In applications where wood may be exposed to moisture, insects or fungal organisms, preservative-treated wood can help ensure a building’s durability. In this presentation, participants will learn about the manufacturing process for pressure-treated wood, available products and their differences, and how preserved wood is used in construction.

Topics include an overview of preservative treatments, desired service life and exposure conditions, AWPA Use Category standards and current issues concerning the safe use of treated wood. Participants will also receive instructions for free downloading of the Treated Lumber Guide smartphone/tablet app.

Learning Outcomes

• Describe how preservative-treated lumber is manufactured, the steps taken to assure proper quality control and the safety and effectiveness of preservative used today.
• Properly specify pressure-treated wood products using the American Wood Protection Association’s Use Category System.
• Recall Western Wood Preservers Institute’s Best Management Practices to safeguard the use of preserved wood and minimize any impacts on aquatic and other sensitive environments.
• Utilize approved environmental assessment tools to evaluate the impacts of the use of preservative-treated wood in aquatic and sensitive environments.

Funding provided in part by the Softwood Lumber Board.