What is Pressure Treated Wood?

When it comes to quality, low maintenance, and ensuring the longevity of your timber, the most important feature to look for is full and proper pressure treatment. We are the experts on pressure-treated timber and we pride ourselves in being able to offer pressure-treated Sheds, Climbing Frames, Gazebos and Garden Offices. You may be considering purchasing a product from another company which claims to be pre-treated. But be careful! This product might only be ‘dip-treated’.

We know our products are made to last, and this is why we can also offer a 10-year guarantee on all of our pressure-treated timbers and products.

What does ‘pressure-treated timber’ mean?

Pressure Treatment is the forcing of chemical preservatives into the wood. By doing this in a large kiln, we ensure that all surfaces of the timber parts are exposed to the pressure treatment, protecting the entirety of the timber and reducing the likelihood of rot or insect infestation as a result of moisture absorption.

Why is pressure treatment so important?

We believe in getting it right from the start. That’s why, within our pressure-treated range, all timber is cut to size before undergoing treatment in a specialised high-pressure tank. This ensures the preservative penetrates deep into the wood, delivering long-lasting protection against rot and infestation—supported by our 10-Year Guarantee!

Be careful with your purchase, as other companies may only dip-treat their wood, which only coats the surface. This can give the appearance of protection but does not provide the same durability or low-maintenance benefits as true pressure treatment. Dip-treated timber is far more susceptible to decay and requires frequent reapplication of preservatives.

Maximise Protection & Maintain the Guarantee

Pressure treatment protects against rot and infestation – but not water absorption. To enhance the durability of your garden structure we recommend the following:

• Apply a microporous water-repellent treatment as soon as possible after installation.
• If using multiple treatments (e.g. UV oil and water repellent), always check labels for compatibility and follow manufacturer guidelines regarding re-application.
• Avoid cutting pressure-treated timber, as this breaks the protective seal and voids the 10-Year Guarantee. If cuts are necessary, apply a suitable end-grain preservative, but note that the guarantee will no longer apply.

Explore our website to browse our extensive range of pressure-treated products. Our knowledgeable sales team is ready to assist you with any questions. Call us on 01234 819762 or fill out our contact form, and we’ll get in touch at a time that suits you.

Can you paint pressure-treated wood?

Pressure-treated timber, while protected against rot and insect infestation, is still susceptible to moisture absorption. To improve weather resistance, reduce warping, and extend the life of your product, we recommend the following:

1) Water-Repellent Treatment

• Apply a high-quality, microporous water repellent as soon as possible after installation, focusing especially on exposed end grain. This allows the timber to breathe while minimising moisture uptake.
• Please Note: Water-repellent treatment is not the same as pressure treatment. While pressure treatment guards against rot (covered by our 10-year guarantee), it does not prevent water absorption.
• Always follow the product manufacturer’s instructions and reapply as needed to maintain long-term effectiveness.

2) UV Protection Oil

• To protect against sun bleaching, apply a UV-resistant oil or sealant. This forms a barrier that helps prevent discolouration caused by sunlight.
• If you’re using multiple treatments, check product labels for compatibility. When in doubt, consult your treatment supplier for guidance.

3) End Grain Sealant

• If you cut pressure-treated timber, the protective layer is compromised, and the 10-year guarantee is voided.
• We strongly recommend applying an end-grain preservative to all cut surfaces to restore some level of protection. However, please note that even with re-treatment, the guarantee will remain void.

Ongoing Maintenance:

• Ensure your building has proper ventilation, especially if you’re covering the floor. Non-breathable materials can trap moisture and increase the risk of rot. Consult an expert if you’re unsure about suitable flooring options.
• Periodically check and tighten all bolts and fixings to maintain structural stability.
• Before winter, inspect and re-treat any exposed timber. Also check doors and windows operate smoothly and make any necessary adjustments.

Contact us for guidance at [email protected]—we’re happy to help!

What do we mean when we say ‘dip-treated’ timber?

You may be considering purchasing a product from another company which claims to be pre-treated. But be careful! This product might only be ‘dip-treated’, meaning the manufacturer might have tried to keep costs down by just ‘dipping’ the ends of the timber in treatment, and leaving it to dry. This may give the appearance of pressure treatment, but in reality, this product will not be fully protected and will certainly not last as long or require as little maintenance as a truly pressure-treated garden structure.

Is pressure-treated wood safe to use in your garden?

Key Points About Our Pressure Treatment:

• Non-toxic and arsenic-free – Safe for both people and pets
• Fully compliant with the EU Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR)
• Includes a brown dye to provide a natural-looking finish
  • (Please note: The brown dye may transfer onto light-coloured or porous surfaces if the timber is exposed to moisture. To prevent this, we recommend storing your timber structure in a dry, well-ventilated area, and placing a protective barrier (such as tarpaulin) between the timber and the ground prior to installation.