The type of nail that can be used on pressure treated wood depends on the type of wood and the application. For wood that will be exposed to the outdoors, stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized nails are typically the best choices.
Hot-dipped galvanized nails have a coating of zinc that helps prevent corrosion, while stainless steel is naturally corrosion-resistant. If the pressure-treated wood will only be used indoors, coated or uncoated carbon steel nails are generally a better option.
No matter what type of nail is used, it is important to countersink the nails slightly so that the heads are not proud above the wood surface. This helps ensure that no moisture gets trapped near the nail heads.
Additionally, any nails used in pressure-treated wood must be at least as corrosion-resistant as the fasteners accompanying the wood treatment.
Does pressure treated wood corrode nails?
Pressure treated wood can corrode nails, depending on the type of pressure treated wood and type of nails. The most commonly used type of pressure treated wood is with a chemical preservative called CCA (Chromated Copper Arsenate).
This type of wood can corrode nails faster than other types of wood, so it is important to use hot-dipped galvanized, stainless steel, or aluminum nails with CCA treated wood. Simply put, CCA treated wood has trace amounts of copper and chromium which can interact with the metals in nails and cause corrosion.
On the other hand, the newer pressure treated wood preservative, ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary), does not contain copper and chromium, so it does not corrode nails as quickly as CCA. If you are using ACQ pressure treated wood, it is recommended to use hot-dipped galvanized nails for the best results.
Is it OK to use galvanized nails in treated lumber?
It depends on the type of treated lumber and what you are using it for. Generally, it is best to avoid using galvanized nails in pressure-treated lumber as there is a risk of corrosion. This is because galvanized nails contain small amounts of iron, which can react with the chemicals used to treat the wood, leading to corrosion.
Galvanized nails can be used with cedar and redwood lumber, as the chemicals used to treat them are not often corrosive. However, it is best to contact the manufacturer of the treated lumber to determine whether galvanized nails can be used with their product.
When should you not use galvanized nails?
Galvanized nails should not be used in any areas where the nail will come in contact with treated lumber or in any environment where there will be a lot of moisture or direct contact with water. Galvanized nails can cause staining and discoloration of treated lumber and, over time, can lead to rot and corrosion due to the galvanization process.
Additionally, galvanized nails are not recommended for coastal or pool decking applications as the salt water and chlorine can potentially corrode the nail. Finally, galvanized nails are not suitable for use in certain roofing or siding projects as their size and shape will not properly adhere to the roof or siding material.
Can you use galvanized nails on a deck?
Yes, in some cases you can use galvanized nails on a deck. Galvanized nails are made from a steel alloy and are treated with a protective coating of zinc that helps to protect them from corrosion and rust.
This makes them ideal for outdoor applications, such as on decks. However, it’s important to note that not all galvanized nails are appropriate for use on a deck. If the nail gauge isn’t the proper size for the type of deck board you’re using, it could cause the board to splinter or pull away from the frame.
Additionally, galvanized nails are known for leaving discoloration on decking materials, so be sure to use them sparingly and inspect them regularly for signs of corrosion. It may also be wise to consider other options such as stainless steel or coated composite nails that are specifically designed for decking applications.
Is galvanized OK for pressure treated?
Yes, galvanized materials are an appropriate material to use with pressure treated lumber. Galvanization is a process of coating metal with a thin layer of zinc, which provides added protection against corrosion and prevents the metal from rusting.
When utilized with pressure treated lumber, galvanization helps better protect the structural integrity of the wood. Additionally, galvanized hardware is corrosion-resistant and prevents the wood from becoming damaged due to harsh weathering conditions.
For the highest level of protection, galvanized screws, nails and bolts are recommended for use with pressure treated lumber.
Are stainless steel screws good for treated lumber?
Yes, stainless steel screws are a great choice for treated lumber. This is because stainless steel screws are highly corrosion-resistant and able to stand up to long-term exposure to moisture, making them ideal for treated lumber.
Treated lumber is designed for outdoor use and is treated with chemicals to make it more resistant to decaying organisms, so it is important to use a corrosion-resistant fastener like stainless steel to ensure the structural integrity of your project.
Stainless steel screws are also extremely strong and can provide a secure fastening point even under frequent use or heavy loads. Additionally, stainless steel screws won’t rust or discolor the wood, so they can be used in a wide variety of outdoor applications.
Overall, stainless steel screws are an excellent choice for treated lumber.
What should I put between treated wood and metal?
When installing treated wood and metal together, it is important to use a material that will provide a layer of protection against moisture and corrosion. A rubber washer or other non-conductive material should be used as a barrier between the two materials.
This buffers the two components, creating a seal and preventing moisture from seeping through to the metal. Additionally, some caulk can be applied to the joint to further protect against moisture and leakage, keeping the wood from rotting away from water and helping to slow down the onset of rust.
Taking such measures when putting in treated wood and metal will provide increased longevity for the joint.
Does stainless steel react with pressure-treated wood?
Stainless steel generally does not react with pressure treated wood. Pressure-treated wood is typically infused with chemicals such as copper, chromium, and arsenic that help to preserve the wood by protecting it from the elements.
While some metals will corrode when exposed to these chemicals, stainless steel is much better suited to the environment and is naturally resistant to corrosion. As a result, there is very little likelihood of any reaction occurring between stainless steel and pressure-treated wood.
However, it should be noted that stainless steel may discolor from contact with certain chemicals present in pressure-treated wood, so it is important to regularly check for signs of discoloration after installation.
What type of screws are for outdoor use?
Outdoor screws are typically designed for use outdoors and are therefore made from materials that resist corrosion and can endure weather elements. Common outdoor screw materials include stainless steel, galvanized steel, and coated steel screws.
These materials offer weather protection from rain, snow, and heat, and the galvanization helps protect against the elements of nature that include extreme temperatures, wind-driven rain, salt air, and more.
The types of screws that are best suited for outdoor applications depend on the job you are completing. For example, lag screws are great for attaching posts and large beams, but might not be the best choice for securing small outdoor objects, such as outdoor lighting fixtures.
Drywall screws are also not suitable for outdoor projects because they are not corrosion resistant. For the best results, make sure to select the right type of screws for the specific project you are completing.