LumberCalcs: The Straight-Grain Figures for the Hand-Hewn Builder
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Pressure-Treated Pine

For deck framing, fence posts, and structural outdoor work where strength and cost matter more than natural appearance.

Runner-up: Western Red Cedar · Retake the quiz

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Why this fits you

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  • You need a structural, load-bearing outdoor member (deck framing, posts).
  • Cost matters and you don\'t need a premium natural appearance.
  • The piece will typically be painted, stained, or hidden rather than left showcase-natural.
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Pressure-treated (PT) pine is chemically treated to resist rot, fungal decay, and insect damage, making it the standard, economical choice for deck framing, fence posts, and other structural outdoor lumber in the US. It\'s stronger and typically cheaper than naturally rot-resistant species like cedar, though its greenish tint and visible treatment marks make it less popular for showcase, highly visible surfaces without a finish.

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How it compares

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OptionBest forDurabilityCost
Pressure-Treated PineDeck framing, posts, structural outdoor useChemically treated for rot/insect resistance$
Western Red CedarOutdoor furniture, fencingNaturally rot/insect resistant$$
RedwoodPremium decking, siding, furnitureNaturally rot/insect resistant$$$
IpeHigh-end deckingExtremely dense, rot/insect resistant, 25+ year lifespan$$$$
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Buying checklist

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  • Check the treatment\'s rated use category (ground contact vs. above-ground) matches your application -- posts in the ground need a higher-rated treatment
  • Let PT lumber dry before painting or staining if it feels wet -- freshly treated lumber often needs time to dry out first
  • Use fasteners and hardware rated for contact with treated lumber, since the chemicals can corrode standard steel faster than with untreated wood
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Run the numbers

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Wood Weight CalculatorLumber Cost Calculator
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Frequently asked questions

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Is pressure-treated lumber safe to use?

Modern PT lumber uses treatments approved for residential use, but general precautions still apply: wear gloves when handling, don\'t burn scraps, and wash hands after working with it.

Can I use above-ground rated PT lumber for fence posts?

No -- posts set in the ground need ground-contact rated treatment, which has a higher retention level than above-ground rated lumber; using the wrong rating shortens the post\'s service life significantly.

Why does PT lumber need special fasteners?

The chemical treatment can accelerate corrosion in standard steel fasteners, so hot-dipped galvanized or stainless fasteners rated for treated-lumber contact are recommended.

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Other Which Wood for My Project Finder results

Western Red CedarRedwoodIpe (Brazilian Hardwood)
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