Southern Pine’s ease of treatability has made it the preferred species when pressure treatment with wood preservatives is required. The unique cellular structure of Southern Pine permits deep and uniform penetration of preservatives, rendering the wood useless as a food source for fungi, termites and micro-organisms. Research shows that Southern Pine can be expected to last for many decades when properly treated and installed for its intended use.

Modern science has developed preservative treatments that are odorless and colorless, and leave the wood paintable and dry to the touch. Treatment with preservatives protects wood that is exposed to the elements, in contact with the ground or subjected to high humidity.

Industry quality-control standards for the manufacture and preservation of Southern Pine ensure long-term performance and minimize environmental impact. Advances in preservative treatments, environmental management and sustainable forestry practices make treated wood an ecologically sound building material. Wood preservation also helps conserve forest resources for future generations by greatly reducing the amount of wood needed to replace untreated wood structures prematurely damaged by decay or termites.

Standards Revised – The 2016 Book of Standards published by the American Wood Protection Association (AWPA) includes revisions to treated wood standards: Ground Contact-treated wood is now required when installed less than 6″ off the ground; when it is wetted on a frequent and recurring basis; for joists and beams that are difficult to maintain, repair or replace and are critical to the performance and safety of the structure; when used in tropical climates.

Review this helpful illustration showing the proper application of pressure-treated Southern Pine materials for a variety of projects around the home.

For complete information about types of preservatives, the latest industry standards, product identification and specification guidelines, refer to SFPA’s booklet, Pressure-Treated Southern Pine (download in Publications).

For additional information on the proper handling and storage of pressure-treated Southern Pine materials, click here.