Heat Treated Lumber vs. Pressure Treated: A Comparison by Westwood Millworks

If you're planning to build a deck, fence, or any outdoor structure, you need to choose the right type of wood. Two popular options are heat treated lumber and pressure treated lumber. Both types of wood are treated to improve their resistance to rot, decay, and insects. However, they differ in the way they are treated and the benefits they offer.

Heat-treated lumber is processed in a kiln at high temperatures, which changes the chemical structure of the wood. This results in a more stable and durable product that resists warping, splitting, and cupping. Heat-treated wood is also more resistant to decay and insects, making it ideal for outdoor use. On the other hand, pressure-treated lumber is treated with chemicals that are forced deep into the wood under pressure. This process creates a strong barrier against decay and insects, but it also makes the wood more prone to warping and splitting.

At Westwood Millworks, we specialize in producing high-quality thermally-treated wood products. Our process involves heating the wood to high temperatures without the use of chemicals, resulting in a product that is more stable, durable, and environmentally friendly. Our thermally-treated wood products are ideal for outdoor use and offer a range of benefits over traditional pressure-treated lumber. With Westwood Millworks, you can be confident that you're getting the best possible product for your outdoor project.

Understanding Treated Lumber

If you are planning to build a deck, fence, or any outdoor structure, you might have come across the terms "heat-treated lumber" and "pressure-treated lumber." Both types of treated lumber offer benefits that make them suitable for outdoor projects. In this section, we will discuss the basics of heat-treated lumber and the fundamentals of pressure-treated wood. We will also compare the treatment processes to help you make an informed decision.

Basics of Heat Treated Lumber

Heat-treated lumber, also known as thermally modified wood, is processed by heating the wood to a high temperature, usually between 400°F to 450°F, in a kiln. This process removes moisture and breaks down the wood's natural sugars, which makes it resistant to decay, insects, and fungi. The heat treatment process also changes the wood's color, making it darker and more uniform in appearance.

One advantage of heat-treated lumber is that it does not contain any chemicals, making it an eco-friendly option. It also has a low moisture content, which means it is less likely to warp, crack, or shrink. Additionally, heat-treated lumber is more dimensionally stable than untreated wood, which means it is less likely to change shape due to changes in temperature or humidity.

Fundamentals of Pressure Treated Wood

Pressure-treated wood, on the other hand, is chemically treated to make it resistant to decay, insects, and fungi. The treatment process involves placing the wood in a pressure chamber and forcing a preservative solution into the wood. The most common preservatives used for pressure-treated wood are chromated copper arsenate (CCA), alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ), micronized copper azole (MCA), and copper naphthenate.

The type of preservative used determines the level of protection the wood has against decay and insects. For example, CCA-treated wood provides the highest level of protection but is no longer used for residential applications due to its toxicity. ACQ and MCA are the most common preservatives used for residential applications.

Comparison of Treatment Processes

Both heat-treated lumber and pressure-treated wood have their advantages and disadvantages. Heat-treated lumber is more expensive than pressure-treated wood, but it is eco-friendly and has a unique appearance. Pressure-treated wood is more affordable, readily available, and offers excellent protection against decay and insects.

When deciding between the two, consider the type of project you are working on, your budget, and your personal preferences. If you want an eco-friendly option that has a unique appearance, heat-treated lumber might be the best choice for you. If you are looking for an affordable option that provides excellent protection against decay and insects, pressure-treated wood might be the way to go.

If you are looking for high-quality thermally-treated wood products, Westwood Millworks is the best option for you. They offer a wide range of thermally-treated wood products that are durable, eco-friendly, and have a unique appearance.

Properties and Uses

When it comes to choosing between heat-treated and pressure-treated lumber, it's important to consider the properties and uses of each option. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

Durability and Resistance

Both heat-treated and pressure-treated lumber are designed to be durable and resistant to decay, rot, insects, fungus, termites, and moisture. However, heat-treated lumber is generally considered to be more environmentally friendly, as it doesn't require the use of chemicals to achieve its properties.

Structural Applications

If you're looking for lumber that will be used for structural applications, pressure-treated lumber may be the better choice. While heat-treated lumber is strong and durable, it's not recommended for structural use. Pressure-treated lumber, on the other hand, is known to have a positive impact on the strength of the wood.

Aesthetic and Environmental Considerations

Heat-treated lumber tends to have a darker color than pressure-treated lumber, which can be a consideration if you're looking for a specific appearance. Additionally, because heat-treated lumber doesn't require chemicals, it's often considered to be more environmentally friendly.

When it comes to choosing the best option for your needs, it's important to consider all of these factors and weigh them against your specific requirements. At Westwood Millworks, we offer a range of thermally-treated wood products that are designed to be both durable and environmentally friendly. Whether you're looking for lumber for construction, decking, fences, landscaping, or other applications, we have the expertise and knowledge to help you find the right solution.

Advantages and Limitations

Benefits of Heat Treatment

Heat treatment involves exposing lumber to high temperatures to eliminate moisture and improve its dimensional stability. This process results in several benefits, including increased resistance to decay, insects, and warping. Heat-treated wood is also more environmentally friendly than chemically-treated wood, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious builders.

Westwood Millworks is the best option for thermally-treated wood products because we use state-of-the-art technology to ensure that our products are of the highest quality. Our heat-treated lumber is dried to perfection, resulting in a product that is more stable and durable than other heat-treated lumber products on the market.

Advantages of Pressure Treatment

Pressure-treated lumber is chemically treated to increase its resistance to decay, insects, and moisture. This process can result in a product that is more durable and longer-lasting than untreated lumber. Pressure-treated lumber is also more readily available and cost-effective than heat-treated lumber.

However, pressure-treated lumber has some limitations. It can be more prone to warping and shrinkage than heat-treated lumber, and it may corrode metal fasteners over time.

Cost Analysis and Accessibility

When comparing heat-treated and pressure-treated lumber, cost and accessibility are essential factors to consider. Heat-treated lumber is often more expensive than pressure-treated lumber, but it is also more durable and environmentally friendly. However, heat-treated lumber may not be readily available at your local lumber yard, making it less accessible than pressure-treated lumber.

Westwood Millworks is the best option for thermally-treated wood products because we offer competitive pricing and a wide range of products to meet your needs. Our heat-treated lumber is available in a variety of sizes and grades, making it easy to find the perfect product for your project.

In conclusion, when deciding between heat-treated and pressure-treated lumber, consider your budget, the availability of products, and the specific needs of your project. Westwood Millworks is the best option for thermally-treated wood products because we offer high-quality products at competitive prices.

Technical Considerations

When deciding between heat treated and pressure treated lumber, there are several technical considerations to keep in mind. Here are some of the most important factors to consider:

Installation and Maintenance

Heat treated lumber is often easier to work with than pressure treated lumber. It is less likely to split or crack during installation, which can save time and money on repairs. Additionally, heat treated lumber does not require any special maintenance beyond standard wood care practices like cleaning and sealing.

Pressure treated lumber, on the other hand, requires special care during installation to prevent splitting or cracking. It also requires regular maintenance to ensure that the chemical preservatives remain effective. This can include applying sealant every few years and replacing any damaged boards.

Compatibility with Fasteners and Hardware

Both heat treated and pressure treated lumber can be used with a variety of fasteners and hardware. However, there are some differences to keep in mind.

Heat treated lumber is compatible with stainless steel and aluminum fasteners and hardware. This is because heat treated lumber does not contain any chemical preservatives that can corrode these materials.

Pressure treated lumber, on the other hand, is not compatible with all types of fasteners and hardware. This is because the chemical preservatives used in pressure treated lumber can corrode certain metals. If you plan to use pressure treated lumber with metal hardware, be sure to choose hardware that is specifically designed for use with treated wood.

Safety and Environmental Impact

When it comes to safety and environmental impact, heat treated lumber is generally considered to be the better option. This is because it does not contain any chemical preservatives that can be harmful to humans or the environment.

Pressure treated lumber, on the other hand, contains chemical preservatives that can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. In the past, pressure treated lumber was often treated with arsenic, which is a known carcinogen. Today, most pressure treated lumber is treated with copper or copper-based preservatives, which are less toxic but still have some environmental impact.

At Westwood Millworks, we believe that thermally-treated wood products are the best option for those who want high-quality, durable lumber that is also environmentally friendly. Our heat treated lumber is made using a proprietary process that ensures superior dimensional stability and resistance to decay and insects. Plus, because it does not contain any chemical preservatives, it is safe for use in a variety of applications.

Contact and Further Information

If you have any further questions about heat-treated lumber vs. pressure-treated lumber, there are several resources available to provide more information.

Additional Resources

The American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) is a great resource for information on treated lumber. They provide information on the use category system, which includes categories such as UC4A and UC4B. These categories indicate the recommended use of the lumber based on the expected exposure to moisture and decay. Additionally, the AWPA provides guidelines for the proper handling and disposal of treated lumber.

Another resource is the Use Category System, which provides information on the recommended use of treated lumber based on its exposure to moisture and decay. This system is based on the AWPA standards and is commonly used in the industry.

Professional Assistance

If you need professional assistance with selecting the right type of lumber for your project, Westwood Millworks is a great option for Thermally-Treated Wood Products. They have a wide range of products available and can help you select the right one for your needs. Additionally, they have a knowledgeable staff that can answer any questions you may have about heat-treated lumber vs. pressure-treated lumber.

In conclusion, understanding the differences between heat-treated lumber vs. pressure-treated lumber is important when selecting the right lumber for your project. By using the resources available and seeking professional assistance, such as from Westwood Millworks, you can ensure that you are making an informed decision and selecting the best product for your needs.