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ACQ Lumber Replaced CCA Treated Lumber
Why is CCA lumber no longer being sold?
In early 2004, Sutherlands, along with most other retail lumber dealers
in the United States, began phasing in ACQ (Alkaline Copper
Quaternary) lumber to replace CCA & Wolmanized ® lumber. The Preservative
manufacturers are voluntarily taking this action based on negative
public perception of CCA, media coverage and growing consumer interest
in using an alternate wood preservative.
What is ACQ Lumber?
ACQ is a copper based preservative system that is the most
cost-effective alternative to CCA. ACQ has been researched and tested
since the late 1980's. It was introduced commercially in 1992. ACQ
provides dependable performance and is building code compliant (NER
628). It treats a wider range softwood lumber species, and is quality
assured by a third party (TPI or SPIB). Like CCA, it is treated against
decay and insect damage.
What is ACQ lumber approved for?
ACQ is ideal for structural uses, sill plates, outdoor furniture,
playground equipment, patios, decks, garden edging and landscaping
structures. The preservatives in ACQ products meet American Wood
Preservers Association standards.
Are there different grades of ACQ lumber?
Yes. The same formula used for CCA lumber applies to ACQ
treated lumber for the following applications:
- Above Ground
(.25)
- Ground
Contact (.40)
- Fresh Water
Contact (.40)
Can I use the same metal fasteners as CCA lumber?
The chemicals used in ACQ will corrode ordinary galvanized fasteners,
therefore special consideration must be taken when working with ACQ
lumber. Hot dipped or stainless steel fasteners MUST be used with ACQ.
The following
products are available at most Sutherlands locations for use with ACQ
products. Manufacturers recommend these lines of product to be used with
ACQ treated lumber:
- Simpson
Strong-Tie - ZMAX (G185) Hot-Dip Galvanized or Stainless steel
fasteners
- USP
Structural Connectors - Triple Zinc G-185 Connectors
- Prime source
Fastening Systems - Prime Guard Plus - Coated Fasteners
Please note:
One-half inch (12.7mm) or greater steel bolts are acceptable and do not
require special coatings.
Aluminum should
not be used in direct contact with ACQ preserved wood. Spacer
materials or some other physical
barrier are recommended to prevent direct contact. A poly barrier is
recommended for any applications where ACQ will meet aluminum flashing.
Do not use aluminum fasteners.
Will ACQ lumber look the same as CCA?
When purchased, freshly treated ACQ is the familiar green color like CCA.
It will weather to a tan/brown color in months and eventually weather to
gray over time.
For more information, check these other resources:
Simpson Strong-Tie
USP Connectors
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