab that is in direct contact with the earth if you want to do it by the book (IBC 2304.11.2.4) and its also a wise idea. Before you purchase pressure-treated wood for your project, you need to keep in mind what type of project you'll be working on. The sun's ultra-violet (UV) rays cause the wood to turn gray. Do not use for pressure treated wood in ground contact applications or in preserved wood foundations. Learn when to use pressure treated lumber according to the 2012 International Residential Code. Question: I’m planning to build a pergola. Use Cut-N-Seal ® on areas that have been drilled or saw cut in treated wood deck boards, railing, post tops, fence boards, etc. That is why cedar is a popular material for outdoor projects, as is pressure-treated lumber. The drying process creates stresses in the wood, which contributes to cracking and warping. Pressure-treated wood is subject to these effects, just like other lumber. Wood swells when it absorbs moisture and shrinks when it dries out. Please tell me it is not required. For use on Above Ground treated wood products. Exposed to the elements as it is, wood fencing needs to be made of rot-resistant lumber. Note that pressure treated pine is my building material of choice but can be substituted with naturally durable heart woods from redwood, cedar, black locust, and black walnut. Lumber companies discovered that by forcing certain chemicals into their woods, they could prolong the life of the wood when exposed to wet conditions that are often present outdoors. Do I still need to stain the ends of the lumber? You want your pressure treated wood to be water-resistant for years and thus, I’d suggest applying a clear wood preservative like the Rust-Oleum Clear 902 once a year. All that you need to pay attention to is the green tint. Answer: You’re on the right track. Pressure Treated Wood Decking . I’ve heard that you’re supposed to stain the end-grain of the wood to maximize its life. The longer it stays water-resistant, the longer you won’t have to worry about mold, mildew, fungus, etc. The ratings are based on the amount of preservative used to treat the wood. MicroPro ® AC2 ® pressure-treated wood products are available for above ground (AG), ground and in-ground contact (GC), and ground contact for critical use (GCS) applications. Is "Pressure Treated" wood required for use on the bottom plate of a framed wall? The wood should also be painted or stained to better preserve it.