Why does pressure treated wood crack. As the water evaporates from the wood in the sun, the surface wood shrinks cracking around the un-shrunk core wood or fasteners. This is a close-up shot of the top of a 2-by-10-inch treated wood deck joist. Once it has done so, clamp the board into position and allow to dry. In this guide, find out what’s causing your cracked deck, and learn what to do about it. Pressure treated wood is lumber that has been infused with chemical preservatives. Think of how a steel wedge is used to split a piece of firewood. Feb 23, 2024 · Unlock its Enduring Secrets. Your deck structure isn’t consistently Nov 11, 2023 · Tape the edges of the crack with painter’s tape to protect the outer wood from excessive caulk. Softwoods like pine and cedar are the most commonly used deck-building materials in the United States. But — it doesn’t make wood water resistant. Best Wood Putty for Decks – Minwax 13617000. Once the treatment is complete, the wood moves to a drip pad for curing. Apr 4, 2018 · #2, I've never seen a perfectly straight pressure treated anything, so the box will need to be made bigger to account for that. Some paint-on products are also available. This is best done during warm, low humidity weather. This movement causes tension forces that start to tear the lumber apart. Photo: viga log ends after attaching them to the structural viga ends via epoxied double-ended screw connectors. Feb 18, 2014 · The caulk was still perfect in the few areas I had caulked along the siding. Cedar is likely to crack at the ends, so it’s a good idea to pre-drill holes to prevent the screws from forcing the fibers apart. Mar 21, 2024 · Clean the wood: Use a nylon-bristle brush and an oxygenated cleaner or deck brightener to remove dirt, mold, and mildew from the surface of the pressure-treated wood. Putting them in is easy, just jack the deck, cut the post and slip in the standoff. Once the cracks are filled in completely, use the putty knife to smooth out the surface of the deck post. The injection of these preservatives protects the wood from rot, moisture damage, and insect infestations. 93 posts · Joined 2008. Start by preparing the surface of the wood using a hairdryer or a fine-grit sandpaper, then apply the glue. Cut from the Side with Pressure Treatment. The hole should be slightly smaller than the saw blade. While it may warp over time, proper sealing and maintenance can prevent this from happening. The simplest way to do this is to coat any exposed wood grain with a waterproofing sealant. This process leads to splits and cracks, known as “checks. While they do alter the appearance of the timber, checks also add unique character without affecting the wood’s structural integrity. #1 · Jan 29, 2010. For deeper penetration, consider using a dripless glue dispenser, which can force the glue deeper into the split. The fungi that cause this are very small organisms that move into the wood and feed on it over time. Did your pressure-treated wood have some cracks after drying? No problem, it is a natural process. The cracking, called “checking,” is generally not a structural problem, but it creates a rough, splintery, and unattractive surface. Surfaces of oil-based treated wood may not be paintable and odors may be stronger. Feb 9, 2024 · Debunking Myths. Let your framing and decking dry out first. 1). Apr 1, 2016 · Separation of the wood fibers results in checking and splitting. 5. This will help you determine which type of material and technique will work best for your Oct 3, 2023 · If you are constructing a deck or changing the flooring the biggest challenge is to tackle shrinkage as all pressure-treated wood shrinks with time. This would mean that a 50’ wall project would cost you $1,750 – $3,000. The wood swells creating stress within the wood's cellular structure. Pressure-treated wood is suitable for projects where wood encounters moisture above or below ground, such as decking or fence posts. Clamp the wood together to hold them in place while the glue dries. Aug 8, 2017 · You betcha. Also, confirm what the posts are made of. EDT. 1. Following the recommended application method, a second coat can be applied after 45 minutes, while the surface is still slightly damp. Not only does the grain and pith affect twisting and splitting, but the grade and type of lumber plays a part as well. Before you stain, ensure the wood is dry. When the water evaporates, the wood shrinks. Only a few wood preservatives are discussed in this Mar 22, 2022 · This will help contain the glue and ensure it fills the crack completely. Research on Wood Beam / Post / Log / Viga Cracking & Failures. It can also give insects an easy way to access the non-treated areas of the wood. So if you want to keep your pressure-treated wood from warping, remember to use protection, store properly, maintain regularly, and seal or stain right away. Feb 18, 2020 · The process creates a vacuum, eliminating air from the cylinder and the wood’s cell structure. This causes even greater expansion pressure between the wood fibers and soon the lignin in the wood fails. You can do this easily using a post hole digger. Though there are obvious advantages in using pressure-treated wood for your basement, it has also some drawbacks, too. The wet treated wood sold in big box stores is crap. Use the paint roller to prime for large and flat sections of pressure-treated wood. Aug 24, 2022 · Wood filler is an easy way to repair damage to your pressure treated wood. There are two basic types of pressure-treated wood. Sep 22, 2020 · Your deck pops in cold weather due to the stress being released. Regularly Check for Moisture. All wood expands and contracts over time. The end grain is what you look at when you cut down a tree Oct 11, 2023 · Best Overall Exterior Wood Filler – RTG Wood Repair Epoxy Putty. Kiln dried wood has been seasoned using a heat-treatment involving a kiln-oven. However, if you layer this finish onto exposed wood grain, it can prevent wood from drying out too quickly. Here in Oregon that means buy the wood and store it in a DRY place. Treatment helps wood avoid water damage, mold, and insects. This causes the pressure treated wood to decay and soften which then turns into rot. Use 100-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the lower edges of the scrap piece of wood and attach it to the top of the split. But even pressure treated wood will rot away sooner rather than later, if it has prolonged direct contact with concrete. Pressure treated wood can still rot; its treatment only slows down the degradation process. One of the key parts of maintaining pressure-treated wood is sealing it. Backed by a Lifetime Limited Residential Warranty against rot, decay and termites. It has drawn a lot of discussion and debate among wood experts on the safety and hazards of using treated wood indoors. A leading, pro-preferred, above-ground treated wood preservative, Ecolife treated lumber is pressure-treated with a stabilizer to repel water, minimize cracking and keep boards straighter. Jan 5, 2023 · The average cost of a pressure-treated wood retaining wall is between $35 and $60 per linear foot for a professionally installed, high quality wall. When choosing the grade and type, look for Pressure Treated lumber Grade 1 or higher, and also look for the Kiln Dried After Treatment (KDAT) marking. There are many reasons why it can happen. Next, flood the retort with treatment chemicals under pressure. All kinds of fungal issues basically create the same problem: rot. The most important thing to understand about this pressure treatment is that the process 1). Well, these are all true. Moved to WOOD BEAM LOG VIGA CRACK REPAIR METHODS. Over the years, the openings will likely increase in size as the wood slowly cures. Jun 13, 2023 · The simple answer is that you can burn pressure-treated wood. So, take the sandpaper or grit paper and stroke through the surface. This is best explained in the image below. 3. It's structurally insignificant, utterly normal and expected, and you don't need to do anything about it. A check refers to a surface crack within the board, usually running lengthwise. Pressure-treated lumber is generally safe for its intended outdoor applications, such as decks, fences and other structures exposed to the elements. But when you get into thicker pieces like 12/4 and up into 6×6 and 12×12 timbers, you are looking at a sizable cross section of the original log. Place a couple of drops of water on the wood, if the wood absorbs the water, it’s ready to be stained. Above-ground pressure-treated wood: Can be used in applications that are easily maintained or replaced. Pressure treated wood will almost always do this as they warp and dry. Water readily enters the end grain of posts, joists, and decking. Prior to 2004, the main chemical used in treatment was arsenic. To remove moisture, you can use kiln or air drying methods. The main idea is to add moisture back to the wood and then clamp it into shape. Kiln-drying is more expensive but faster and more effective than air-drying. It’s easy to see why – they’re affordable, beautiful, and easy to work with. Oct 28, 2015 · Nothing, except for real wood, looks like real natural authentic wood. Using a knife or straight edge, flatten out the caulk. Pressure-treated wood is safe for its intended outdoor applications when used correctly and with proper precautions. Wood checking and splitting, a natural phenomenon in timber, occurs as the wood dries and loses moisture. By drying the wood salt paste prevent the wood from splitting and cracking. Small cracks get bigger and eventually a piece of wood will split in two. Pressure treated wood stands as a durable and cost-effective choice for outdoor projects like decking, fences, and landscaping. m. Allow the area to dry for at least 24 hours then sand the paste to get a level surface. Ripping a 1"x8" would do the job. Roll in small sections of about 4 feet by 4 feet. This means it will behave more like a log in the yard than a board. These Viga repairs are described in the US NPS article cited just below. Then, apply some wood filler slightly darker than the lumber and feather out the edges. Staining pressure treated wood is suitable for a new deck. Home Hacks & Answers. Pressure treating does make wood rot resistant. Also, wood damaged by UV will increase the likelihood of rot. Similarly, if it gets rained on and allowed to dry over and over without protection that can lead to it drying out and cracking. May 24, 2021 · Step two: Insert the wood pieces. 2. Treated lumber cracking happens because water soaks into the wood. Usually this doesn’t mean any damage has occurred. Take your time and work slowly. Mar 20, 2023 · So, let’s talk about the second-best method to keep your wood from splitting. Feb 4, 2020 · Any pressure treated wood rot is usually due to a fungal issue. The problem most run into is the warping and splitting before installation because they let the wood sit around for 3 weeks. Fill the sprayer with deck sealer and apply a coat of sealer to the entire deck. Decking splits as it dries. Lay a bead of textured wood caulk along the length of the wood check. Pressure treatment with waterborne preservatives does leave some moisture in the wood that may affect the penetration and drying of stains and paints. Allow the caulk to air dry. Nov 26, 2022 · Your pressure-treated wood feels wet due to waterborne chemicals in the wood pores. However, the sound is usually harmless unless the problem is from frost heaves. Paint the split thoroughly with the brush; saturate the splits until the glue runs out of the split liberally, The Wood Web recommends. As with everything, there are also some drawbacks to using pressure-treated wood that are good to consider. Working with wet treated wood is a very bad idea unless you like shrinkage, cracks, gaps, squeaks, etc. The treatment process involves placing wood Nov 20, 2021 · Pressure-treated wood is designed to be used outdoors, but for it to maintain its strength and beauty will need to be maintained. Wood that has been pressure treated is commonly used for outdoor projects Nov 30, 2016 · Updated November 30, 2016. 7. Can only be used in applications more than 6 inches from the ground. If you are looking for a product that will fill cracks and gaps, seal holes and dents, or even fill in knots and splits, then this is the product for you. When new pressure treated wood is used for projects, it is fine when it's fresh. Manufacturing methods for treating wood include pressure treatment, dipping, or soaking. Here are some great reasons why using wood filler on your pressure treated deck may be a good idea: Pressure treated wood does not rot. 2 Each type of wood preservative has a different mixture of ingredients. The cost will vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. All wood starts out “green” and needs to dry when it is freshly chopped, and the uneven drying process is natural and unavoidable in most cases, often resulting in checks. The wood is placed in a depressurized holding tank that removes the air and replaces it with a preservative. Ecolife is one of the most popular pressure-treated wood products used in backyard projects across America. Before attempting to fill the cracks in your pressure-treated wood, take a close look at the damage and assess the type of crack it is. Pressure-treated wood is made for use outside, where exposure to the elements can quickly rot untreated wood and where damage from insects (like termites) is common. The preservatives used to pressure-treat wood give it resistance to these things to make it last much longer outdoors. Annually, apply a clear stain to increase the longevity of the preservative coating on the wood’s surface if not using a paint product. This will remove the excess filler and sand from the surface. The release of this stress results in a loud popping or cracking sound. It appears as though they are are sinking, but actually the wood raises sinse it's not as snug any longer. That way as the lumber dries it is forced to a specific shape. Second, the pressure is reintroduced to the closed chamber, forcing the preservative into the lumber. What are the drawbacks of building with PTP? The main problem is that it’s very reactive to the sun. Shellac isn’t waterproof, but it is fairly water resistant. e. Fill in the Cracked Deck Post With Glue. This lumber continues to ‘bake’ even after being installed. Paint or stain the caulk to match your timber. Sep 22, 2020 · To keep pressure-treated wood from warping you will need to apply a stain. Jul 18, 2023 · Disadvantages of Pressure Treated Wood. It should be avoided indoors, in food-safe and aquatic sites, as chemicals can leach into its surroundings. A defective pressure gauge at a treatment plant might be the culprit. Best Wood Filler for Outdoor Use – Bondo All-Purpose Putty. The sun causes the wood to shrink as the moisture dries. The most common cause is the lumber drying too quickly. When impregnating wood, the wood is treated with a combination of chemicals, with copper as the main component. The precise reason why your deck does this while your neighbor’s Feb 6, 2022 · Scrape out the remaining rough edges of the splinter using a chisel and sand the surface lightly with coarse-grit sandpaper. 6. Aug 6, 2021 · Step 2: Apply Sand & Secure the Surface. August 8, 2017 at 7:30 a. The metal copper protects the wood excellently against wood rot and insects. Jun 1, 2021 · 1. May 24, 2023 · Step 1: Inspect the Damage. This helps wood to stave off mold bacteria and decay. The manufacturer of the chemical brew May 16, 2023 · 4. Yallawood has micronized copper preservatives and organic compounds, while pressure treated wood utilizes copper-based ones. Wood checks always begin at the surface, usually stop at the timber’s core, and are not a structural or warranty concern. These cracks are also called checks and will show up after a year if you have the wood placed outside. Pressure treated wood has been saturated with rot-resistant chemical wood preservatives. Another way is to check for a greenish hue or slight dampness on the surface of the wood, which are both indications of pressure treatment. Basic – Spray down the lumber and let the wood absorb the water. This builds up stress that suddenly relieves itself and produces the loud cracking or popping sounds. The solution to prevent decking from Pressure-treated wood does not need protection against rot, but staining can help reduce surface cracking. Jul 12, 2013 · Use the end of the brush to force glue inside the spits from the top down. When the post dries and shrinks in winter, water will enter the hole, and it won't drain out through the bottom. Feb 9, 2022 · The main difference between Yellawood and pressure treated lumber is the chemical composition used during treatment. Thanks in advance for any help. Nothing to be concerned about. You can enjoy pressure treated decks for a very long time. This type of treatment is commonly used for outdoor projects such as decks, fences, and outdoor furniture. First start with the vertical hole then start to fan at an angle to get to the cone shape. If you are using a circular saw, make a pilot hole in the wood before starting to cut. For obvious reasons the EPA banned its use and, since that date, new construction has been considerably safer. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Generally speakingnits good to consume wood shortly after purchase. My deck is supported with 6x6 pressure treated posts which are about 4-5 feet tall. UV rays from the sun can cause the wood’s loss of color if it is exposed for too long. Maintaining the durability and longevity of outdoor wooden structures calls for materials that can withstand the elements. Oct 24, 2017 · As you select the Pressure Treated wood for your project, plan ahead. Then the chamber is closed and filled with the preservative component. A 2x6 will shrink as much as 1/2 inch in width after it dries. jweiner Discussion starter. Wood Drying. Building with wet wood only causes issue later. Pressure treated wood is a type of wood that has been infused with chemicals to make it resistant to rotting. There’s too many safety hazards and negative environmental effects to deal with. And as a result, the wood moves, cracks, twists, bends, cups and virtually tears itself apart. Sealed wood will crack and warp less with less expansion Pressure-treated wood is suitable for projects where wood encounters moisture above or below ground, such as decking or fence posts. PT lumber, like regular construction lumber, is sold "green", i. These chemicals protect it from rot, decay, and insect damage. Use a Salt Paste. Pressure treated wood still soaks and looses moisture. Safety goggles and dust masks are recommended when sanding, drilling or cutting into wood that has been treated. [/QUOTE] Yeah, my bad for tossing off a quick reply. Sealing the wood helps to maintain a low water content preventing rotting of the wood. Nov 19, 2020 · When wood is pressure treated, two things happen: First, the lumber is placed in a depressurized chamber. Pressure-treating is when a product like ‘Tanalith E’ is used. Checking allows water to enter the board beyond the pressure-treated surface and can accelerate the decay of the board. Best Exterior Epoxy Wood Filler – Abatron Wood Epoxy 2 kit. Nov 23, 2021 · Pressure-treated wood has preservatives injected into it to ward off moisture, pests, and termites. Patch the wood: Patch large cracks in pressure-treated wood with epoxy resin. I am wondering what would be the best way to reinforce these posts. Step three: sand the top piece of wood. Jun 30, 2022 · To glue pressure treated wood, you will need to use either waterproof glue or a certified construction glue. I like to use vinyl post wraps so there's no more painting and no chance the bottom will rot out. Ecolife treated wood can be stained or painted. February 9, 2024 - By Jose Henry. Allow the sealer to dry completely before replacing the patio furniture and using it. Ecolife also contains a water repellent so you don’t have to apply a sealant for up to three years after installation. This allows kiln-dried wood to season in a fraction of the time of traditionally air-dried timber. While at first the cracks are Jan 29, 2010 · J. The cold causes contractions which cause stress to build up in the wood. Pressure treated wood contains wood preservatives that help wood to stave off decay. Ecolife treated wood provides a built-in water repellent that lasts for up to three years and reduces surface cracking and checking by up to 50% compared to ordinary treated wood. Apr 1, 2020 · 2. But when new decking dries rapidly in direct sun, it can cause the wood to crack because the moisture evaporates so quickly. Aug 1, 2017 · Suffice it to say, treated wood does rot. There is hope. As a result, Yallawood products are more eco-friendly than pressure treated. Pressure-treated wood can turn gray after long exposure to the elements. There are three main types of pressure-treated lumber: lumber for ground use A: Pressure-treated wood decking will not rot, but it certainly will weather and crack if not finished properly. It’s just another type of wood, so it’ll burn like all wood does. Nov 19, 2015 · Checks form because the inside of wood dries more slowly than the outer surface. Jul 14, 2020 · Learn about the advantages for outdoor projects. Apply the Glue: Use a brush to apply the glue to the crack, pushing it in with some force. still with a significant moisture content. While pressure treatment protects against insects and rot, sealing is necessary to protect the wood from moisture and mildew. Make a Pilot Hole. Dec 16, 2014 · Gloves should be worn at all times when handling pressure treated wood. Nov 20, 2021 · Pressure-treated wood rots because of excess moisture, unprotected wood surfaces or insufficient levels of treatment when in contact with high levels of fungi. Jun 5, 2023 · The sealer applies smoothly and evenly with a brush, leaving behind a clear finish. Kiln dried after treatment (KDAT) is harder to find and more expensive but will be much less prone to warping and twisting. Trying to close it up will fail - it's a result of differential shrinkage (and is why wood you don't want to see such Prevention. Oct 23, 2022 · Re-seal or re-stain every 1-2 years as necessary to continue protecting against moisture damage. 3). Lay Out The Wood Flat: Stack the pressure-treated wood in a criss-cross pattern to allow it to air-dry. A wood moisture meter will reveal the level of moisture in the wood. Pressure treated wood is specifically treated to resist rotting. Aug 14, 2020 · pine doesn't stain well and neither does PT, it generally looks splotchy and amateurish even under the best conditions. May 25, 2021 · The ends of any treated lumber are the most susceptible to wood rot. Pressure-treated wood is wood that has been infused with chemical preservatives to protect the wood from rot and insects. But, if you use shellac to fill in a crack, it won’t be able to stabilize a This brand has been known since the 1940s. Still, it’s not something you should worry yourself about too much. Pressure treated lumber is more prone to cracking than cedar. Moisture causes wood to swell, and as it dries, it shrinks, putting stress on the wood. Jun 2, 2013 · They should have been installed with aluminum standoffs that keep the post at least 3/4" obove the concrete. After you apply the timber filler, make sure you give it time to cure. 6x6 Pressure Treated Wood is commonly used for deck, fence or dock posts, and landscaping projects. Use a two-part epoxy wood consolidant before applying the epoxy resin. Nov 20, 2021 · Checking can be controlled in “regular” sized 4/4 through 8/4 or even 10/4 lumber, because this thinner stuff is easier to dry. However, you’ll need to remove the excess timber or sand from the area. Best Stainable Wood Filler – Elmer’s E892. You can clearly see the rot happening around the corroding Step 6. Make the adhesive flush with the outermost part of the deck post. Apr 22, 2024 · Do not be alarmed if you have large or small cracks in the lumber, especially in large timber and treated lumber. Sep 14, 2022 · Wood tends to expand and contract with the seasons, and cedar is no exception. Step four: apply glue. This second step is where the incisions come into play. The next time it rains, these cracks allow the water to penetrate deeper and faster into the wood. However, over time the pressure treated wood shrinks around the fastners as it dries and cures. By Tim Carter. 2). Oct 21, 2020 · Checks: a “check” is usually a long crack that appears parallel to the grain as the sapwood shrinks around the heartwood (the center of the tree) during the drying process. Jun 13, 2022 · Pressure-treated lumber is the result of adding chemical preservatives to wood using a high-pressure treatment. Dec 13, 2016 · In addition to natural moisture, pressure treated lumber receives a treatment of chemicals mixed with water. Feb 19, 2020 · Yes, staining pressure treated wood is a great method of protection. If your deck is built with pressure treated wood impregnated with a high-quality water-resistant stabilizer, that will help protect it from the harsh winter weather. The stain will protect against water so the wood will not expand. Place the wood pieces into the splits one after the other till it slightly fills up the split spaces. If you're filling cracks in pressure-treated posts and a split is flexible, pry it open with a screwdriver or pry bar. Below we listed a few different forms. Let’s find out more! Before staining a pressure-treated wood, cleaning it using a pressure washer to knock loose dirt or residue is important. This will help guide the saw blade and prevent it from wandering off course during the cut. You don't want to seal the fence either, that's more to resist standing water like on a deck, but used vertical, it can slow the natural wetting and drying out of the wood, causing splitting, rotting, and un-even gaps. The salt paste can dry the wood by absorbing the moisture content inside the wood which causes wood splitting. Splits, unlike checks, run all the way through the board and a severe split can make it Mar 21, 2024 · Roll Primer on Large Areas. Checking is part of the weathering process and is caused by wetting and drying cycles. Treated wood does not necessarily need protection against rot, however, staining it will help reduce surface cracking, warping, and splintering due to impacts of moisture and prolonged exposure to UV light. Why is it almost always a bad idea Aug 1, 2023 · The short answer is yes. Leave it for a while to dry completely then release the clamps. Avoid rot with a few draining tricks: Make the diameter of the hole bigger on the bottom. Yes, let it dry. ”. As the chemicals in the wood dry, it can cause the wood to warp, twist . As a general rule of thumb wood shrinks (swells) approximately twice as much in the tangential direction of the annual rings as compared to the radial direction. But, if we want to complicate the answer a bit, you typically shouldn’t burn treated lumber. It’s less susceptible to decay than untreated wood but not immune. Identify whether it’s narrow, wide, or deep and if there are any other signs of wear. Paint by first dipping the roller cover in the primer, then rolling it out on the screen. Water, Fungi and UV will damage your exterior wood projects, but my guess is you are not really Feb 7, 2024 · A cracked deck can cause splinters, tripping, and plain old unsightliness. That left my gaps bigger and the need for a larger more caulk. I noticed some vertical splitting of the posts which makes me a little nervous. The thing is, over time the chemical treatment in the pressure treated wood dries out and the wood contracts and literally gets a tiny bit smaller since it’s not now swollen with moisture. Use a putty knife to spread the adhesive into the damaged and cracked deck post. Another option is to allow the wet stuff to dry out stacked with 1x2 strips separating the boards to Repair Cracks or Splits in Wood Beams, Logs, Vigas. Unless they are treated lumber or an exotic like ironwood (ipe), replace them. Oct 21, 2021 · Checks and splits in lumber and timbers, especially pressure-treated lumber, are often misunderstood when assessing the condition of a structure. While initially appearing slightly milky, it quickly dries to a transparent state. Checking does not affect the structural properties of a piece of wood, it adds character and rustic appeal to your project! Shake: shake is the separation of the growth Apr 18, 2024 · Additionally, pressure treated wood can maintain its appearance over time with proper maintenance. That's a "check" from the green wood drying out, and the very likely fact that the center of the tree is in your post. It also adds decades to the wood’s lifespan. Best Bang for the Buck – J-B Weld 8258 KwikWood. Use A Wood Kiln: Dry out the wood using a dehumidifying kiln, but be careful not to dry out the wood to the point of cracking. 1"x6" is too small. Nov 8, 2023 · Yes, pressure-treated wood is safe. Individual pieces of pressure-treated lumber will have a tag on one end of the board to indicate its permitted use. The cracks you see are the visible signs of this tearing apart of the wood fibers. This will reduce the rate that the wood absorbs water, which causes the expansion and contraction that causes cracks. To determine if wood is pressure treated, look for visible signs such as stamps or tags on the wood indicating it has been treated. To summarize, pressure treated wood is a durable and long-lasting option for outdoor projects. So, you should place an elastomeric adhesive coating between concrete and fence posts. While cracks in deck posts and beams are generally only a cosmetic concern, they can allow water to seep into the lumber and cause rot. Due to the innate characteristics of wood, it shrinks and swells differently. Below, we are going to delve into some details behind It is that cold temperatures cause materials to shrink, and some components of your deck are shrinking more than others. Usually, use 160 pounds of pressure to drive the compounds into the wood’s structure. The tension of drying is responsible for the shrinking that leads to checking cracks. If you are not diligent about the care and maintenance of pressure-treated pine, it will change color, crack, warp, and cup. Okay, thanks. tb ll uj xi gq hy fm iq ax cf