Extending the life of your treated wood

• 1). Applying a sealant to the wood is the best choice no matter how the wood is used. Whether it is used for a deck, railing or other purpose, painting or staining the material will lengthen the life of the wood. To paint or stain the wood, make sure it is clean of all debris, and apply a thin layer of paint or stain to the wood and allow it to dry.
  
  
• 2). Filling all nail and screw holes is another way to extend the life of the wood. Anytime you drive nails or screws into the wood, it creates a tunnel for water to enter the wood and rot it from within. If you screw from the bottom of the lumber (where water doesn't fall on or rest) then it will decrease the amount of water that penetrates the surface of the wood. Also, you can use wood putty or caulk to fill any surface nail or screw holes.
  
  
• 3). Applying concentrated treatment chemical to any cut ends will increase the life of the wood. When you cut the lumber, it exposes the inner parts of the wood that are not as treated as the exterior is. If you apply some of the same treatment that is used on the lumber with a brush to any cut ends, it will help with the life of the wood.