Can Pressure Treated Wood Be Used For Picnic Tables

The most commonly used chemicals in the pressure treatment of wood today contain non toxic substances making it safe for use on picnic tables.

Can pressure treated wood be used for picnic tables.

Why is pressure treated wood thought to be harmful. Treated wood is used for decks mailbox and light posts swing sets and playscapes picnic tables landscape ties underwater dock pilings oceanside boardwalks telephone utility poles and believe it or not residential building foundations in some parts of the country. If in doubt just email the epa. The chemicals protect the wood from rotting mold and termites.

It is called pressure treated because manufacturers expose the wood to chemicals under high pressure conditions. I decided to email the epa and they replied back saying that most boards today that are treated with alkaline copper quatemary acq are allowed to be used for picnic tables benches and other outdoor structures. It s the wood used to build playground equipment home decks picnic tables residential fencing and patios. Use a scrub brush to remove dirt algae mildew and degraded wood fibers.

There were conflicting reports on whether or not it was safe enough to use for decking material to be walked on especially by kids but what everyone agreed on was that picnic tables were a no no because if the food came in contact with the pt pressure treated. This agreement was intended to protect the health of humans and the environment by reducing exposure to the arsenic in cca treated wood. For instance pinewood is a poor choice for a picnic table as it lacks durability and you can t clean spills easily from its surface. Best types of wood for picnic tables.

Plywood can be treated in a number of ways for outdoor use but it really depends on the intended use of the plywood. Clean the picnic table using a cleaner that has been recommended for use on treated wood. Pressure treated would used to have alot of arsenic not cyanide and was never very good. However you must not use treated wood for chopping boards or preparing any foodstuff.

Fortunately you can choose from an attractive array of stains clears and paints that will add years to the life of your picnic table. I recently emailed the epa to ask if treated lumber can be used for picnic tables. Semi transparent stains left completely untreated ultraviolet rays from the sun will cause exposed wood to lose its natural color turn gray and begin displaying longitudinal cracks. The best universal way to treat plywood for outdoor use is with spar urethane which will make the wood protected from water sunlight and temperature changes.