How to Paint Pressure-Treated Wood - Bob Vila can you paint pressure treated lumber?

The same treatment that allows the material to last outdoors can cause problems when painting pressure-treated wood.The lumber used to make pressure-treated wood is saturated with a chemical.The chemicals reduce the wood's vulnerability to insects and rot, but they also leave it wet, which will eventually lead to your coat of paint peeling.To paint pressure-treated wood successfully, you need to be patient.

It is pointless to paint before the wood is ready.Follow the instructions below for lasting results.

It is important to clean pressure-treated wood before painting it.Use soapy water to clean the brush.Once you have given your attention to the entire surface, rinse off the wood and allow it to dry.

The drying time may be as long as a few weeks, depending on how the lumber is treated and the water used to clean it.How do you know when it is ready?Sprinkle water on the wood after it feels dry.The wood can be painted if the water soaks in.Go back to playing the waiting game if the water beads up.For a time-sensitive project, it is wise to choose pressure-treated wood marked as having been kiln-dried after treatment.The time it takes to paint KDAT wood is much shorter.

You cannot begin painting pressure-treated wood until you confirm that it is dry.Make sure the manufacturer lists the coating as suitable for use on pressure-treated wood, if you start with primer formulated for exteriors.If the job entails detail work, opt for a brush or both if you want to paint pressure-treated wood.