Pressure treated wood is a popular choice for a variety of outdoor projects due to its durability and resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage. However, when it comes to sizing pressure treated wood to fit specific project requirements, many individuals wonder if it can be easily resized without compromising its integrity. In this article, we will explore the resizing possibilities for pressure treated wood and provide some guidance on how to achieve your desired specifications.
Understanding Pressure Treated Wood:
Before delving into the topic of resizing pressure treated wood, it is essential to understand its composition and treatment process. Pressure treated wood undergoes a treatment process whereby chemicals are forced into the wood under high pressure. This treatment ensures the wood’s resistance to rot, decay, and insects, making it ideal for various outdoor applications, such as decks, fences, and outdoor furniture.
Resizing Pressure Treated Wood:
While pressure treated wood can be resized to fit your specifications, it is crucial to consider a few factors before attempting any modifications. Let’s consider some common techniques for resizing pressure treated wood.
1. Cutting:
One of the most common ways to resize pressure treated wood is through cutting. Whether you need to shorten a board’s length or trim its width, cutting allows you to achieve the desired dimensions. However, it is crucial to take necessary precautions when cutting pressure treated wood:
a. Safety First: Always wear protective gear, such as safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask, when working with pressure treated wood. The chemicals used during the treatment process can be harmful if inhaled or exposed to the skin.
b. Use Proper Tools: Ensure that you use tools specifically designed for cutting pressure treated wood, such as a circular saw or a miter saw with a carbide-tipped blade. These tools are best suited for making clean and accurate cuts.
c. Treat Cut Edges: After cutting pressure treated wood, it is essential to treat the fresh cuts with a wood preservative or a high-quality end-cut solution. This step helps maintain the wood’s resistance to decay by sealing off exposed areas.
2. Shaping and Planing:
In some cases, you may need to resize pressure treated wood by creating complex shapes or smooth surfaces. This can be achieved through shaping and planing techniques:
a. Shaping: To shape pressure treated wood, use tools such as a jigsaw or a router. However, keep in mind that reshaping pressure treated wood might expose untreated areas. As a result, reapplication of a wood preservative to those areas is crucial to maintain the wood’s integrity.
b. Planing: Planing is useful when you need to resize the thickness of the pressure treated wood. It involves using a thickness planer, a tool designed to remove thin layers of wood to achieve the desired thickness. Planing pressure treated wood requires proper ventilation due to potential chemical vapors released during the process. Additionally, treating planed surfaces with a wood preservative is necessary to ensure full protection.
Pressure treated wood can be resized to fit your specifications using various techniques such as cutting, shaping, and planing. However, it is essential to take cautionary measures, considering the chemicals used during the wood treatment process. Always prioritize safety by wearing protective gear and using appropriate tools. Treating fresh cuts with a wood preservative and applying extra care to any exposed untreated areas will help maintain the wood’s resistance to decay and ensure its longevity. By following these guidelines, you can successfully resize pressure treated wood to meet your project’s requirements while preserving its durability and longevity.