how soon after installing pressure treated wood can it be painted?

Answer 1

Oh God I shriek at these answers. I'm a painter. It's a catch 22 when it comes to this stuff. First. It should be cured outside foe a month. Then coat all 4 sides with a solid oil decking stain. You will want to thin the first coat 50/50 with thinner. That's right. It will penetrate the wood better. Then on your second coat you should thin about 20%. Paint and primer is toooo soft and brittle to walk on! AVOID these so called new latex products. After all this your deck will still be lucky if it holds up great. I suggest a semi-transparent oil "decking" stain. you will need to do every other year or so but no matter what you do with solid paints will be disastrous down the road and will peel. I wouldn't write something this long if I didn't care or know. We own paint stores and am 4th generation painter. good luck. PS. avoid the depot

Answer 2

That might largely depend on where it's been stored? Outside obviously; the environment plays a role. In a Big Box home store; you might ask when it was brought in; how long it's been in stock; etc.

The treatment process isn't at all designed to remain "WET"; it's the factors after the Mill/treatment; that dictate the moisture content. Certainly treated lumber is often intended for use where it will be subject to the exterior environment. Without knowing at all its purpose for YOU; I ask why paint?

In any case if you install outdoors; and it is/was dry; then I suggest finishing it asap to avoid more weather issues. There are no laws or standards by the way; regarding the WHEN.

Steven Wolf

Answer 3

Box stores say nothing should be done for a year. I asked about Behr paint and same answer wait a year

Answer 4

When it is no longer moist to the touch. Use a primer before painting though.