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Treating timbers for outdoor project?

  • 28-03-2025 03:27PM
    #1
    monkeyactive
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 296 ✭✭


    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?



Comments

  • #2
    Lumen
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 30,475 ✭✭✭✭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.



  • #3
    monseiur
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,627 ✭✭✭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.



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