What is Awpa U1?
“AWPA U1” signifies that the wood is treated in accordance with AWPA Standard U1, the primary specification for treated wood. The AWPA Use Category designation (for example, “UC2”, “UC3B”, “UC4A”, etc. – see below for descriptions) indicates the proper usage of the treated wood product.
What are Awpa standards?
AWPA Standards are developed by its technical committees in an ANSI accredited consensus-based process that involves individuals from all facets of wood preservation: Producers of preservatives and preservative components; producers of treated and untreated wood products; end users of treated wood; engineers.
What are the different grades of treated lumber?
Pressure-treated lumber comes in 5 different grades: Premium, Select, and Number 1, 2, and 3. The higher the grade, the fewer the knots, splits, and general defects. For constructing a backyard deck, Number 2 or higher grade boards are required by code and are preferred by experienced carpenters.
What is micronized copper azole?
Micronized Copper Azole (MCA) is a copper-based wood preservative used in the pressure treatment of wood products for use in residential applications above ground, in ground contact or in freshwater contact.
Is MCA treated wood safe for vegetable gardens?
Arsenic Compounds Wood treated with CCA or chromated copper arsenate can leach arsenic, a very toxic compound. Plants growing in the garden bed may take up the chemicals. CCA-treated lumber shouldn’t be used for raised beds and restricted to construction work only.
What is EL2 wood?
Ecolife™ Stabilized Weather-Resistant Wood (EL2) is an innovative preservative, designed to fully protect Above-Ground pressure-treated wood used in outdoor projects against decay and termite attack, and enhance the beauty of your outdoor living space.
What is the best treated lumber for deck?
Pressure-treated lumber is the best wood for outdoor decks when it comes to upfront costs because of its easy accessibility. However, pressure-treated lumber — and indeed, all types of traditional wood decking material — require the aforementioned rigorous, costly maintenance over time.
What is the difference between green and brown pressure treated wood?
Brown timber is a traditional dark brown coloured wood, which follows the same pressure treated process as green timber to extend the timbers life but the only difference is to achieve the brown colour, a brown dye is added to the copper preservative mix.