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Pressure Treated Wood: The Best Choice For Outdoor Projects

From decks and fences to garden structures – outdoor projects can take many forms. While building them can be a fun and interesting challenge, it is important to be mindful of the materials you use. Choosing the right materials for such projects can be very tricky as the environment plays a huge role in determining their endurance, durability, and longevity. 

 

If you are looking for materials that check all three boxes, you cannot go wrong with pressure-treated wood. Despite what the myths say, pressure treated wood is actually very resilient and can withstand the rigors of the environment without giving way to damage. 

 

Need more reasons to use them for your outdoor construction project? Let us give you five!

 

 

Reasons To Choose Pressure Treated Wood For Outdoor Projects

 

 

Resistance to rot and decay 

 

Outdoor structures are constantly exposed to rain and moisture. Exposure to snow and insects cannot be prevented either. But you know what can be? The damage these can cause. Infused with chemical preservatives that enhance its longevity, pressure treated wood can resist rot and insect damage. They offer protection against fungal decay, making them the perfect choice for garden beds, decks, and fences. Expect these to last forever. 

 

 

Resilient against insect and termite damage

 

Where there is untreated wood, there is damage from termites and other wood-boring insects. Using such wood outdoors can be a total nightmare. Frequent replacements are expensive, and it is a major safety hazard. The best thing you can do is use wood that has been chemically treated to resist these pesky pests. Pressure treated wood protects the structural integrity of your project, giving you lasting peace of mind. 

 

 

Cost-effective and long-lasting 

 

Nothing degrades faster outdoors than untreated wood. Maintenance costs can quickly add up, turning a low capital investment material into a costly one in the long run. On the other hand, pressure treated lumber might be more expensive upfront, but it offers a significantly better ROI. Why? Because the need to replace or fix it will not arise frequently. Its maintenance costs are much lower, thus saving contractors and homeowners money while offering incomparable durability. 

 

 

Versatile and aesthetically appealing

 

Even outdoor structures should look pleasing to the eye. After all, they are for everyone to enjoy equally. The good thing about pressure-treated lumber is that you can paint it to achieve different types of finishes that match the vibe of the setting they are a part of. What’s more, this durable wood type can also be used to build a variety of structures. While it is an obvious choice for decks and fences, it can be used to build retaining walls, pergolas, planter boxes, outdoor furniture, and even structural supports. There are plenty of sizes and grades available, which gives you the flexibility to order exactly the kind of wood you need for your project. 

 

 

Building code compliant

 

Compliance with local building codes is critical for all outdoor construction projects, irrespective of their setting – residential or commercial. That means the material you choose for construction must live up to code and be safe and long-lasting. Pressure treated wood from a reliable lumber yard often exceeds building code requirements, thus ensuring your project is fully compliant. 

 

 

Bonus: Store it right

 

Getting pressure treated lumber for your outdoor project is smart and full of benefits, provided you store it right onsite. We recommend keeping it off the ground in a well-ventilated spot so it does not succumb to the adverse effects of moisture. Remember not to cover it too tightly.

 

 

Conclusion

 

Pressure treated wood can be an asset for outdoor projects. Its durability and resistance to pests and moisture mean outdoor structures will preserve their integrity for a long time to come. If you are convinced of their perks and want your next project to feature pressure treated lumber, Fonthill Lumber Inc. is here for you. Our Welland, Ontario yard is packed to the brim with certified high-quality lumber that is available in various grades and sizes for you to choose from. Contact us to get a wide selection of wood that can help you build lasting outdoor structures.