Treating timber for outdoor use?

monkeyactive

HI

Project is a catio (cat enclosure)

I have a lot of timber on hand but it's untreated.

Obviously Treated woukd be better here.

But is there anything I could apply to get even a few years out of these timbers outside? Thanks

Lumen

You can. I use ProTim 265 which might be unavailable now (or reformulated).

Thing is, in ground contact everything will rot, treated or not, and without ground contact even untreated wood will last years.

As an example, I have some 70x70 section untreated timber which has been outside in the rain for about three years, but it's been sitting on top of a wall so it's still absolutely fine. I'm on the east coast so stuff will dry out.

So your best bet is to design it in such a way that (a) there's no wood in contact with the ground, and (b) wherever possible you stop water pooling on horizontal surfaces, particularly on end grain.

monkeyactive

Thanks appreciate advice at very least il only let treated wood touch ground

Even in contact with the ground treated posts will last 20years or more.

Either build off treated posts or onto blocks.

Lumen

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122498251#Comment_122498251

Pressure treated will last OK but DIY-treated will not. Also, if you're going to put pressure treated wood in/on the ground don't cut have any cut ends in contact.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_76EFrsKa_U

flyer_query

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122498328#Comment_122498328

thats an interesting video, didnt expect those results.

monkeyactive

Can't seem to find that pro trim 264 , any other suggestions on a treatment chemical appreciated

RainInSummer

265.

Stigura

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122499545#Comment_122499545

I imagine someone will be right along, to say why this is 'wrong'. But, old engine oil.

Larrup it on. Give each coat as long as ye like, to soak in and dry. (Few days, under cover, or out in the light) Then, have at it again. And again! Three soaks in that stuff and it's black as pitch and ever more shall be.

I've used it for years. All over the place. Always keep some to hand. And, my mates eyes light up, when I ask for more! They're like; " How much??? ", in a voice filled with hope! 😂

Accidentally

Might not be very healthy for the cat

Stigura

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/122510379#Comment_122510379

My chickens are fine with it 😐️ They live inside a Box, made of wood soaked in it. Birds have dreadfully vulnerable airways, as the Miners knew.

@monkeyactive Ye cats'd be fine. And, top marks for caring enough to do right 👍️

magicbastarder

with cats, you'd run the possibility of them using the wood as a scratching post. so i'd be wary about any such treatments.