Materials

Timber

Surfacing (planed or rough sawn) can alter the appearance of wood. Rough-sawn wood is more appropriate for primitive locations. All wood products, including glued-laminated (glulam) products, can be supplied as rough sawn. Rough sawn glulam is generally referred to as "recut" glulam. Solid sawn and “recut” glulam timbers are nearly indistinguishable. Preservative treatments can significantly change the appearance, smell, and suitability of wood.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) worked with pesticide manufacturers to voluntarily phase out chromated copper arsenate (CCA) use for wood products around the home and in children’s play areas. Effective December 31, 2003, no wood treater or manufacturer may treat wood with CCA for residential uses (with exceptions). Please refer to the report Preservative-Treated Wood and Alternative Products in the Forest Service (Username: t-d, Password: t-d).

Creosote

Creosote-treated wood should not be used in applications where it will contact user's skin.

Pentachlorophenol Treated in a Type C Solvent (Light Hydrocarbon Solvent)Pentachlorophenol, with Type C solvent, can be painted or stained with oil-based products.

Pentachlorophenol Treated in a Type A Solvent (Heavy Oil Solvent) Pentachlorophenol, with Type A solvent, should not be used in applications where it will contact user's skin.

Copper Napthenate Treatment in a Type A Solvent (Heavy Oil)

CCA (Chromated Copper Arsenate—a Waterborne Treatment)All waterborne treatments can be painted or stained.

ACZA (Ammoniacal Copper-Zinc Arsenate—a Waterborne Treatment)

ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quat—a Waterborne Treatment)