Questions and Answers for 4 in. x 4 in. x 12 ft. #2 Ground Contact Pressure-Treated Timber

A:  Jdmy, the timber provided is pressure treated to protect against fungal decay, rot, and termites. It is important to note that treated wood is usually delivered while still damp. As the wood dries, there may be slight changes in its width and length, and it may also split, cup, or warp. These changes are more likely to occur in lower-grade boards that already have knots and uneven grains. It's important to understand that each piece of lumber is unique and may have physical characteristics such as knots, warping, shrinkage, swelling, or splitting. If you plan to paint or stain the treated wood, it is crucial that the wood is dry enough to accept a coating. A simple way to determine if the wood is dry enough is to sprinkle droplets of water onto the surface. If the water is absorbed, the wood is ready for painting or staining. However, if the water droplets bead on the surface, the wood is still too wet. In this case, it is recommended to wait a few days before attempting to paint or stain the wood.

A:  NITOY, without an exact Model # of what you are comparing this product to, we are unable to provide the exact differences of this and the Pressure-Treated Ground Contact Southern Yellow Pine Timber. When searching the description of "Pressure-Treated Ground Contact Southern Yellow Pine Timber", it appears that the length is different, but the grade, treatment process and species are the same.

A:  Moltroub, Model # 288741 is our product, but Model # 4230254 is not our product, so therefore we cannot give you the exact differences. It appears Model # 4230254 is Cedar-Tone, and Model # 288741 is not.

A:  Yes they can

A:  Jody, To better answer your question, please contact our HD.com customer service department at 800-430-3376 call any day between 6 a.m. and 2 a.m. EST, or call your local store. They can either answer your question or transfer you to your local store to answer your specific question.

A:  Sctruxton, If your decorative decision is to stain this product you may do so. Use the water test to see if it’s time to seal/stain. Drizzle some water onto the wood. If the water beads, the wood is still sealed and protected. If the water is absorbed into the wood within a few seconds, it’s time to apply a sealer/stain.

A:  No is does not need further treatment 

A:  There is no product totally resistant to the elements, even the protection that protects. They only extend the life and/or appearance. Copied this line from website regarding this lumber - Features Lighter, more natural wood appearance for improved staining qualities

A:  Made of Southern Yellow Pine.

A:  Southern Pine

A:  Krissy, Actual product width is 3.5 in, actual product thickness is 3.5 in.

A:  Actually is 3-5/8 x 3-5/8

A:  No. Ground contact lumber is already treated for exactly that. The lag screws/bolts on the other hand, you will need hot dipped triple coated galvanized or stainless steel. Even hot dipped galvanize screws/bolts will rust eventually, so if you want to ensure that your hardware doesn’t rust, stainless steel will be your only option. One thing you can do to treat the lumber is fresh cut the ends of your 4x’s or decking, and seal them with sealant. Place gravel in the bottom of your post holes to drain ground water away from the ends of your 4x4 deck posts. (Tip: Dip the tips of your lag screws in dish soap in order to create a smoother installation process, and keep splintering to a minimum).

A:  You can coat,but I used galvanized coated bolts.