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
What is pressure treated wood used for?
How much does it cost to maintain a PT deck?
What happens to wood decking in the winter?
What happens to wood when water enters the pores?
What causes wood to turn gray?
Does lumber have a warranty?
Is pressure treated wood good for decking?
See 2 more
Should I use pressure treated wood for a deck?
Pressure-treated lumber is the logical choice for the structural part of your deck—the posts, joists, beams and other members you normally don't see. Pressure-treated lumber can support more weight and span longer distances than cedar, redwood or other woods commonly used for building decks.
How long does pressure treated wood last on a deck?
around 50 yearsWooden Decks Made from Pressure-Treated Lumber So while it will resist a lot of the environmental changes that the weather brings, it might not be the ideal material for everyone. If you maintain and seal your pressure-treated deck, it can last you around 50 years.
What's the best type of wood to 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 is better for a deck cedar or pressure treated?
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.
What is the longest lasting deck material?
Aluminum and Steel Aluminum decking is the most expensive out of the deck material and will last the longest with a lifespan of 30+ years. Steel decking can have a lifespan of 60+ years when correctly installed by a professional builder.
Is it better to stain or paint pressure treated wood?
Experts recommended that you stain pressure treated wood rather than paint it. The primary reason for this is that paint rarely adheres to pressure-treated wood very well because of the process used for the pressure treatment.
What is the cheapest wood for decking?
Pressure-Treated Lumber Costs It's the most common and least expensive type of decking. Although pressure-treated wood requires yearly washing, sanding, and sealing, when finished with a clear sealant, it will last up to 30 years if maintained properly.
When should I use pressure treated wood?
In general, pressure-treated lumber is recommended in situations where there is direct contact between the wood and anything that could supply moisture: Retaining walls, which function to support landscaping projects and hold back soil. Any posts or beams that come in contact with the ground or are buried underground.
Can I stain pressure treated wood?
Not only can you stain treated wood, painting and staining pressure-treated wood is actually good for your new deck. Although the treated wood doesn't need to be protected against rot, staining it will help reduce surface cracking.
Does pressure treated wood need to be sealed?
Although treated wood is protected against decay and termite attack, the application of a water-repellent sealer to all exposed wood surfaces is recommended upon completion of construction. This sealer will help control surface checking (splitting or cracking) and provide an attractive appearance.
How long will a deck last without stain?
After 6 months, the wood will start to lose its color and will begin to fade. Ultimately it will fade to grey or silver.
Can I paint pressure treated wood?
Yes, you can paint or stain pressure-treated wood, but for a long-lasting and great-looking finish evaluate the wood's moisture content first, then use the correct paint and primer. Keep reading for detailed how to tips.
Does a pressure treated deck need to be sealed?
Although treated wood is protected against decay and termite attack, the application of a water-repellent sealer to all exposed wood surfaces is recommended upon completion of construction. This sealer will help control surface checking (splitting or cracking) and provide an attractive appearance.
What is the life expectancy of a wood deck?
10 to 15 yearsTHE AVERAGE LIFESPAN OF A WOOD DECK: Typically 10 to 15 years. The actual lifespan of your wood deck will depend on the type of wood you've chosen and how well you keep up with wood's rigorous maintenance schedule.
How do you keep pressure treated wood from rotting?
The best way to protect from pressure-treated wood rot is to apply a deck preservative. Like we mentioned earlier, stains, paints and sealants are the best choice to use. You can find these items easily at the local hardware store.
How often should decking be treated?
every two to three yearsMany homeowners wonder, “How often should I stain my deck?” To keep a deck looking great and prolong the life of the wood, a deck should be stained every two to three years. Other signs your deck needs staining are: The deck has mold or mildew buildup. Water soaks into the deck boards and no longer beads up.
What is pressure treated wood?
Wood can be impregnated with a variety of preservative chemicals to prevent rot and insect infestation in exterior applications like decks. Several species of wood can be treated, but a regionally available species usually predominates in any particular locale.
What type of wood is used for decking?
The strength and properties of lumber from different species of wood varies considerably. Species like southern pine and douglas fir are often used for deck framing. There are a handful of species commonly used for structural framing, and while relatively similar, their properties affect how far they can span as joists.
Why is treated wood shrinking?
Because treated wood is often still wet when it is delivered to the site, it will shrink slightly in width and thickness as it dries out. This can cause significant twisting, cupping, bowing and warping especially in lower-grade boards where knots and uneven grains are already present.
What is treated wood?
The predominant species of treated wood is a regionally available softwood. Most common are: Southern Yellow Pine - Southern pine is the most common deck framing material in the eastern United States. It is strong and stiff. SYP logs yield a high proportion of sapwood, which works well to absorb preservative.
Which logs are stronger, syp or Douglas Fir?
SYP logs yield a high proportion of sapwood, which works well to absorb preservative. Red and Ponderosa Pine - Less strong than SYP , found in northern U.S. and Canada. Douglas Fir – It is very strong and is less prone to warping and spitting than SYP. Predominant material found in western U.S. and Canada.
How many holes are allowed in a 5/4 deck?
Number 1- Will contain no splits larger than the width of the board. Knots may not be larger than 2 ¾". One hole is permitted every 3 ft. Standard - Mid-range grade for 5/4 decking. Number 2 - Grain slope must meet minimum 1/8 grain slope. Boards will contain no splits larger than 1.5 times width of board.
What is grade in lumber?
Grade is a description of the quality of a given species. As lumber moves through a mill, grading inspectors review each piece and separate them onto different paths. Knots, decay, grain angle, wane, damage, warp and other physical characteristics of an individual piece of lumber distinguish it into a specific grade.
How long does pressure treated wood last?
Pressure-treated wood’s extra strength gives it a long lifespan, ensuring that it will last for decades to come with proper care. Ease of repair. In the event of a grilling accident or curiously destructive child, pressure-treated wood is easily and inexpensively repaired. Insect repellency.
What to wear when working with pressure treated wood?
When working with this type of wood, it’s important to remain in a well-ventilated area and wear masks, safety goggles, and gloves. Be sure to wash your hands and clothes thoroughly after working with pressure-treated wood.
How long does it take for a deck to splinter?
Since this type of decking material is made from natural wood, it will inevitably splinter with time. After being outdoors for six to twelve months, treated decks may also experience checking, a process where wood begins to dry out and split apart due to exposure to alternate cycles of wetting and drying. Fading.
What is the best wood for insect proofing?
Natural. This type of building material is made from natural wood. The most commonly treated wood is pine, an environmentally-friendly choice because of its fast growth.
What is the purpose of vacuum and pressure treatment?
During the treatement process, pressure and vacuum technology are used to force protective chemical preservatives into standard woods like spruce, fur, or pine. This renders it a sturdier building material that is less susceptible to rot, fungal decay, and insects.
Why does my deck fading?
Fading. Color fading will most likely occur as the wood is exposed to ultraviolet rays from the sun over time. High-maintenance. To protect your deck from these disadvantages - splintering, checking, fading, or becoming porous and soft - you must stain and apply a penetrating sealer to the wood annually.
Is pressure treated wood still popular?
Monday, May 04, 2020. Though composite decking takes over the deck and porch markets, pressure-treated wood is still a popular option. It differentiates itself from its untreated sibling with a special process that gives it a hardier character. One that is more resistant to moisture, the elements, and general physical damage.
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 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 .
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.
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 Should You Use Pressure-Treated Lumber When Building Your Deck?
In a word, longevity. Pressure-treated wood will last longer than untreated wood.
What is Pressure-Treated Wood?
To make pressure-treated wood. Wood is placed in a chamber depressurized by vacuuming the air out and replacing it with treatment. This causes the treatment to penetrate the wood deeper, increasing the level and depth of protection.
What is CBA in wood?
Copper azole (CBA). A mix of amine copper and co-biocides. For hard to penetrate wood like Douglas Fir, ammonia may be added.
What is ACQ in decking?
Alkaline copper quat (ACQ). This has largely replaced CCA in deck application. It protects wood both for above-ground and ground contact applications making it ideal for a backyard deck. Formulated of copper-ammonia or copper ethanolamne mixed with various types and percentages of chloride, making the A, B, C and D in labelling.
What is eating up my deck joists?
Fungi on deck joists will rarely be moss or mushrooms eating up the wood but will be small micro-organisms eating away at the wood. Destroying the strength of the wood but softening in the wood. To the point where you can crumble the wood between your fingers.
How long can a 2x10 joist span?
For example, a 2×10 S-P-F joist not incised can span 15’2″ (4.62m) when spaced 16″ (400mm) on centre. But the same wood, when incised to increase treatment, can only span 14′ (4.26m). A reduction of roughly 8% in span.
Why do you seal wood decking?
Regular sealing of wood will seal out excess moisture limiting cell damage in the wood.
How to protect wood from moisture damage?
To help protect against moisture damage, apply water repellent after your project is completed and the wood has had a chance to thoroughly dry.
What is the primary material used for decking?
The primary deck material, however, is pressure-treated wood. Treated wood, sold in nearly every lumber outlet in North America, is chosen by contractors and do-it-yourselfers for a variety of reasons: It comes from a plentiful and renewable resource. Its resistance to termites and rot is well established.
How to protect factory treated posts?
Orient supporting posts so that original factory treated ends are in contact with the ground. Trim the top ends as needed and cover them with post caps or cut them at angles to shed water and treat with a brush-on preservative (see above).
What is the minimum copper content for wood?
Liberally coat all cut ends, holes, or other intrusions into the wood with a suitable wood preservative product containing a minimum of 0.675% copper as oxine copper (copper-8 or copper-8-quinolinolate) or 1% copper as copper naphthenate. (One such product is Outlast ® Q8 Log Oil. See www.chemtch.com for information and to order).
Why do people have decks?
Few home improvements can match a wood deck for usefulness, beauty, and enhanced value to a home. For adults, decks offer outdoor living space for entertaining, relaxing, and dining. For children, they provide a secure outdoor play area. Decks are considered an essential and cost-effective way to add living space to your home — it’s ...
Why do you build a deck?
More and more newly constructed decks are built by do-it-yourselfers as expansion of their living space. Homeowners take pride in their accomplishments as they enjoy a space they have created.
How to stop wood from splitting?
Drive nails at a slight angle toward each other. To reduce splitting when using nails, especially near the ends of boards, drill a pilot hole about three quarters the diameter of the nail. For dense or brittle wood, grind sharpness from nails or blunt the points by striking them carefully with a hammer.
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:
What is pressure treated wood used for?
Generally, pressure treated (aka 'PT') wood is used in the construction of decks, pergolas, and sheds.
How much does it cost to maintain a PT deck?
Upkeep: The biggest downside to PT wood decks is the upkeep. PT wood decks can withstand weather and stand strong for 30+ years, but they must be maintained regularly. This includes applying water sealant every year, staining the deck every two years, and pressure washing the deck twice a year. In all, you will spend approximately 20 hours and $250 every year to maintain a deck. Over a 30 year period, that is 600 hours (or 30 weekends) and $7,500 maintaining a wood deck.
What happens to wood decking in the winter?
In other words, during the Winter we have ice and during the Summer we have rain. What happens to the wood during this time is that water enters the pores of the wood, causing the wood to expand and contract as the water enters and leaves the wood. This process causes splits (or 'checking') in the wood (which occurs with every wood deck). But, applying water sealant will decrease the effects of this natural process.
What happens to wood when water enters the pores?
What happens to the wood during this time is that water enters the pores of the wood, causing the wood to expand and contract as the water enters and leaves the wood. This process causes splits (or 'checking') in the wood (which occurs with every wood deck).
What causes wood to turn gray?
There's a scientific process called photo-oxidation that causes the surface of the boards to gray, but, the process can be slowed through the application of stain or paint.
Does lumber have a warranty?
Warranty: The good news is that most lumber manufacturers offer a long-term warranty, which generally covers fungal decay and termite infestation. The bad news is that most consumers don't know it.
Is pressure treated wood good for decking?
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.
