Can You Use Pressure Treated Wood for Outdoor Furniture?

Using pressure-treated wood for outdoor furniture can be a great way to bring a stylish and classic look to your patio or garden. Though the process of pressure treating wood can make it more durable, it is important to consider the long-term effects as well. Pressure treated wood is chemically treated with preservatives such as copper and chromium that help protect it from rot and insect damage, making it an ideal choice for outdoor use.

The type of pressure-treated wood used for outdoor furniture is typically southern yellow pine, which has been treated with a preservative containing copper and chromium. This chemical combination helps protect the wood from decay and insect damage, making it an excellent choice for outdoor furniture. The treatment also makes the wood more resistant to water absorption, meaning it will last longer in humid climates.

Pressure treating wood doesn’t just increase its durability; it also adds aesthetic appeal to outdoor furniture. The preservatives used in the treatment process give the wood a unique color that can be used to create attractive patterns and accents on furniture pieces. These treatments also allow for a more consistent finish with fewer blemishes than untreated woods.

While pressure-treated wood is ideal for outdoor furniture due to its durability, there are some drawbacks to consider before using this material. The preservatives used in pressure treating can be toxic if ingested or inhaled in large quantities, so children should not play near or handle pieces made from this type of wood without adult supervision.

Additionally, pressure treated woods tend to be more expensive than other types of woods due to the additional cost of chemical treatments. It is also important to note that this type of material may require additional maintenance such as staining or painting to keep its appearance over time.

Overall, pressure-treated wood is an excellent choice for creating stylish and durable outdoor furniture. Its chemical treatment makes it resistant to decay and insect damage while its unique coloration allows you to create beautiful patterns on your pieces. However, there are some potential risks associated with using this material so it’s important to weigh these carefully before deciding if this type of wood is right for your particular project.

Conclusion: In conclusion, pressure-treated wood is an excellent choice for outdoor furniture due its durability and attractive appearance when properly maintained. However, there are certain risks associated with using this material so it’s important to consider them before committing yourself to using it on your project.

Photo of author

Chris Powell