Pressure treated wood can be painted. Just not right away. Made that mistake once.
The Waiting Game
New pressure treated lumber is wet. Like really wet. Chemical treatment soaks it.
Paint over wet wood and it peels. Guaranteed. Maybe not this month but soon.
Wait 3-6 months depending on climate. Dry climates faster. Humid areas longer.
How To Tell It’s Ready
Sprinkle water on it. Beads up? Still too wet. Soaks in? Ready to go.
Or buy KDAT – kiln dried after treatment. Costs more. Ready immediately.
Prep Work
Clean it even if it looks clean. Pressure washer or deck cleaner. Mill glaze needs to come off.
Let it dry completely after cleaning. Another few days minimum.
Light sanding opens the grain. Helps primer grip. Don’t overdo it.
Primer
Exterior primer rated for PT wood. Not all primers are. Check the label.
One coat minimum. Two on end grain and cuts. These areas absorb moisture first.
Paint
Acrylic latex exterior paint. Quality matters for longevity. Cheap paint, short life.
Two coats. Let first coat cure fully. Usually 24 hours but check the can.
Maintenance
Repaint every 5-7 years. Touch up problem areas sooner. The south side weathers faster than north.
