Thoughts on non-treated wooden studs

[andreascarlsson]

I am building a deck and have come across a batch of new joists, which are not treated.

Considerations:
- How should I handle these to ensure the longest possible lifespan?
- Do I need to paint or oil them, or both?

 

[Janus82]

You cannot use them to build the frame for the deck. Too much standing water accumulates for them to last. However, they work excellently for windbreaks or fences if you paint them with exterior paint.

 

[Kane]

You can't use them to build the framework of the deck. Too much standing water accumulates for them to last. They work excellently for a windbreak or fence, though, if you paint them with facade paint.

Depends on the choice of facade paint. For example, acrylic paint should not be used all around on timber.

 

[Liljeros]

I am building a deck and have come across a batch of new beams, which are not treated.

Questions:
- How should I handle these for the longest possible lifespan?
- Do I need to paint or oil them, or both?

For a ground-level deck in a dark location, they are not suitable, but if you are building a higher and airier structure in a bright location, they can often work almost as well as treated wood. Make sure to oil the end grain with some impregnating oil or something similar and consider casting slightly higher concrete pillars. Paint does not extend the lifespan but rather the opposite.

 

[Workingclasshero]

Hello
Apply tar paper on carrier beams and floor joists to keep it dry.
/W