Treating timbers for outdoor project?

monkeyactive

Hi

I have a lot of timbers spare and was going to use to build a catio onto side of house.

Its not treated timber so I was wondering if there is anything that I could apply to bit to give it some durability?

Or should I just give up on it and just get treated timbers for this project?

Lumen

Given the lower effectiveness of more environmentally friendly/less poisonous consumer wood treatments that are on the market now, I think I'd be inclined to paint it. It'll look nicer too.

Even untreated wood does actually last a reasonable amount of time outdoors as long as it's not in ground contact and doesn't have large horizontal surfaces to collect water. You could probably achieve a longer life by just painting/treating those surfaces.

monseiur

Treat it with something like Cuprinol Exterior Wood Preserver. Best to give it 2 coats allowing 2 days between coats After treating leave in an open shed for 3 to 4 days to dry. If timber is white deal it's pointless and a waste of time and money using it outdoors without treating - it'll start rotting from day one. Our climate is too wet and mild all year around which seriously shortens the lifespan of even well treated timber.