Pressure treatment, using antimicrobial preservatives can help extend the life of wood products used in outdoor construction such as decks, gazebos, and landscaping projects. The preservatives help control degradation from rot, fungal decay, and termite attack. Wood is a natural and sustainable building product. Wood products store carbon, reducing the amount of carbon in the atmosphere. Trees naturally control the concentration of carbon by absorbing and using it.
May is Deck Safety Month®, an initiative led by NADRA, the North American Deck and Railing Association. Decks continue to be a popular addition to homes, providing outdoor space for entertaining and relaxing. Data from NADRA indicates that many decks are past their useful life and need to be repaired or replaced. With spring in full swing, many people are looking forward to spending more time outdoors on their decks.
How Antimicrobial Preservatives Work to Prevent Deck Deterioration
Several types of antimicrobial chemistries are used as wood preservatives. These antimicrobial preservatives are applied in a closed system treatment cylinder in a process called pressure treatment. The pressure-treating process involves forcing preservatives into the wood cells. Following treatment, samples of treated wood are tested for proper preservative penetration and retention. The level of preservative retention determines the end-use category of the treated wood product.
Here are three ways that antimicrobial preservatives contribute to deck longevity:
- Helps to Prevent Mold/Mildew Growth, Reduce Rot, and Prevent Insect Attacks: Decks are often exposed to moisture, soil, and debris, creating ideal conditions for mold, mildew, or fungi to grow. Using pressure-treated wood can deter insects and prevent microorganisms from colonizing the deck's materials, protecting it from decay and deterioration.
- Helps to Enhance Durability: By protecting against microbial growth, preservatives can help prevent degradation, or other forms of damage that may occur due to microbial colonization. This helps the deck materials maintain their natural beauty and structural integrity.
- Improves Long-Term Performance: By incorporating pressure-treated wood into a deck, homeowners can help ensure that their outdoor structure remains in good condition for years to come. Pressure-treated wood can provide long-lasting protection against microbial growth, helping to extend the deck’s life and reduce the need for costly repairs or replacements in the future.
Deck Safety Month® is the perfect time to check for any damage or rotten wood before you use your deck for summer fun. If you are considering replacing or repairing your deck, pressure-treated wood is an excellent option.
The Center for Biocide Chemistries is comprised of more than 50 companies that manufacture and/or formulate biocide products (also known as antimicrobials or antimicrobial pesticides). To learn more about how wood preservatives and other types of antimicrobial products contribute to improved human health and environmental sustainability, visit our website.
