About Pressure Treated Pine Decks

Many homeowners with deck structures have pressure treated wood that contains a compound known as Chromate Copper Arsenate, CCA for short. Many decks built with pressure treated lumber contain CCA (arsenic) which has been found by the EPA to be a health hazard. Properly cleaning and sealing decks, fences, playsets, and other wooden structures helps to protect consumers against exposure to CCA. While the purpose of this treatment was well intended, the result was potentially toxic to those who would come into contact with it more than just occasionally.

The EPA's December 12, 2001 report on this subject reads in part: "... Results of these studies as a whole support that surface coatings (applied after CCA treatment) are effective at reducing the quantities of dislogeable and leachable arsenic. Reductions of 70% to 90% in dislogeable arsenic were observed across the studies as CCA treated wood was subjected to natural weathering."

What types of coatings are most effective? While available data are very limited, some studies suggest that applying certain penetrating coatings (e.g., oil-based, semi-transparent stains) on a regular basis (e.g., once per year or every other year depending upon wear and weathering) may reduce the migration of wood preservative chemicals from CCA-treated wood.

In selecting a finish, consumers should be aware that, in some cases, "film-forming" or non-penetrating stains (latex semitransparent, latex opaque, and oil-based opaque stains) on outdoor surfaces such as decks and fences are not recommended, as subsequent peeling and flaking may ultimately have an impact on durability as well as exposure to the preservatives in the wood. Consumers also need to be aware of the VOC changes that went into effect in 2005. These changes have had an impact on the coatings industry, and on product performance.

Two of the most popular relatively new pressure treatments are ACQ-Alkaline Copper Quat, and CA-B copper azole, which contain fungicides and insecticides. Both ACQ and CA-B meet the requirements for wood that comes into ground contact, and provides protection from potential insect infestation.

Other types of new wood pressure treatments are available, but aren't as widely produced. To find out which type your deck may have been built with, ask a See Dirt Run!™ Inc. representative when receiving an estimate for your maintenance needs. To see how others feel about our services, click here for a client video testimonial.

Only tinted sealers and stains offer UV protection for your wood. Clear sealers offer no UV protection. Pressure washing your home's brick or siding is equally important, as are other wooden items such as fences, gazebos, and playground equipment. We're certified by the PWNA in Wood Restoration & Preservation.