Is Pressure Treated Wood Better for Decks?

pressure treated deck log cabin

When it comes to building a deck, homeowners face a big decision: what material should they choose? Pressure treated wood has long been a go-to option, especially for those who love the look and feel of real wood but are working with a tight budget. It’s affordable and widely available, making it an attractive choice …

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Can You Put Composite Decking on Wooden Joists?

deck build

Yes, you can install composite decking on wooden joists, and many homeowners do just that. However, if you’re considering composite decking for its durability and low maintenance, you should also think about the longevity of your deck frame. While composite decking can last 25 to 50 years, a pressure-treated wood frame may only last 10 …

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Can You Use Pressure-Treated Lumber for a Dock?

pressure treated wood dock

If you’re considering building a dock, one of the first questions that may come to mind is whether pressure-treated lumber is a suitable material. The short answer is yes, you can use pressure-treated wood for a dock, but there are important factors to consider before making that decision. While pressure-treated lumber has long been a …

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Will Termites Eat Treated Wood?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask when building a deck, fence, or other outdoor structure is whether termites will eat treated wood. While pressure-treated wood is designed to resist decay, pests like termites can still pose a challenge under certain conditions. Here’s what you need to know. Termites and Treated Wood: What You …

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What is Pressure Treated Wood?

Pressure-treated wood is a type of lumber that has been chemically treated to resist decay, insects, and mold. The treatment process involves placing the wood into a pressure chamber where preservatives are forced deep into the fibers of the wood. This makes it much more durable and longer-lasting than untreated wood, especially in outdoor environments …

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How Long Does Pressure Treated Lumber Last?

Deck Framing

Pressure treated lumber has been a staple in building and construction for decades, known for its durability and resistance to rot, decay, and insect attack. However, recent observations and user experiences suggest that the newer pressure-treated lumber doesn’t last as long as the old Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) treated lumber. To understand why this is …

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Ipe vs Pressure Treated Pine: A Knock Out

When you see these two materials side by side, it's obvious which one is superior.
When you see these two materials side by side, it’s obvious which one is superior.

Doing a full comparison between Ipe and Pressure Treated Pine for decking is like comparing Kobe beef and a McDonald’s beef patty. Pressure treated pine works well as the frame of your decking but not as the decking itself. Pressure treated pine lasts only for about 5-10 years and must be constantly stained and finished. Ipe on the other hand, is an all-natural wood, proven to last over 75 years without any chemical treatment. The Coney Island boardwalk was in service since the 1940s! Boards from that landmark boardwalk have been reclaimed and reused for many applications from patio furniture to indoor flooring.

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