Why Preservation is Critical.
All unprotected exterior wood weathers and ages. The damaging effects of rain, melting snow, and mourning dew are quickly absorbed by unprotected wood causing it to soften and swell. The sun's heat causes drying which makes the wood shrink. These cycles of wet and dry, swelling and shrinking, cause wood to warp, split, crack, and cup. Unprotected wood also turns gray or black and loses its natural look due to a wide variety of problems including mold, mildew, failed finishes, UV degradation, and water damage. Left unprotected, this natural process leads to wood rot and structural decay. Eventually, this could lead to thousands of dollars in repairs or even a total loss.
It is a common misconception that pressure-treated wood, which is the most often used for decks, requires little maintenance. The pressure-treated process involves the injection of chromate copper arsenate ( CCA ) into the wood cells. Copper acts as a fungicide, while arsenic is an insecticide. While these chemicals protect against insects and fungus, they leave the surface vulnerable to the effects of rain and sun. Even cedar and redwood, two other common woods used for decks, can be damaged by the elements.
Newly installed wood should be protected as soon as possible. It is not necessary to allow the wood to "weather" or "season". Unprotected exposure to the elements, for even a couple months, can result in damage to the wood.
GOOD NEWS !! There is an answer.
Properly maintaining your log home or other exposed wood structure can extend the life of the wood indefinitely. Whether you have a new wood home or an aging wood structure, GEORGIA WOOD CARE can properly restore, preserve, and protect the wood to add beauty and extend it's life.
For more information, or for a Free Estimate please contact GWC.
(770) 720-2340
We are fully Licensed and Insured.