Everything You Need to Know About ProWood: Safety, Chemicals, and Proper Fasteners for Your Deck and Fence

ProWood is a popular brand of pressure-treated wood known for its durability, moisture resistance, and suitability for outdoor applications like decks and fences. But many homeowners have questions about its safety, what chemicals are used in its treatment, and which fasteners work best with it. Here’s a comprehensive guide from Ogden Deck Depot to help you understand what makes ProWood ideal for outdoor use and how to maximize its longevity.

1. What Chemicals Are Used to Treat ProWood?P roWood lumber undergoes a specialized treatment process to make it resistant to decay, insects, and moisture. The chemicals used in ProWood’s treatment process are environmentally preferred and optimized for safety and effectiveness.

• Micronized Copper Azole (MCA): ProWood is treated primarily with Micronized Copper Azole, a modern wood preservative that’s widely recognized as safe for residential and commercial projects. MCA treatment involves microscopic particles of copper combined with azole, a compound that provides additional protection against mold, rot, and insects.
• How MCA Works: The copper element helps protect the wood from fungal decay and insect infestations, while the azole provides added resistance against other decay agents. MCA treatment is low in toxicity compared to older treatments and meets stringent environmental safety standards.

This treatment method allows ProWood to be durable and moisture-resistant while maintaining a more natural appearance. Plus, because MCA-treated wood doesn’t have the greenish tint often associated with pressure-treated lumber, it has a more attractive, natural look that can be stained or painted to match your project’s aesthetic.
2. Is ProWood Safe for Outdoor Use, Particularly for Decks and Fences? Yes, ProWood is safe and highly suitable for outdoor applications such as decks, fences, and other exterior structures. MCA-treated wood is approved for residential, commercial, and even some marine applications, meeting standards for durability and safety.

• Moisture Resistance: ProWood’s treatment process makes it resistant to moisture, preventing the wood from swelling, warping, or rotting due to exposure to rain and humidity. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor projects that need to withstand varying weather conditions.
• Environmental and Health Safety: MCA-treated ProWood is certified as safe for residential use, including applications where people may come into direct contact with the wood, such as decks, patios, and playsets. The treatment chemicals are fixed within the wood fibers, so they don’t easily leach out, minimizing any environmental or health concerns.
• Suitable for Ground Contact: Certain types of ProWood, like ProWood Platinum, are treated for ground-contact applications, making them even more resilient to decay and perfect for posts and supports that are in direct contact with soil.

3. What Type of Fasteners Should Be Used with ProWood Lumber? Due to its treatment, ProWood lumber requires specific types of fasteners to prevent corrosion. The chemicals used to preserve pressure-treated wood can be corrosive to standard metal fasteners, so choosing the right materials is crucial for the longevity and stability of your project.

• Hot-Dipped Galvanized Fasteners: For most ProWood installations, hot-dipped galvanized nails, screws, and other fasteners are recommended. Hot-dipping provides a thicker coating of zinc, which helps prevent corrosion caused by the wood treatment chemicals. Be sure to use fasteners that meet ASTM A153 standards for durability.
• Stainless Steel Fasteners: For even greater resistance, especially in high-moisture or coastal areas, stainless steel fasteners are the best choice. They offer superior corrosion resistance and can handle prolonged exposure to both the elements and the chemicals in treated wood without rusting.
• Avoid Uncoated or Electro-Galvanized Fasteners: Electro-galvanized fasteners and uncoated metals can corrode quickly when used with treated wood, potentially compromising the structural integrity of your deck or fence over time.

Why ProWood is an Excellent Choice for Your Outdoor Projects
​ProWood offers a unique combination of safety, durability, and versatility, making it one of the top choices for outdoor applications. Its MCA treatment provides long-lasting protection against decay and insects without compromising safety. When paired with the right fasteners, ProWood lumber creates a deck or fence that will last for years, even in challenging weather conditions.
At Ogden Deck Depot, we proudly supply ProWood and are here to guide you in selecting the right materials and fasteners for your specific project. We’re committed to helping you create outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and built to last.

Ready to Start Your ProWood Project? Contact Ogden Deck Depot Today!

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