What is a common characteristic of pressure-treated lumber?

Pressure-treated lumber is specifically designed to resist decay, rot, and insect damage. The treatment process involves infusing the wood with chemicals under high pressure, which helps protect it from the elements and from pests like termites. This characteristic makes it ideal for outdoor projects, where wood is more susceptible to degradation due to moisture and insect activity.

In contrast, while lightweight lumber may exist, pressure-treated options are generally heavier due to the chemicals involved in the treatment. The finish of pressure-treated lumber is often not smooth because of the treatment process, which can leave the wood with a rough surface that may require additional sanding for some applications. Additionally, pressure-treated lumber is typically more expensive than untreated wood due to the extra processing and additives, providing further context to its specific market positioning.