How to Finish Pressure Treated Wood

CCA (chromated copper arsenate) is used to pressure treat lumber to prevent it from decaying however, this does not prevent the wood from weathering which is why painting or staining is a must. To prevent cracking and splitting, oil or latex stains provide the best results.

1. Apply preservative. After you have completed your project, allow the wood to dry for at least two months. The wood must be very dry to allow the stain or paint to penetrate the pressure treated wood
2.  Sand. Sand the wood by hand to remove any splinters as pressure treated wood tends to have more splintering than non treated wood.
3. Add Fungicide. Pressure treating does not prevent surface infestation of mold and mildew. To prevent these issues, add fungicide to the paint or stain you are going to use.
4. Paint and stain. From this point on, paint or stain the wood as you would ordinary wood by following the directions provided with the product.