Pine timber is a hugely popular material used in outdoor flooring construction. While using this material for outdoor flooring and decking, it is chemically treated for complete protection against decaying, pest infestation and other environmental factors that can be detrimental to wood. This material is more popular than others in Australia due to its affordability, easy availability and natural beauty. We have covered the benefits of treated pine in this article and some valuable tips on maintaining and extending the life of treated pine.

WHAT ARE THE STANDARD SIZES OF TREATED PINE DECKING?

Treated pine wood decking is available in different sizes at treated pine suppliers. You can choose from different sizes to suit your applications and design requirements. The most common sizes selected in Australia are reviewed below.

90 MM X 22 MM

This is the most common size chosen in terms of treated pine decking. It is a versatile size that can be used in most decking applications in residential and commercial projects.

140MM X 22MM

This is another versatile size used in treated pine decking and is ideal for larger decking areas. This size is primarily seen in verandas and balconies, as it provides a broader surface area for lounging and relaxing.

70MM X 22MM

70mm x 22mm is ideal for small decking areas where treated pine decking must be used. Treated pine suppliers recommend this size for pathways, garden steps, and fences, and it is also used for decking or raised garden beds.

190MM X 45MM

The largest size of treated pine decking available at treated pine suppliers is used for structural support beams and joists.

All these sizes are versatile and can vary slightly between different manufacturers and treated pine suppliers. Getting accurate details about the sizes from your nearest supplier is essential.

WHAT IS THE COST OF TREATED PINE DECKING?

The good news is that treated pine decking costs the lowest of all the materials used in deck construction. However, it varies a lot depending on the deck size, the quality of the treated pine, and the location of treated pine suppliers. For example, 70mm treated pine decking costs will be very low compared to 90mm x 22mm treated pine deck.

The best solution here is to get quotes from multiple suppliers and contractors to compare costs. This will give you a better idea of the most affordable supplier offering the best services.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF USING TREATED PINE FOR DECKING PURPOSES?

Treated pine is a hugely popular choice in Australia for outdoor spaces. This is majorly due to the benefits that this material offers.

IT IS A COST-EFFECTIVE CHOICE

Treated pine decking is generally more affordable than other decking materials and this is a significant reason why people prefer it over others. This is an affordable option for homeowners looking to get a robust decking built in front of the property.

EASY AVAILABILITY

The easy availability of treated pine at different treated pine suppliers is another primary reason it is preferred over others. It is widely available across Australia, which makes it more popular for decking projects. The fact is that you can purchase treated pine decking regardless of where you are in the country.

DURABILITY

If treated well without any compromise, treated pine can be a very durable and long-lasting material. It will be completely insect-resistant, rot-resistant and decay-resistant. These features mean it is a durable solution to use in outdoor spaces.

EASY TO WORK WITH

Treated pine is very easy to work with and can be handled through DIY as well. This feature contributes enormously towards the popularity of this material for decking and other outdoor projects. It is easy to cut, stain and carve, and this means, you will invest less time and effort in preparing and treating timber. Moreover, it is a renewable resource as government organisations regulate the pine plantation.

TREATED FOR ADDITIONAL DURABILITY

Treated pine gets its name because it is treated at high temperatures for complete protection against decaying and rotting. These factors ensure that the material will last longer than any other decking material in Australia.

HOW TO MAINTAIN TREATED PINE AND EXTEND ITS LIFE?

This wood is famous for decks, fences, sleepers, and other outdoor structures due to its strength, affordability, and resistance to rotting and pest infestation. Still, you will have to take some easy steps to maintain the beauty and functionality of this wood for the upcoming years. Some easy tips related to this are presented below.

UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE BEHIND TREATED PINE

The pinewood derived from sustainable forests undergoes a treatment process where preservatives are forced inside to make it durable and long-lasting. These preservatives ensure that it is resilient against factors like decaying, fungus, infections, insects, and similar culprits. The most common types of treatments are Micronized Copper Azole (MCA), also referred to as structural F5 treatment and millimetre glanded ply. The latter one is preferred, as it is a copper-based treatment that delivers excellent protection against termites and agents that speed up the decaying process. Treated pine suppliers recommend checking the treatment used on your treated pine before you use it for treated pine decking or applying stains or sealant.

QUICK TIPS TO MAINTAIN THE BEAUTY OF YOUR TREATED PINE

Here are some common steps taken to make treated pine’s beauty everlasting.

REGULAR CLEANING IS ESSENTIAL

It is essential to clean your treated pine decking deeply and thoroughly at least twice a year. This can be done using water with mild detergent mixed to remove dirt, grime and mildew. You must use a soft scrubbing brush to scrub the area gently and free it from stubborn dirt and dust.

LET TREATED PINE BREATHE

You must not cover your treated pine with tarps or plastics for extended periods. This is not recommended, as it can trap moisture and promote rotting. The chances of pest infestation will also increase if you keep your treated pine covered for too long.

TRIM THE VEGETATION

Another essential maintenance tip is to keep bushes, trees, and other plants away from the treated pine structure. Vegetation around this wood can promote moisture and make it a breeding ground for insects. You should also stain and seal the treated pine to maintain its aesthetics and provide added protection from elements.