What happens if you don't seal pressure treated wood?

However, most pressure-treated wood should have periodic sealing against moisture, preferably every year or so. Although the wood is resistant to rot and insect attacks because of the pressure treatment, it can warp, split and develop mildew if not protected from the effects of water.

baltimoresun.com - Decks made of pressure-treated wood should be sealed annually

Are ramps cheaper than stairs?

Staircases are considered the most economical choice when creating access to a raised area of a home.

Last updated Oct 8, 2020

How much land do you need to build a Barndominium?

Overall, the average space you'll need to build your Barndominium is 8,600 square feet. This might slightly increase or decrease depending on your...

Last updated Sep 26, 2019

Promotion

Q: I have a deck built of pressure-treated lumber that absorbs rainwater like a blotter. What kind of product do you recommend to seal it? I am told that some sealers do more harm than good?

A: Some owners of pressure-treated structures assume the wood needs no protective treatment, and this view at one time was encouraged by manufacturers of the wood. However, most pressure-treated wood should have periodic sealing against moisture, preferably every year or so. Although the wood is resistant to rot and insect attacks because of the pressure treatment, it can warp, split and develop mildew if not protected from the effects of water. Generally, the water protection should be started soon after construction, although some new, premium grades of pressure-treated wood are sold with a built-in water sealer that lasts a couple of years (Wolmanized Extra is an example). Wolman RainCoat, made by one of the big names in pressure-treating, is a widely sold water repellent that is a good choice for use on pressure-treated wood, although it can also be used on other types of wood. RainCoat is available in clear and "natural toner" formulas. The latter colors the wood slightly. The manufacturer says RainCoat can be applied to wood immediately after construction; a waiting period of several months is needed for some sealers.

For more information on RainCoat, call (800) 556-7737.

However, most of the water-repellent sealers sold at home centers, paint stores and lumber yards are suitable for pressure-treated wood as well as other outdoor woods such as cedar and redwood. The directions for some, such as Thompson's Water Seal, specify pressure-treated wood as a suitable use.

Q: For the past several years I've observed carpenter ants in my house, especially in the kitchen. How can I control these ants before they cause damage to the house?

A: Carpenter ants are generally attracted to moist, rotting wood, which they use for nesting, not food. There is a good chance that a plumbing leak, roof leak or other moisture problem is creating conditions the ants like in your kitchen. You should check carefully for such problems and have them corrected, since they can do more damage than the ants. Most home centers and garden-supply centers also stock insecticides that are effective against carpenter ants. A reader wrote me that she had eliminated an invasion of these ants by using an ant-killer dust made by Ortho.

Is a 12x24 shed big enough?

Whether you have plans to use your 12×24 shed for simple storage, vehicle storage, or recreation space, 288 square feet of space gives you the room...

Last updated Sep 24, 2022

Can you fit a washer and dryer in a 5x10 storage unit?

The 5x10 storage unit is great for storing garage items such as lawn equipment, sporting equipment, small furniture, holiday decorations, or lots...

Last updated Aug 31, 2022

Promotion

If do-it-yourself treatment and correcting moisture-causing conditions doesn't eliminate the ants, it's best to call in a pest-exterminator.

Q: We have cedar shingles on our church, and want to preserve the original appearance rather than let them weather to a gray or black color. We're confused about possible treatments. Can you help?

A: It is difficult to keep natural wood from darkening or weathering. The graying of most wood is caused by ultraviolet rays from the sun, and I know of no way to screen these rays out completely except by painting the wood, which you obviously don't want to do. Using a clear sealer or finish that contains ultraviolet (UV) screen or inhibitor is the best bet for slowing weathering. One system that is highly regarded by some experts -- and will retard weathering but probably not eliminate it -- uses products made by the Flood Co. On new wood, a sealer called Seasonite should be applied soon after construction, and followed in a year by CWF-UV (clear wood finish with ultraviolet screen).

For more information on these products, call (800) 321-3444.

Q: We live in an old brick row house that is in good condition except for the front wall, which is bulging slightly. Where can I get the old-fashioned rods or spikes to help pull the wall back into shape?

A: I strongly recommend you have this project handled by an experienced contractor. Call masonry contractors in your area until you find one who is experienced with this procedure. I also suggest prompt action. Readers' questions and comments should be sent to Gene Austin, c/o The Baltimore Sun, Box 8263, Philadelphia, Pa. 19101.

baltimoresun.com - Decks made of pressure-treated wood should be sealed annually

What keeps rats away permanently?

Spread peppermint oil, cayenne pepper, black pepper, or cloves around the home's exterior to prevent the rats from entering the house in the first...

Last updated Jul 31, 2019

Do you nail or screw OSB board?

Typically, screws are best for OSB and softwoods due to the heightened chance of splitting and easier removal at a future date. This results in a...

Last updated Jul 26, 2018

Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

What is an eco friendly alternative to Styrofoam?

Polylactic Acid (PLA) lined paper is an excellent sustainable alternative to Styrofoam food packaging. It's a plant-based resin made from corn...

Last updated May 23, 2020

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

How close should studs be in a shed?

Space your wall studs either 16 or 24 inches apart. Unlike the floor joists, spacing the wall studs 24 inches apart won't cost you much in terms of...

Last updated Jan 6, 2019