Do I need pressure treated wood for a deck?
I am a professional deck builder in Washington state and have been building decks for 20 years. Pressure treated wood in necessary for all framing of a deck otherwise it will rot out in 5+years. I replace decks all the time where non-treated wood was used.
Can you replace a joist on a deck?
If you want to replace certain parts of the deck such as the ledger, you may need to replace the foundation and the joist with a type of material that can support the new component’s weight. 7. Termite Problems Look for wood crumbs and dark-colored areas on your joists.
Is steel framing better for deck joists?
But new steel framing options are becoming more and more popular for their strength and durability. Steel framing also supports longer maximum joist spans, and steel framing parts are more consistent in size and straightness, making things much easier for DIY builders. How Far Apart Should You Space Deck Joists?
How long can a joist span on a steel deck?
The maximum allowable spans are significantly longer with steel joists. In fact, a 2x6 steel joist will provide the strength of roughly a 2x10 wood joist when it comes to allowable joist spans. To learn more about planning your deck with steel framing, give our team a call at 1-888-824-5316.
Can I use untreated wood for deck joists?
It's better to use treated lumber and know your deck will be secure in a few years than try to use untreated wood for the supports and watch them rot away rapidly.
Do deck floor joists need to be treated?
Structural Wood Floors All wood floor joists and subfloors within 18″ of exposed ground, must be treated against decay or made from naturally decay-resistant materials such as cedar, redwood, cypress, etc. All wood girders within 12 inches of exposed soil must have similar types of material.
Do I need pressure treated wood for deck framing?
Any good home project involving lumber begins with making a good decision about the type of wood to use. When it comes to deck joists, pressure-treated wood is the way to go. In fact, pressure-treated lumber is preferred for most of your deck's structure, from the posts and beams to the joists.
Do joists need to be pressure treated?
Generally, building codes require pressure-treated or naturally durable wood for the following applications: Joists or the bottom of structural floors without joists that are within 18″ of exposed soil. Beams or girders closer than 12″ to exposed soil.
How do I keep my deck joists from rotting?
Repair and reinforce any timber that is soft or discolored with wood hardener or rotted timber putty. Protect the bearers and joists. Before replacing the deck board, cover joists and bearers with butyl tape. If there are areas you cannot reach to apply tape, use a clear sealer to prevent further rotting.
How long will pressure treated deck joists last?
Whether for framing only or the decking too, pressure treated lumber lasts a long time. Pressure treated lumber exposed to freeze-thaw and wet-dry cycles without care or maintenance will last about 9-years. With proper maintenance and treatment, the same deck will last 40 plus years.
What type of wood should I use for deck joists?
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.
What is the best wood for deck frame?
Redwood, cedar, and cypress, as well as the exotic species, are good choices, but since most decking boards from domestic woods are sapwood and not rot-resistant, you should treat them. For the deck surface, you can use 2x4s, 2x6s, or 5/4x6s.
Can you use rough cut lumber to build a deck?
Another thing that you can build using rough cedar lumber is a deck. While there is rough and smooth cedar available to you, the rough cut allows you to have more control over what it is going to look like in the end. When you build a deck, especially out in the woods, you want it to look rustic.
Should I paint my deck joists?
2. Coat the joists with a moisture-resistant stain or sealer before you install them to provide an extra level of protection, advises Flooring and Carpets. Paint all the surfaces and edges with a paintbrush, making sure you provide a generous coating on the ends.
What do you put between decking and joists?
Deck joist flashing tape is a water-resistant butyl adhesive used to keep moisture from penetrating your deck's frame....Benefits of Deck Joist Tape Flashing TapePrevents moisture penetration of joists.Protects the lumber from rot.Extends the life of the deck's substructure.
Should I stain deck joists?
Coat the joists with a moisture-resistant stain or sealer before you install them to provide an extra level of protection, advises Flooring and Carpets. Paint all the surfaces and edges with a paintbrush, making sure you provide a generous coating on the ends.
What is Pressure Treated-Wood
People use pressure-treated wood for many outdoor building projects and structures. The lumber industry uses it to make houses, bridges, and boats. Pressure-treated lumber is safe to use because it doesn’t cause any harm to people or other living things. When you buy pressure-treated lumber, you should ensure it’s dry.
When to Use Pressure-Treated Lumber for Floor Joists
We use wood for building houses, fences, decks, furniture, and more. We primarily use pressure-treated lumber for outdoor projects. It lasts longer than untreated wood but doesn’t protect against insects. Some people prefer pressure-treated lumber because it resists rot better than untreated wood.
Direct Contact with a Source of Moisture
Pressure-treated wood is excellent for outdoor projects because it lasts longer than untreated wood. However, it’s not necessary to use treated lumber indoors.
Pressure Treated Wood Residential Code Requirements
The International Residential Code (IRC) sets residential building guidelines, aka building codes, updated every 3 years. Section R317 of the 2020 IRC outlines the protection of wood and wood-based products against decay.
Why is the top of the deck joist wider than the rest of the deck?
The top of the joist looks wider than the rest of the joist, which may indicate that water has penetrated the boards from screw or fastener holes. Soft spots — there should never be soft spots in your deck’s framing. Signs of decay at the ends of boards. Warping.
How much space between lateral joists and bearing joists?
Using metal joist hangers and leaving at least 1/8 inch between the end of the lateral joists and sides of the bearing joists to allow for airflow
What happens when zinc in galvanized fasteners touches ACQ?
When the zinc in galvanized fasteners touches ACQ, corrosion occur s. Joist flashing tape protects your wood with a thin membrane to guard against corrosive preservatives and holds in place your metal fasteners and screws. One other consideration for deck joists is the type of wood you choose.
What is the preservative for pressure treated wood?
Now the wood is treated with a preservative called alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ). ACQ, a water-based wood preservative, contains a soluble copper (II) complex and quaternary ammonium alkyl- or aryl-substituted compounds.
Why use flashing tape on deck?
Deck flashing tape: Helps to reduce future maintenance. Gives your timber deck a longer lifespan — as a sealant protects your top decking boards, flashing tape protects what’s beneath, and doesn’t have to be reapplied each year like stain or seal. Protects your deck’s structural integrity.
Is deck framing exposed to rain?
While the framing in your home is protected by layers of siding, brick, caulking, and paint, your wood deck framing stands vigilant and exposed to rain, snow, sun, termites, and all of nature’s elements. That’s why it’s good to have an understanding of the deck joists and beams that support your deck and how long they last.
Where does rot occur on a deck?
There have been a handful of decks and porches built prior to the "PT Lumber age" that I have taken down over the years, and the number one location for rot to occur is where the nail drives into the wood. It makes a perfect wick for water to get in and do it's damage. So I suspect your contractor may be one of two: Young and inexperienced, or middled aged and not so honest. Then again...who am I to judge.
What happens if the posts do not go below the frost line?
If the posts do not go below the frost line then freezing & thawing will stress the connection to the house. Possibly causing failure
Can treated lumber corrode?
Standard is hot, double dipped galvanized fasteners and hangers. Regular joist hangers, for example, will corrode faster. The chemicals in the treated lumber is very corrosive to metals and you might as well use the cedar if fasteners are wrong kinds. If hidden deck fasteners are used, make sure the instruction says they will not corrode if in contact with PT. Coated nail gun nails are the worst. Do not allow the deck to be finished with nail gun nails.
Is pressure treated lumber the same as treated lumber?
Let's not confuse pressure treated with treated lumber, there is a difference. Your contractor is right "pressure" treated lumber is not needed because it is not in contact with the ground, however at the very least "treated" lumber should be used.
Is PT required for a contractor?
Curapa is right.#N#Check the building codes. PT is probably required. If so, then your contractor is building in violation of code and should be liable for most, if not all, cost difference to PT. He shouldn't be in business if he's going to quote un-treated when PT is required.#N#Good luck.
Can you keep a contractor on the job?
You need to stop your "contractor" right away and find a new one that knows what he's doing. The cost difference between PT and untreated fir is not that much. If you do decide to keep the same "contractor" on the job I would make him eat the cost, it is after all, his fault.
Is PT required for exterior applications?
Required or not, PT is needed for exterior applications. I would call him on it, you do not want to be paying someone else for the same project in a few years.
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 is pressure treated wood used for?
Generally, pressure treated (aka 'PT') wood is used in the construction of decks, pergolas, and sheds.
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).
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.
Does pressure treated lumber repel insects?
Rot Resistant & Repels Insects: The chemicals used to create pressure treated lumber prevent rot resistant but they also act as an insecticide; so, with PT wood, you receive a 2-for-1 deal.
How many inches should deck joists be?
Deck joists are typically spaced either every 12 inches or 16 inches on center. The maximum joist spacing you can use will depend on the size and allowable span of your joists.
Why Do I Need To Plan My Deck With The Right Joist Spacing?
It’s essential to plan your joist spans and joist spacing correctly - this makes sure your deck will meet building codes and makes it much quicker and easier to get the building permits you need to get started on your deck project. More important than all that, though: joist spacing and span requirements are based on tried-and-true industry standards, and they’re in place to make sure your deck is safe and structurally sound for you, your family, and your friends.
How many inches of joist spacing for 45 degree deck?
Composite decking brands also generally require 12 inches O.C.joist spacing for 45-degree or angled composite deck board applications. This ensures that
When Should You Replace Deck Joists
If you notice that something is wrong on your deck, but the exterior part seems okay, try to check its foundation for other problems. Over time, due to different weather conditions, the deck joist will gradually degrade and might not handle to support the deck.
How Long Does Wood Joists Last?
On average, the lifespan of high-quality joists and deck foundations can last more than a decade depending on the weather patterns in your area and how well you maintain it.
Signs for Deck Joists Replacement
If you want to replace the deck joists, it is necessary to replace other parts as well to maintain the overall quality of your deck and prolong its lifespan. Old materials that have mildews or molds on it can transfer to the new materials, causing the overall deck components to degrade faster.
Alternative Solutions
You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars to replace all the joists because of minor complications. Here are other actions you can do to save your deck.
Guide for Deck Joists Replacement
Consider changing the material of your joist and switch to more durable material such as wood composites and other pressure-treated woods. If you’re hesitant to replace all the deck joists, ask a professional to further examine the existing deck structure so they can thoroughly inspect the sturdiness of the joists.
How to Protect Your Deck Joists?
1. Add a deck ledger flashing. This material will stop the moisture to spread on the ledger and the joists, preventing further complications.
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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 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 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.
Does Lyons Lumber have pressure treated lumber?
Regardless of whether you need pressure treated or untreated lumber for your project, we have both types in stock in every size and shape here at Lyons Lumber Co .
Is lumber a staple in construction?
Lumber has always been a staple in the construction industry, and it’s becoming an ever-more popular material in homes and businesses. Lumber gives any space a contemporary yet luxurious and warm ambaince, but you may be worried about its sustainability.
Is pressure treated lumber good for a home?
When it comes to choosing the right lumber for a specific home project, the decision begins with the type of wood. All lumber, from the common 2x4 to specialty marine plywood, is either pressure treated or not. Pressure treated wood does last longer without rotting and resists insect damage, but it's not right for every purpose either.
Can you seal a deck without treated lumber?
Sealant to Increase Safety. Of course, sometimes you just can't build something safely without using pressure treated lumber. It's better to use treated lumber and know your deck will be secure in a few years than try to use untreated wood for the supports and watch them rot away rapidly.
Why Should Deck Joists Be Pressure Treated?
- Many contractors and home builders call using pressure-treated lumber for your deck joists the “logical choice.” It’s easy to see why. Deck joists form the backbone of your deck frame, the repeated board that forms the structural base of your desk that is then attached to a ledger with joist hangars. You don’t want to just pick any type of lumber t...
Other Materials to Consider
- In addition to pressure treating deck joists, many recommend using materials such as a wood protectant or joist tape, which both help protect the ends of lumber from damage caused by moisture. Joist tape, made of either asphalt that has been rubberized or butyl, can be placed on top of the joists to also protect it from water and deafen the transmission of sound. This is just …
Pressure-Treated Wood Ratings and One Big Thing to Avoid
- If you’ve settled on pressure-treated lumber, you may encounter its rating system. All pressure-treated lumber is rated, based on the preservative pounds retained in each cubic foot. What does it all mean? The higher the rating, the better the protection against moisture, insects, and fungi. Wood that’s used in areas where rot is more likely — like an outdoor deck — usually will contain …