Pressure Treated Products
The lumber used to build our screened porches, decks, and fences is quality pressure treated lumber. Each piece will have a treated quality mark, which can appear either as an end tag or an ink stamp. This will assure you that the producer subscribes to rigorous quality control standards established by the American Wood Protection Association (AWPA).
Like all lumber, treated wood is rated according to its usefulness for certain purposes. Wood that is stamped for ABOVE GROUND exposure is ideal for applications such as decking or trim. Choose wood labeled GROUND CONTACT for components that will come into direct contact with the earth, such as deck posts and planters.
Warranty Information
Star Builders provides quality outdoor projects built to the design and exact specifications of our builders and customers. Star Builders begins by securing quality building materials from EPA sanctioned suppliers in our area. Projects are constructed by qualified carpenters dedicated to the craft of building safe structures that not only meet or exceed building codes but also add the beauty of wood to each home. Star Builders provides a one year warranty on the workmanship for our screen porches, decks, and fences. The wood carries a lifetime warranty against fungal decay and termite infestation.
Our warranty does not cover shrinking, warping, splitting, cracking, rips, or tears in fiberglass screening once the project is complete. Even with the proper care of pressure washing and staining with a quality stain, wood may still warp, split, or crack. Pressure treated wood can shrink up to 1/4" and this is considered normal. These are natural characteristics of wood exposed to the elements.
Care Instructions
To protect your investment and prevent excessive shrinking, warping, splitting, and cracking please review the following recommendations for sealing and staining the wood:
After installation of your deck, fence, or screened porch, an oil-based, water-repellant sealant containing UV protection will need to be applied. Wait 2-3 weeks in hot dry summer months and 4-6 weeks in cooler months.
Pressure-wash your deck, fence, or screened porch once a year to ensure a clean surface, and re-seal it with an oil-based, water-repellant product containing UV protection. Oil-based products are deeper penetrating stains that keep the wood supple. Your wood structure will stay beautiful if this is done.
Wood changes at the cellular level when it is cut and treated and then exposed to distress from sun and water. For example when the wood is exposed to water, the water is absorbed into the wood down to each cell if wet long enough. At some point moisture exits the wood when exposed to the sun. The wood is continually expanding and contracting. This process weakens the wood and can cause it to dry out, warp, splinter, or crack. The best strategy against this is a good defense. Please protect your wood structures by choosing a quality oil-based stain with UV protection, and seal the wood following the stain manufacturer's recommendations.
