Pressure treated wood has many benefits that make it ideal for birdhouses. The treated wood is rot resistant, insect resistant, and durable. This makes it ideal for outdoor use and able to withstand the elements. The pressure treated wood is also less likely to warp or crack.
What is pressure treated wood?
Pressure treated wood is wood that has been through a process of doctrines treatment to make it more resistant to rot, insects, and other pests. The pressure treated wood process involves putting the wood into a chamber, where it is exposed to high pressure and temperature. This changes the structure of the wood and makes it more durable.
How do I clean and maintain pressure treated wood bird houses?
Assuming you would like a professional opinion on how to clean and maintain pressure treated wood bird houses:
Pressure treated wood is often used for outdoor applications such as decks, fences, picnic tables and children's playsets. The lumber is commonly referred to as "pressure treated" or "PT" lumber. The process of pressure treating lumber forces a chemical preservative deep into the wood fibers making the lumber much more durable and rot resistant. Exposure to the elements and sunlight will cause the pressure treated lumber to weather and turn a grayish color. Occasionally the lumber will also develop small cracks, also known as checking.
PT lumber is not maintenance free, but with a little care it will last for many years. The best way to prolong the life of your pressure treated lumber is to clean it on a regular basis and to refinish it with a good quality sealer or stain. Cleaning is especially important if the lumber is located in an area that is subject to high traffic or lots of dirt and debris.
To clean your pressure treated lumber, start by sweeping away any loose dirt or debris. Next, use a stiff bristled brush to scrub away any remaining dirt. Be sure to scrub in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the wood. If the lumber is very dirty, you may need to use a pressure washer to remove all the dirt and grime.
Once the pressure treated lumber is clean, you will need to apply a sealer or stain. This will help to protect the lumber from the sun and weather, and will also help to prevent cracking and checking. When choosing a sealer or stain, be sure to select one that is specifically designed for use on pressure treated lumber. Once the sealer or stain has been applied, you will need to reapply it on a yearly basis to maintain the protection.
What should I do if my pressure treated wood bird house starts to rot?
The best way to avoid pressure treated wood from rotting is to select a proper location for the bird house. Choosing a sunny location will help the bird house to dry out after any rain or weather conditions. Inspect the bird house regularly and if any rot is evident, take action to correct the issue. Depending on the severity, lightly sanding and/or repainting the bird house may be all that is necessary. If the rot is more significant, the bird house may need to be replaced.
Can I paint or stain pressure treated wood bird houses?
Pressure treated wood bird houses should not be painted or stained. The chemicals in pressure treated wood can be harmful to your birds if they come in contact with it. The chemicals can also be released into the air when the wood is being cut or drilled, which can be dangerous for both you and your birds. If you want to paint or stain your bird house, you should use a different type of wood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is pressure-treated wood safe for birdhouses?
There is no definitive answer, as little research has been conducted into the potential effects of using pressure-treated wood on birdhouses. However, it is generally considered safe for birds when used in this way. It is important to note that any treated wood should be properly protected from moisture and critters such as bats, squirrels, and bugs.
Does a birdhouse need to be treated?
No, birdhouses do not need to be treated.
What is the best wood to build a birdhouse with?
untreated wood
Can birds tell the difference between regular wood and pressure-treated wood?
A bird cannot tell the difference between regular wood and pressure treated lumber, so they would use a house made out of either type of wood the same. The only real difference between the two types of wood is the treatment process.
Is pressure-treated wood toxic to birds?
Pressure-treated wood may contain toxic chemicals that are harmful to birds.
