What Is ACQ-Treated Lumber?
Last Updated Mar 28, 2020 3:44:04 PM ET
ACQ-treated lumber is pressure-treated with alkaline copper quartenary, a copper-based chemical forced into the wood to preserve it against decay and insects. This preservative replaces the arsenic-based chemical preservative that was used for many years but was deemed too poisonous for use around children.
AC2-treated lumber reduces the risk of poisoning but causes regular nails, screws and deck hangers to corrode quickly, resulting in deck collapses in which people have been killed or injured. Building with this type of lumber requires care to select nails, screws and other fasteners that don't corrode. Special fasteners that are specifically designed for use with ACQ-treated materials are available from building material suppliers.
More From Reference
Will 5G Impact Our Cell Phone Plans (or Our Health?!)
The Secret Science of Solving Crossword Puzzles
Racist Phrases to Remove From Your Mental Lexicon
Is the Coronavirus Crisis Increasing America's Drug Overdoses?
Fact Check: What Power Does the President Really Have Over State Governors?
Festival of Sacrifice: The Past and Present of the Islamic Holiday of Eid al-Adha