When To Use Pressure Treated Lumber

Are you gearing up for a home improvement or DIY project that uses lumber? Choosing the correct lumber for your project is an important part of getting the job done right. Lumber either comes pressure treated lumber or is non treated. The benefits of choosing pressure treated lumber includes a longer life span due to resistance to rotting and insects, but this does not mean that it is a one size fits all choice.

Not sure which choice is the right choice for your project? Don’t worry! The team at Wright Building Center is here to help you decide what is best for you.

Moisture Contact

If lumber is going to be used in a situation where the wood will be in direct contact with a moisture source, pressure treated lumber should be used. What does this mean? Well, in short, this means that if the wood is buried underground or in contact with masonry.

Contact with People or Pets

If your lumber is going to be touched, it is best that you use non-pressure treated lumber. While treated lumber keeps out moisture, the chemicals that it is treated with are harmful to humans and animals. When inside the home or on an outdoor surface that will have lots of contact with people, it is important to use non-pressure treated wood.

However, if pressure treated wood is needed for a project such as building a deck that will be exposed to a lot of moisture, there is an option that can ease some of the risks. Using an oil based sealant is a great protective measure to take. These sealants prevent the harmful compounds from reaching the surface. 

So, ready to purchase your lumber and get your project started? Come to Wright Building Center in Murphysboro or Sparta to get everything you need.