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Pressure treated plywood has long been a staple in the construction industry due to its enhanced durability and resistance to various environmental factors. However, like any material, it comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of treated plywood and introduce a superior treated product that offers the best of both worlds by retaining the benefits of treated plywood while addressing its common issues.
Advantages of Pressure Treated Plywood
- Durability and Longevity Treated plywood is designed to last longer than untreated plywood, offering enhanced resistance to decay and rot. This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor projects and structures exposed to the elements.
- Pest Resistance The treatment process for plywood includes chemicals that repel insects and pests, reducing the risk of infestations that can compromise the integrity of the wood.
- Cost-Effective Treated plywood is generally more affordable than many alternative building materials. Its cost-effectiveness makes it a popular choice for a variety of construction projects, from residential decks to commercial structures.
Disadvantages of Pressure Treated KDAT (Kiln-Dried After Treatment) Plywood
- Delamination Issues One of the significant drawbacks of some traditionally treated plywood products is the potential for delamination. During the treatment process and over time, layers of the wood can separate, leading to a loss of structural integrity and reduced lifespan.
- Swelling Problems Some pressure treated plywood is susceptible to swelling during the treatment process and when exposed to moisture. This can cause warping, delamination, and other structural issues, particularly in environments with high humidity or frequent rainfall.
- Kiln Drying Requirements Achieving the desired moisture content in post-pressure treated plywood often requires kiln drying. This process adds to the overall processing time and cost, making the wood less convenient and more expensive to work with as well as potentially alters the chemical makeup qualities.
- Stick Marks Some treatment processes can sometimes leave unsightly stick marks on the wood’s surface. These marks detract from the wood’s aesthetic appeal, especially in visible applications.
ForestGuard Panels – The Best of Both Worlds
- Maintains Durability and Longevity ForestGuard Panels are treated with a proprietary chemical. Developed to outperform other treated panel products, ForestGuard retains the durability, longevity, and stability barn and shed builders have come to expect and require. When installed properly, ForestGuard panels carry a 25-Year Warranty.
- Enhanced Pest and Rot Resistance Just like traditional treated wood, ForestGuard Panels are treated to repel pests and ward off rot and decay, offering superior protection against infestations and an increased lifespan.
- No Delamination ForestGuard Panels undergo a unique treatment process that evades delamination during the treatment process, maintaining structural integrity over time.
- No Swelling The ForestGuard treatment process is designed to resist swelling, ensuring better stability and reducing the risk of warping and other moisture-related issues. allowing the use of tongue and groove construction as the panels resist swelling allowing for perfect seams.
- No Kiln Time Needed ForestGuard Panels do not require kiln drying, saving time and resources during the production process. This ensures that the chemical makeup stays true and there is no loss of protection in the panels.
- No Stick Marks The treatment process for ForestGuard Panels is designed to prevent stick marks, resulting in a smooth, attractive finish suitable for various applications.
- Quality Control Every panel is handled and inspected to ensure proper treatment retention.
Conclusion
While treated plywood offers several benefits, it also comes with its own set of challenges. ForestGuard Panels provide the best of both worlds by retaining the advantages of treated wood while addressing its common disadvantages. With no delamination, no swelling, no kiln time needed, no stick marks, and enhanced pest resistance, ForestGuard Panels are an excellent choice for your next barn or shed building project. Consider incorporating ForestGuard Panels to ensure durability, stability, and long-lasting performance.