How much does a pressure treated wood deck cost?
The cost of materials provided is an average from across the country, and depending on where you live, you may experience slightly more or slightly less per square foot for your project. On average, a pressure treated wood deck costs $6 per square foot for materials, or between $12 and $18 per square foot installed.
How to pressure clean and treat your wood deck?
- Before cleaning, clear any deck furniture, toys and potted plants out of the way.
- Sweep the deck.
- Use a putty knife to remove any debris from between deck boards that a broom or scrub brush can’t reach.
- Clean the deck by spraying a biodegradable outdoor cleaner that removes mildew.
How much does a pressure treated deck cost?
How much a pressure-treated wood deck should cost. Average costs and comments from CostHelper's team of professional journalists and community of users. A PT wood deck can cost $8-$50 a square foot ($2,560-$16,000 for a 16'x20' deck), but averages about $25-$35 a square foot ($8,000-$11,200 for 16'x20'), depending on the quality of materials, project complexity, and whether construction is by ...
What is the best stain for pressure treated decks?
- Gives your pressure-treated wood a fade-resistant finish
- The oil-based stain will penetrate very deep into the wood.
- The quality stain that won’t blister, peel or crack
- The oil-based stain makes the wood “repel” water from its surface.
- Mades the wood resistant to UV rays (from the sun) and mildew
How long does pressure treated wood last on a deck?
How Long Does Pressure-Treated Wood Last? It depends on the climate, the type of wood, its uses, and how well it's maintained. While pressure treated poles can stay up to 40 years without any signs of rot or decay, decks and flooring might only last around 10 years.
What is the best pressure treated wood to use for a deck?
Pressure Treated Wood There are a few different types of wood that are commonly pressure treated for decks, but the two most popular are southern yellow pine and douglas fir.
How do you build a deck with pressure treated lumber?
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What type of wood should I use for a deck?
Pressure-treated lumber is the best wood for outdoor decks when it comes to upfront costs because of its easy accessibility. However, pressure-treated lumber — and indeed, all types of traditional wood decking material — require the aforementioned rigorous, costly maintenance over time.
What kind of wood should I use for a deck base?
You'll want ground-contact use wood for your deck frame. For joists, douglas fir and southern yellow pine are some of the strongest wood types. When choosing lumber, look for boards graded “No. 2” or higher.
Should I build my deck out of treated lumber?
In all, pressure treated wood, like anything, has its good qualities and its not-so-good qualities. But, with excellent features such as its resistant to fungal decay and termites as well as its attractive price-point, pressure treated wood is an outstanding choice to use for the construction of your deck.
Do you need to space pressure treated deck boards?
And if so, how big should the gap be? Proper deck board spacing should have a 1/8-inch gap after the decking has dried out. If you install your decking using wet boards, pressure-treated decking that has not yet dried out, then you should install them with no gap as a gap will be created as they dry and shrink.
Should I let pressure treated wood dry before installing?
The first tip for working with pressure-treated lumber is to let it dry before using it. Other woods such as redwood and cedar are dry when you buy them. But lumber that has been treated has been injected with massive amounts of chemicals and water.
What is the difference between #1 and #2 lumber?
#1 Grade: When appearance becomes more of a factor, #1 Grade will contain smaller, fewer, sound, tight knots and have less wane than found in #2 Grade. Keep in mind, that with the introduction of Prime grades, #1 Grade no longer contains some of the better grades that used to be included.
What is the best material to use for decks?
PVC decking is also the top choice for long-lasting, durable deck boards. Much of this owes to PVC's water resistance. It's moisture-absorption that causes most of wood decking's durability issues: warping, splitting, cracking, mold, mildew, rot, and insect damage.
Are there different grades of pressure treated lumber?
Grades of pressure treated wood Pressure treated wood is sold with the lumber grades Premium, Select, Number 1, Number 2, and Number 3. The higher the grade, the fewer the defects—that is splits or knots. In general, you will want to choose Number 2 grade boards, or higher, for decks.
Is cedar or pressure treated wood better for decks?
When it comes to comparing treated wood vs. cedar, pressure-treated wood is the sturdier and more weather-proof of the two. It's highly resistant to insect attack and rot, and special versions rated for “ground contact” can be buried in soil and will continue to shrug off decay for decades.
Should You Use Pressure Treated Decking for Your Deck Project?
Building a deck on a budget can be a little stressful; especially when most of your budget goes to the materials. Finding a decking material that is cost effective can be the difference between making budget and going over. Pressure treated decking seems like it would be the perfect solution. Pairing an inexpensive wood with chemicals that resist rot and deter bugs seems like a great match for a deck surface that will be exposed to the elements. But traditional treated decking has several problems that make it a substandard material for your project.
Why do deck boards bleed?
So when you buy treated deck boards you can expect the boards to be heavy and feel wet. When you cut them or drill them, the boards will “bleed” as the moisture is released .
What happens when deck boards dry out?
And as the boards begin to dry out, the fibers in the board will contract and the board will twist and warp.
Why do boards bleed when cut?
When you cut them or drill them, the boards will “bleed” as the moisture is released. Because the boards are soaked, it might seem like a good idea to let them dry out first. But the next problem makes that impossible. 2. Shrinking, Warping and Twisting. When the boards begin to dry, the boards will begin to shrink.
Can you paint treated deck boards?
Finishing the surface of treated deck boards is also tricky. Most pressure treated deck boards are pre-colored. But the color is inconsistent from batch to batch and is not very pleasant to the eyes. Painting may seem like a great way to fix this, but paint will eventually peel and chip. Worse yet, paint will seal moisture into the wood and can lead to premature rot even in treated wood. There are heavily pigmented stains that can address this problem but should be tested on a test piece to ensure that the color looks right.
What is the best sealant for pressure treated lumber?
If you're using pressure treated lumber and are concerned about its risks, applying an oil-based sealant is the best protective measure. Oil-based sealants have been shown to limit the amount of arsenic, copper, and other compounds reaching the surface of the wood.
What colors are good for landscape?
Lighter paint colors, like eggshell white, buttercream yellow, and pastel shades of darker colors, create a soft backdrop for your landscape features. Your home blends into the background, allowing your landscape to become the best focal point of your property.
Why isn't pressure treated wood used?
So if pressure treated wood resists the damaging effects of moisture and insects, why isn't it used for your entire home? It's because the chemicals used to pressure treat wood aren't safe for humans. You can find arsenic in all older pressure treated lumber and some new materials, while copper is widely used in even the newest pressure treatment formulas.
What is the best finish for painting a house?
Finishes vary from a high gloss to a pure matte design; speak to your painting specialist to see which type of finish is best for your home. A slight sheen is easy to clean and reflective, creating an ideal finish for your home's lighter shade.
Why do people paint their homes?
The main reason for painting your home's exterior is to add curb appeal. Your home isn't the only part of your property that improves with fresh paint, however. The surrounding landscape benefits as well.
How to increase living space in tiny home?
One way to increase your tiny home's living space is by making use of the space you have outside. Exterior living spaces, via porches and sunrooms, provide just the right amount of extra-room that many homeowners crave. Get creative and pick up building materials and hardware to augment your tiny home with an outdoor space that you and those close to you will enjoy spending time in.
Can you paint siding with a fresh coat of paint?
Any cracks, blemishes, dents, stains from mold or mildew, or missing siding panel issues will not alleviate themselves with a fresh coat of paint. However, lighter paint colors will diminish the appearance of minor siding flaws to give your home a more renovated, well-kept appeal. Softer colors reflect light, allowing blemishes to be more hidden by visual trickery.
Why Mix Materials?
One of the biggest reasons to mix materials in a deck remodel or a new deck construction project is to save money. Pressure treated lumber is usually less expensive than PVC deck materials. If you can use wood for things like uprights and other supports that will be hidden from view, then the total cost of your project will go down.
Why mix wood decking?
Another reason to mix materials is to reduce maintenance needs. Things like wood handrails and wood decking boards need regular maintenance and finishing to prevent splinters. Since composite deck materials are weather resistant and splinter-free, using these products on surfaces that will come in contact with hands and feet reduces ...
Why do people choose composite decking?
Eco-friendliness is the reason why some people choose a mix of composite and wood decking. Some composites are infused with plastics, so homeowners that are concerned about plastics in the environment often choose to go with wood or at the very least, they will use as many wood components as possible to reduce their reliance on plastics.
What to consider when replacing wood decking?
There are three major things to think about when replacing parts of a wood deck with composite. The first thing to consider is the overall appearance of the deck. When you’re mixing materials, you’ll end up mixing finishes, too. The finished product will be a two-tone deck, but if you plan well, that isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
Can you replace decking with composite?
Because composite is weather resistant, maintenance free and not prone to splintering, you’ll likely replace decking boards and handrailing at the very least. But, it doesn ’t have to end there. You could also consider replacing elements like fascia and stairs, either just the top surface of each step or a more complete overhaul, ...
Can you paint a deck yearly?
If you’re doing a deck remodel, particularly if your wood deck has been painted and you’re tired of repainting it yearly, then a mixed composite deck is a good way to reduce or eliminate the need for yearly repainting. Simply choose a composite material in a matching or complementary color and replace as many visible boards as possible so that next year, you won’t have much (or possibly any) painting to do.
Can you use PVC glue on a deck?
If you’re going with PVC deck materials, then you may also want to use a specially formulated PVC glue in conjunction with your fasteners just to make sure that the deck holds up to the elements and the expansion and contraction that comes with weather changes.
What is the best deck finish for pressure treated decks?
For pressure treated decks, we recommend Spa N Deck from Flood or Wood RX. The 100% acrylic finish formula can be applied in just one day, and the end result enhances the wood’s natural beauty while providing extra durability. You can find Spa N Deck at your nearest Decks & Docks location.
What is Pressure Treated Lumber?
Pressure-treated lumber has been treated with chemical preservatives to help prevent rot and insect damage. Certain chemicals, such as the water-repellent CA-C (copper azole type C), also makes the wood suitable for ground contact, even in marine environments.
Why do deck boards swell?
On a deck that’s going to be directly exposed to rain, water can seep into the boards and cause them to swell. As they dry in the sun, they’ll shrink. Over time, this constant cycle of swelling and shrinking will cause your deck to become cracked, splintered, and warped.
How long does it take for a deck to dry before sealing?
The chemicals used to treat the wood leave moisture behind, and depending on the climate, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months until it’s dry enough to seal.
How long does it take for PT lumber to dry?
Most deck sealers for PT lumber require 24 to 48 hours of drying time, so make sure there’s no rain in the forecast.
How do I change the color of a wood deck?
Choose the right sealant. If you want to show off the wood’s natural color, use a clear or semi-transparent oil-based sealant . If you want to change the color of your deck, you can use a combination stain and sealant. However, you shouldn’t attempt to seal pressure-treated wood that’s already been stained.
How to infuse preservatives into wood?
To infuse these preservatives, the wood is immersed and placed in a pressure chamber. The pressure forces the chemicals deep into the wood fibers, making them much more effective than if they were simply coated on the outside.
What is Pressure Treated Wood?
Pressure treated wood is specially cared for to be more durable. There are different types of pressure treatments that can make the wood resistant to decay, mold, water damage, pests, and sometimes even fire.
Pressure Treated Wood vs. Untreated Wood
Treated wood is technically not stronger than untreated wood, but it is more resistant to the elements. Therefore, it will maintain its structural integrity under extreme conditions for a longer period of time.
Choosing the Right Untreated Wood
There are plenty of wood species that are best suited for decks even when left untreated. These types of wood will still be rather strong and can stay in good condition for a few years despite environmental impacts. These include:
Staining vs. Painting
When it comes to building a deck with untreated wood, you’re going to have to make an important decision: to stain or to paint? Both finishing options will protect your deck from inclement weather and moisture. However, they vary drastically in almost every other way, including durability, maintenance, cost, appearance, and application.
Sealing Your Deck
When using untreated wood, you’re also going to have to seal your deck. This is because untreated wood is very susceptible to water damage. Before you begin staining, make sure the wood is not showing any signs of rotting. Many deck stains will come as a two-in-one mixture that includes a sealant.
Related Questions
Redwood and cedar are the best options for decks because they are both extremely strong. However, they are higher maintenance. Redwood is a bit stronger than cedar, but cedar is less expensive.
Final Thoughts on Using Non-Pressure Treated Wood for Your Deck
The bottom line is you can build a deck with untreated wood, but it must be prepared properly to ensure it lasts. Even then, it isn’t going to last as long as a pressure treated deck. That said, you can still do it!
What type of wood is used for outdoor decking?
There are many wood species that can be used for outdoor decks, but not all offer the same benefits and maintenance requirements, and price and availability vary by region. As Bob Mion, of the California Redwood Association, points out, “In the Southeast you’ll find lots of Southern yellow pine; in the North Central Midwest, ...
What wood is best for a deck?
Redwood. Redwood, another premium deck wood, is easy to work with, naturally decay- and insect-resistant, and rugged enough to avoid warping, checking, and splitting.
Why is cedar wood hardy?
This hardiness is due to the fact that cedarwood will actually change its moisture content to closely match the atmosphere.
How long does redwood last?
Premium woods like red cedar and redwood offer comparable levels of durability and longevity, lasting an average of 20 years.
What is the difference between cedar and redwood?
Both woods are naturally resistant to shrinking and warping. The primary difference between the two woods is color: Redwoods range from light to dark red, while cedar hues run from light brown to salmon pink. Advertisement. Photo: southernpinedecks.com.
How long does a wood deck last?
Initially, wood costs significantly less than either vinyl or composite, and if properly constructed and maintained, a wood deck will last for years. And unlike petroleum-based materials, wood is renewable if sustainably harvested.
Can you use redwood for a deck on Cape Cod?
You can certainly use redwood for a deck on Cape Cod—if you pay to ship it there. Now that you know that where you live and how much you can afford to spend will probably be the deciding factors, here are the most common natural-wood choices for deck building:
Can I Build A Deck With Untreated Wood?
The problem with the untreated wood outside is that it will perform its function as it should for a while, but if you continue using it without according the same as per the use and environment, you will end up rotting the wood, inviting termites to your home, or worse, decrease the overall integrity of your structure.
How to protect non-pressure treated wood from water damage?
The best way to protect non-pressure treated wood from water damage is to seal it using a good seal. Depending on where you live, sealers for wood will vary. However, here is a list of some of the most recommended outdoor wood sealers.
How does staining differ from sealing?
When it comes to staining, the process is slightly different from applying a seal because a seal doesn’t exactly ‘absorb’ in wood. It dries up and hardens. Stains, on the other hand, seep into the perforations between wood fibers and block the holes, coloring the wood in the process.
How to clean up a wood table?
Use a dry tac cloth again to clean up the surface. Tap the wood a few times to ensure there are no particles hiding in nooks and crannies.
What is the worst wood for a deck?
Some of the worst wood species that you can choose to go with (untreated) for your deck include pine and hemlock. These are extremely perforated woods and are quick to retain moisture and therefore rot.
How to make a wood table look smooth?
Start by sanding the wood smooth. Again, sand with the grain to avoid scratches.
How does UV damage wood?
Both treated and untreated wood can degrade over time as the sun heats it up and changes the wood’s composition. It begins by draining the oil inside wood (the sta in) and eventually reduces its integrity.