Choose Pressure Treated Lumber For Your Summer Project

Summer means deck and dock season across cottage country, from Barrie to Muskoka and South Georgian Bay. Choosing the right material now means fewer repairs, less maintenance, and a project that holds up through Ontario winters for years to come. When it comes to durability for these projects, pressure-treated wood remains one of the most trusted materials for outdoor builds. This guide covers what pressure-treated wood is, how it compares to composite decking and cedar, what it costs, and how to choose the right lumber for your project.

The Basics of Pressure Treated Lumber

Before choosing pressure treated lumber for your project, it helps to understand what actually makes it different from ordinary wood. Pressure treated lumber has undergone a chemical treatment process to improve its resistance to moisture, decay, insects, and fungi. During treatment, the lumber is placed in a pressurized chamber where preservatives are forced deep into the fibres, producing a material built for outdoor and high-moisture environments.

This is often used for decks, fences, docks, and posts exposed to moisture and weather year-round. If you're doing an outdoor project like these, this can be a great option; however, deciding where to source this lumber also makes a difference

Simcoe Building Centre carries premium pressure-treated lumber built on this same technology. Simcoe Building Centre has supplied contractors and homeowners across the region with building materials for over 65 years, giving our team the experience to help identify the right grade and dimension for your project.

Features and Benefits of MicroPro® Sienna Pressure Treated Lumber

• Durability: Treated with MicroPro® preservative technology, this lumber resists fungal decay, termites, and harsh weather for a long-lasting outdoor structure.

• Environmental Responsibility: MicroPro® treatment meets strict environmental standards, minimizing chemical use compared to traditional treatment methods.

• Aesthetic Appeal: Often called brown pressure treated, MicroPro® Sienna has a warm sienna brown tone that reduces the need for frequent staining or painting.

• Versatility: Suitable for decking, fences, landscaping, and general exterior construction.

• Corrosion Resistance: Safe for use in contact with aluminum above ground, even in high-moisture conditions.

• Proudly Made in Canada: Manufactured in Canada to meet local and global quality standards.

The result is a material that holds up to years of Ontario weather with far less maintenance than untreated wood.

Man installing pressure treated lumber fence boards in a backyard.

Pressure Treated Lumber vs. Composite Decking

Both materials hold up well outdoors, but they differ in cost, maintenance, and appearance. Composite decking is a manufactured decking material made from a mix of wood fibres and recycled plastic, designed to look like wood without some of the upkeep. It's a common choice for homeowners building a deck who want a consistent, low-maintenance surface and are willing to pay more upfront for it. Pressure-treated lumber remains the more traditional and economical option for the same job. Here's how the two compare:

Category	Pressure Treated Lumber	Composite Decking
Upfront Cost	Lower	Higher
Maintenance	Requires periodic staining or sealing	Minimal, no staining required
Appearance	Natural wood grain; fades to grey without a protective finish (treatment itself doesn't include UV protection)	Consistent colour, does not fade the same way
Lifespan	20+ years with proper maintenance and refinishing	25-30 years with minimal upkeep
Repairs	Individual boards easy to replace	Colour-matching and clip systems can make single-board replacement harder

Pressure-treated lumber is the practical choice for anyone comfortable with occasional maintenance and a lower upfront cost. Composite suits can be a good match for homeowners who'd rather pay more now and do less upkeep later. Either way, the right pick comes down to how you want to spend your time and your budget, not just the build itself.

Pressure Treated Lumber vs. Cedar

Some builders and homeowners prefer cedar for its natural colour and scent, and that preference is a legitimate one, not a lesser choice. Here is how the two compare.

Category	Pressure Treated Lumber	Cedar
Cost	Lower	Higher
Natural Insect & Rot Resistance	Chemically treated to resist both	Naturally resistant, though less than treated wood over time
Appearance	Brown tone, can be stained any colour	Warm, natural cedar tone many prefer untouched
Maintenance	Occasional staining or sealing recommended	Occasional finish recommended to preserve colour
Workability	Standard, use corrosion-resistant fasteners	Lightweight, easy to cut and work with

Pressure-treated lumber offers stronger built-in protection at a lower cost. Cedar offers a natural look that some homeowners simply prefer, and a well-maintained cedar structure lasts for years. Talk to our team about which fits your project and your budget.

Choosing the Right Treatment Level and Size

Not all pressure-treated lumber is rated the same way, and picking the wrong grade can shorten the life of your project. It comes down to where the wood is going:

• Touching the ground or sitting in water? You'll need ground contact-rated lumber. This is for posts, footings, or anything buried or sitting in standing water.

• Staying above ground? Above-ground-rated lumber is built for this, think deck boards and railings that never touch soil directly.

Once you know your rating, sizing is usually straightforward:

• 4x4 or 6x6 posts carry the weight on decks and pergolas.

• 2x6 or 2x8 boards are your go-to for decking and framing.

• 1x6 or 1x4 boards work well for fence pickets and trim.

One thing to keep in mind: pressure-treated lumber shrinks a little as it dries out after installation, so leave a bit of room when you're cutting and fitting boards.

What Does Pressure Treated Lumber Cost?

Pressure-treated lumber costs less upfront than composite decking or cedar, though pricing varies by dimension, treatment grade, and current market conditions. Ground contact-rated lumber and larger dimensions typically cost more than above-ground boards of the same length. For an accurate quote on your project, contact our team or request a quote.

Tips and Considerations When Building with Pressure Treated Lumber

• Colour Will Fade Over Time: Left unprotected, brown pressure-treated lumber will fade and eventually turn grey. Apply a protective finish once the treated wood is dry to the touch.

• Warping and Twisting: Moisture, weather, and temperature can cause pressure treated lumber to warp or twist. A protective finish helps keep moisture out.

• Bark Side Up: Install visible boards with the bark side facing up, so the visible tree rings arch upward.

• Field Cuts and Cut Ends: Treat all saw cuts, drill holes, and field cuts with a brush-on end-cut wood preservative like Cut-N-Seal®, following the manufacturer's directions.

Safety Considerations When Handling Pressure Treated Wood

• Wear gloves and a dust mask to avoid skin irritation and inhalation of sawdust.

• Use stainless steel or galvanized fasteners to prevent corrosion.

• Never burn pressure-treated wood, as it releases toxic chemicals.

• Wash hands and tools thoroughly after handling pressure-treated lumber.

Common Questions

Where can I buy pressure treated lumber in Barrie?

Simcoe Building Centre stocks pressure treated lumber in a range of dimensions and treatment grades, with locations serving Barrie, Simcoe County, Muskoka, South Georgian Bay, and Innisfil.

What is the best lumber for building a deck in Ontario?

Pressure-treated lumber rated for above-ground use is the standard choice for deck framing and decking boards in Ontario's climate. Ground contact-rated lumber should be used for any posts or footings touching soil.

Is pressure-treated lumber safe for a vegetable garden or raised bed?

Modern pressure-treated lumber uses preservatives approved for residential use, including garden beds. If you have specific concerns, our team can point you toward the right product for food-safe applications.

Where can I find the best price on pressure treated lumber in Barrie?

Pricing on pressure treated lumber varies by dimension, treatment grade, and current promotions. Simcoe Building Centre regularly runs seasonal pricing on pressure treated lumber, so it's worth asking our team in-store or contacting us for current pricing before you buy.

Planning Your Deck, Fence, or Dock Project? Start Here

• Confirm your treatment grade. Ground contact vs. above ground makes a real difference in how long your project lasts.

• Get your quantities right. Our team can help you estimate board counts and sizing before you buy.

• Ask about fasteners and finishes. Corrosion-resistant fasteners and the right protective finish extend the life of your build.

Talk to us about your specific project. Whether it is a deck in Barrie, a dock in Muskoka, or a fence in Innisfil, Simcoe Building Centre has the materials and product knowledge to help you get it right.

Looking to build a deck? Simcoe Building Centre offers a Deck Design service. Planning a dock? Browse our dock materials. Ready to get started? Contact us or request a quote today.