Treated Pine as an Alternative to Imported Hardwoods

Merbau or kwila is one of the most versatile and durable hardwoods available to builders in Australia. It’s cheaper than locally sourced hardwoods and it’s a natural choice when a job calls for timber outdoors. Treated pine isn’t a choice builders normally go for on outdoor projects, but that’s been changing in the past few years.

Pine has many benefits over Merbau, the main benefit being that it’s grown locally and sustainably in Australia and it’s also one of the cheaper timbers available on the market. It’s become a serious contender in the popularity stakes for outdoor projects.

But is it really as good as Merbau? If you get the right H rating it is – and a pine timber supplier on the Gold Coast can help you to determine that.

What is Treated Pine?

Pine timber that is preservative-treated and deeply impregnated with insecticide and fungicide is typically referred to as treated pine. The treatment of the wood makes it resistant to pests and decay, outlasting many hardwood timbers.

Treated pine is first seasoned, or kiln dried, before high pressure is applied to the timber containing chemicals.

Where Can Treated Pine Be Used?

Treated pine is ideal for outdoor use on decks, fencing, retaining walls, cladding and pergolas. Treated pine can also be used internally where humidity or a high risk of termites may exist.

What’s an H Rating?

An H rating refers to the Hazard class of the treated pine and has six levels from H1 to H6 or H6SW with different chemicals used to define the resilience of the timber. H1 class treated pine timber is designed for in-home and above-ground use whilst H6 and H6SW are marine grade timbers that can be used on boats and underwater for jetties and landings.

Will Paints or Stains Affect the Durability of Treated Pine?

Neither acrylic nor water-based paints will negatively impact on the durability of treated pine, but leaving treated pine unfinished and exposed to the elements will change its appearance to a grey and expose checks or cracks in the wood.

Acrylic paints do tend to be more durable in protecting treated pine and have the added benefit of drying quickly for shorter re-coating times so that projects can be completed more efficiently.

Talk to your timber supplier for the best advice on selecting treated pine for your outdoor timber project. Both UV rays and high exposure to moisture can be addressed with the right kind of paint and even the colour.

Do I Need to Use Special Hardware on Treated Pine?

Like any wood, the location of your treated pine timber and the function of the hardware will determine what you use. Coastal areas will call for more rust-resistant stainless steel hardware whereas hot-dipped galvanised steel fixings are suitable in most other areas.

Your timber supply specialist can help you determine exactly which hardware to use.

Can I Burn Treated Pine?

The answer is no – it’s been treated with chemicals that are stable when the wood is solid but less so when they become airborne.

It’s also important to wear a face mask when sawing treated pine as well as gloves, You should also brush off any sawdust and wash your hands thoroughly before eating.

How Can I Determine Which Treated Pine Best Suits My Project?

Aussie Timbers can help you figure out which treated pine timber H rating will best suit your project. For the best advice on the right product call (07) 5596 3636 or email admin@aussietimbers.com.au.