Conrad Forest Products has a diverse inventory of softwood and hardwood products. Our specialty is Coastal Douglas fir, and we carry a variety of sizes, lengths and grades from which to choose, including #1 FOHC FOW, Dense No. 1, Rgh Stock, Glulams and Panel products. Other species of lumber, timbers and glulams are available. Remanufacture and manufacturing is available on all our products encompassing a wide variety of services, such as patterns, hole drilling, chamfering and more. We specialize in multi-dimensional packages. No order is too large or too small.

To our Most Valued Customers,  

CONRAD FOREST PRODUCTS is pleased to introduce our new educational newsletter dedicated to exploring the world of pressure treated wood and other building materials. CONRAD is committed to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. We believe that knowledge is a key component in selling and marketing building and landscaping materials. It is our aim to empower you and your team with valuable insights and information to assist in making the best decisions for your customers’ projects. 

Conrad’s Newsletter provides you and your team with:  
INFORMATION about different types of pressure treated wood and their ideal applications,  

TIPS on proper handling and maintenance to ensure the longevity of your products, and UPDATES on the latest industry news, innovations, and trends.  

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Today’s Newsletter focuses on ESSENTIAL and EASY CARE TIPS FOR WINTERIZING PRESSURE TREATED WOOD.   

The vibrant colors of early autumn remind us that winter is around the corner. While many customers focus on preparing their gardens and landscapes for the colder months, it's essential not to overlook the care of backyard projects built with long-lasting, attractive pressure-treated wood. Whether it's the deck, fence, or outdoor furniture, proper care in the fall ensures the longevity and beauty of these structures throughout the colder months of the year.  

Below are tips for the care and maintenance of treated wood projects. Many of these projects can also be performed during other times of the year, but planning for this time of year helps you remember.  

Clean Thoroughly 

It’s always good to ensure that backyard projects are clean. Before winter sets in, give pressure-treated wood surfaces a thorough cleaning. Use a mild detergent or specialized wood cleaner and a stiff brush to remove dirt, grime, and mildew. Rinse with a garden hose or pressure washer, being careful not to use excessive pressure, which can damage the wood's surface. This routine maintenance can be done yearly or every other year.  

Inspect for Damage  

Carefully inspect the pressure-treated wood for any signs of damage, such as loose boards, nails, or screws. Take this time to replace any damaged components and tighten loose fasteners to ensure the structure's stability throughout the winter. Or, if the maintenance is light, hold off until the early spring when preparing outdoor living space for regular use.  

Apply a Protective Finish  

If one chooses the Fall to clean the deck, plan to follow that up with a water repellent. This not only preserves the wood's natural beauty but also prevents moisture from seeping in and causing damage. Follow up in the spring with a deck stain once the wood is dry from any residual wetting.  

Clear Debris  

Falling leaves, twigs, and other debris can accumulate on the wood surfaces. Keep these areas clear to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. Regularly sweep or blow away debris, especially before snowfall.  

Snow Removal  

When snow accumulates, use a plastic snow shovel or a broom with soft bristles to remove it from wood surfaces gently. Avoid using metal shovels or sharp tools, as they can scratch or gouge the wood. Prompt snow removal prevents excess weight and pressure on your structures. Remember that wet and icy conditions can lead to hazardous situations on decks and deck steps. Preemptively salting or sanding the deck and steps can make a big difference in making the surfaces safe for use. Keeping the deck and stairs clear of ice and debris can help prolong the life of the deck.  

Avoid Ice Melts  

Avoid using ice melt products containing calcium chloride or rock salt on pressure-treated wood. These can damage the wood's surface. Instead, use sand for traction or calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) ice melt, which is less harmful to wood.  

CONRAD is here and happy to assist you and your team members with any of your building needs.  Please see our contact information below.  

Happy Fall!  

OUR GOAL IS OUR CUSTOMERS' SUCCESS!