Key Takeaways
- You need durable and solid wood for fence installation.
- Pressure-treated lumber fits the bill perfectly, thanks to its durable and fire-resistant nature.
- Before fence installation and deck maintenance, you need to understand the pros and cons of using the material.
- Also, the contractor you choose for fence installation creates a world of difference in the final results.
Picture this: you’ve just finished building the perfect fence for your property, and as you admire your handiwork, you notice a few spots where the wood is starting to rot. If only you had used pressure-treated wood! But is it worth the extra expense?
Pressure-treated wood is treated with chemicals that help prolong its life, making it an excellent choice for fences in areas with lots of moisture or pests. However, these treatments can be toxic, so if safety concerns you, this may not be the best option. This blog post discusses this popular fence lumber and its pros and cons in detail!
Pressure-treated wood is an excellent choice for a durable, long-lasting fence. But what exactly is pressure-treated wood? Keep reading to find out.
What is Pressure-Treated Wood?
Pressure-treated wood is treated with chemicals to extend its lifespan and prevent decay. The process of pressure treating lumber involves placing the wood in a large container called a retort and sealing it shut. The retort is then pressurized with water or air and finally heated to saturation. This forces the chemical to penetrate deep into the fibers of the lumber.
Once the pressure-treating process is complete, the lumber is allowed to cool and dry before use. The most common chemical preservative used in pressure-treating lumber is Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA). CCA-treated lumber has been used for over 60 years and is still the most popular type of pressure-treated wood on the market.
Types of Pressure-Treated Wood
Not all pressure-treated lumber is created equal. Your choice of wood should depend on its intended use. For example, if you’re building a deck, you’ll want to use lumber treated for ground contact. Ground contact lumber is treated with higher chemical preservatives than above-ground pressure-treated wood. This makes the fence more resistant to rot and insect damage and better able to withstand exposure to moisture.
Above ground, lumber is treated with lower levels of chemical preservatives, but it can still withstand external pressure and protect your project from rot and insect damage.
Also, read – How You Can Upgrade Your Patio’s Look With a Pergola
Pros & Cons of Using the Wood
You might consider using pressure-treated lumber for your next home improvement project. But is it the right choice? Consider the following:
Pro: It’s Durable
One of the most appealing things about pressure-treated lumber is its durability. Fences made from lumber can withstand all sorts of harsh conditions, including rot, decay, and insect damage.
Con: Chemical Risks
Pressure-treated lumber is treated with chemicals to achieve high durability. Inhaling or ingesting these chemicals is dangerous, so remember to take proper safety precautions when working with it.
Pros: Insect Resistant
Insects can wreak havoc on wood, but pressure-treated lumber is resistant to insect damage. The wood’s insect-resistant nature makes it an excellent choice for areas with an insect problem, such as near wooded areas or regions with high mosquito populations.
Cons: Maintenance
Another downside of lumber is that it requires more maintenance than other types of lumber. The chemicals in the wood can be corrosive and need regular re-application to keep the wood from deteriorating.
Pros: Affordable
Pressure-treated lumber is also affordable and less expensive than other lumber types, so it’s a good choice if you’re on a budget.
Cons: Warping and Shrinking
It takes time for the wood to dry completely; it undergoes some shrinking and warping during the drying period.
Pros: Moisture and Fungal Resistant
Moisture and humidity can also damage wood, not until it is pressure treated. The wood is also resistant to moisture and fungal growth, making it an excellent choice for damp or humid areas.
Pros: Fire Resistant
Fire damage is a common threat to all kinds of wood. Pressure-treated wood is flame retardant, which makes it a popular choice among communities close to fire-damaged susceptible areas. So, a pressure-treated lumber fence is a good choice if you reside close to the forest or intend to do some outdoor grilling and set camp outside.
Choosing the right contractor for your fence installation is essential no matter what type of fence you’re getting. Low-quality or faulty installation can lead to severe problems like a leaning or unstable fence, which can be dangerous. Furthermore, a bad installation job will likely void any warranty that may have come with the fence materials themselves. So. it’s essential to do your research and choose a reputable, professional contractor with experience installing the type of fence you want.
Choose the Right Fence Contractor for Fence Installation
Here’s a brief insight into what you need to consider before choosing a contractor for fence installation.
Fences are manufactured from various materials; choose a contractor experienced with the fence you’re interested in. For example, if you’re looking for a pressure-treated lumber fence, you’ll want to find a contractor with experience installing that specific fence type.
Also, consider the project’s size and scope. If you’re planning on installing a large fence, you’ll need to ensure that the contractor you choose is up for the task.
Another thing to keep in mind is your budget. Installing a fence can be a pricey endeavor, so finding a contractor who can work within your budget is essential. When getting quotes from different contractors, inquire about discounts or promotions they may be running.
Not only does pressure-treated lumber last longer, but it also requires less maintenance than other types of lumber. So, when you’re ready to install a new fence at your home or business, ask for pressure-treated lumber. It’s the best investment you can make in your property. And if you’re unsure how to install a fence, don’t worry! Castle Rock Deck & Fence experts are here to help in Littleton. We offer free estimates so that you can get started on your dream deck or fence today. Give us a call and see what we can do for you!
