Is Pressure Treated Wood Safe for Outdoor Furniture?

Is Pressure Treated Wood Safe for Outdoor Furniture?

Pressure treated wood is a type of wood that has been treated with chemical preservatives to protect it from insects, rot, and decay. It is commonly used in outdoor furniture and other outdoor structures such as decks, porches, and sheds. While treated wood is typically durable and long-lasting, there are still some health concerns associated with its use.

The main concern with pressure treated wood is the chemicals used to treat it. These chemicals can be toxic if they come into contact with humans or animals.

The most common preservative used on pressure treated wood is chromated copper arsenate (CCA), which contains arsenic and chromium. Ingestion of these chemicals can lead to a variety of health issues including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and even cancer.

In addition to the health concerns associated with CCA-treated wood, there are also environmental concerns. The chemicals used in pressure treating wood can leach into nearby soil or water, potentially contaminating them. Since pressure treated wood is often used near bodies of water such as lakes or rivers, this poses an even greater risk for contamination.

Fortunately, newer methods for pressure treating wood have been developed that do not contain CCA or other toxic chemicals. These methods use compounds such as amine copper quat (ACQ) or copper azole (CA). While these compounds are still considered to be toxic if ingested, they are much less hazardous than CCA-treated wood.

Conclusion:

Overall, while pressure treated wood can be a great choice for outdoor furniture due to its durability and longevity, it’s important to consider the potential health risks associated with its use. To minimize these risks it’s important to use newer methods that don’t contain CCA or other toxic chemicals when possible.

Photo of author

Jennifer Watson