this main supports on the stand for my 75 gallon will be 4x4's and my lowe's only has treated. now i am not terribly familiar with strength comparisons in different kinds of wood, but does the fact that it is treated in fact weaken the wood?
treated lumber for stands?
- Thread starter jworth
- Start date
No difference. They just put the lumber in a big autoclave and push the preservatives/pesticides into the lumber. I'd be careful about using it for a stand, though. You're not even supposed to touch PT lumber with your bare hands, even though we all do. Just consider any contamination route before buying it.
this will be the 4 main supports of the tank and thats it. None of the treated lumber will be exposed as I got wood siding to skin the entire outside.
I happen to work at a lumber pressure treatment plant and I know for a fact that the strength properties for 4x4 PT are the same as for 4x4 raw. I would suggest trying to get the highest grade possible though. Look at the grade stamps, if it says Standard and better I would pass and try to find some that are stamped #2 and better. There is a difference in the slope of grain and allowable knot sizes...#2 and better is stronger...don't let anyone tell you different..I have been grading lumber for fifteen years...so I have a little knowledge..
4x4 will be fine i have a stand built with pt lumber havent had a prob. u said itll be covered then ur good to go
i also just dont want to be letting toxic gases in the air even though the treated lumber will be covered. its only a 75 afterall, im sure it can hold the weight as I will have a few 2x4's bearing weight as well.
Ive used treated for much of the stands in my fishroom.painted over so I avoid contact.been in use for years.