Does water-borne treated lumber need to be painted, stained, or waterproofed?
A. A water repellent sealer should be applied to slow initial shrinkage as the wood comes into equilibrium with the environment (see manufacturer’s recommendations for details on application). Many treated-wood products are now available with water repellence built in through the addition of water repellents to the preservative solution. Treated wood should be cleaned and re-sealed yearly to maintain optimum appearance. Unprotected treated lumber will begin to change color as a result of the wood’s reaction to ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. Sealants with UV inhibitors will slow the color change.
. A water repellent sealer should be applied to slow initial shrinkage as the wood comes into equilibrium with the environment (see manufacturer’s recommendations for details on application). Many treated-wood products are now available with water repellence built in through the addition of water repellents to the preservative solution. Treated wood should be cleaned and re-sealed yearly to maintain optimum appearance. Unprotected treated lumber will begin to change color as a result of the wood’s reaction to ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun. Sealants with UV inhibitors will slow the color change.
