If you’re planning to build a deck, make sure you carefully consider the materials you’re using – especially when building the subframe. The material used for your decking subframe should provide a stable base that guarantees structural stability and long-term durability. There are a few materials you can choose from, all of which have specific pros and cons. You’ll need to understand them all so that you can make an informed decision on which is the best choice for your project.
Pine, or in this case treated pine, is one of the most popular and versatile timbers and is commonly used in household projects. While it is a natural product that is strong and reliable, the question remains – is all pine the same? Can you use any pine for your outside projects?
Let’s dig a bit deeper and find out which pine, or treated pine, is best for your deck.
What is H3 Treated Pine?
Pine is a softwood, which is why it needs to be treated with preservatives and kiln-dried for extra durability. Without treatment, the pine can rot and be subject to insect attack. Without kiln drying, it can split or crack when exposed to extreme weather. However, with the correct treatment and drying process, your pine frame will enjoy an extended life.
There are several different classes of preservatives used to treat pine, with H2, H3 and H4 being the most common options. The H stands for hazard, and it is used to denote the level of treatment required and what the timber can be used for. H is used to categorise the treatments applied on the timber to protect it from insects and decay among other things. Treated pine is classified according to durability, with H3 and H4 being the more durable classifications for external use. H3 is the best option for all your subframe work above-ground, while H4 can be used for posts and other things that are close to/touch the ground or need to be dug into the ground.
Why is H3 Treated Pine used for subframes?
It is vital to understand the difference in these grades of wood so that it is easier for you to use them as a part of your outdoor decking. H3 treated pine is protected against insect damage and gives your timber a long-term resistance to decay. H3 is the minimum required level of treatment used in protecting the timber from termites, decay, and fungi attacks. This preservative treatment guarantees protection for above-ground settings and places that are exposed to periodic wetting.
Regardless of the makeup of the chosen preservative, the treatment process is the same. The kiln dried timber is immersed in the treatment solution, and the treatment is then given some time to penetrate before it’s drained off. The timber is then dried again to keep it stable during construction.
Another reason why treated pine is such a popular choice is the cost. Compared to most other timbers, treated pine is a much more affordable option. After all the subframe is not going to be seen so it makes sense to choose a product that is affordable and long lasting. H3 treated pine offers both and will allow you to build an affordable outdoor deck.
How long will H3 treated pine last?
While the H3 treatment doesn’t completely eliminate any chance of decay (as it is a natural process for wood), it does slow the process right down. This helps protect the treated pine decking from average levels of decay and keeps your deck solid and maintenance free for many years to come.
If you’re looking for H3 treated pine in Perth for your decking project, reach out to us at Austim today. We’re Perth’s leading supplier of treated pine and other timber for structural, interior and exterior applications.
