how do you kept pressure treated lumber from bending and twisting after it drys?

Question

2x4s and 2x6s lumber

Answer 1

You can't. I put up a fence using pressure treated lumber. I thought it would be great and not rot and last forever. Ya right, The boards are warping and I now have gaps between some of them. I secured the boards with six decking screws,,,,2 at the top, 2 in the middle and 2 at the bottom. The wood warps and pulls the screws out. Oh well, live and learn.

Answer 2

If you have a fair amount of wood that you want to use later you should band it together. Stack it in a neat pile and then put metal bands around it. These are used in most lumber yards and home centers. If you don't have access to bands use ratcheting tie down straps.

I prefer installing the lumber while it is still wet and straight. This way as it dries out it will keep its shape better. This isn't always perfect though, especially if the treated lumber is being used for decking. The elements can be pretty hard on decking if it isn't maintained.

Treated lumber only resists rot. It still needs maintenance or you will have major splits, shrinking, and splinters. For decks and fences I recommend using either Superdeck or Cabot products.

Answer 3

That's why I don't use the stuff, except for posts that must be underground. All I can suggest is get the stuff as dry as you can buy it, and use plenty of screws when you install it----like on a fence or deck. Install deck boards w/ the crown up, and anchor them often w/ deck screws. Hard to keep treated wood from twisting when left to itself!

Answer 4

treated lumber usually wont warp if its on 16" center framing with no cantalever.

Answer 5

you need to apply a weatherproofing clear coating to it on a porch etc.. if storing it just stack it straight and level out of the sun.

Answer 6

Ask it nicely not to bed or twist.