Timber framed building - treated or untreated?

[dunny1234]

Hi, I'm about to start building a timber frame toilet/shower block on my campsite. All the groundworks have been completed and the base is 200mm above ground level.

The inside of the building will be well ventilated, but I'm unsure whether to use treated or untreated 2 by 4 inch timber.

If I use treated, I'm worried about the plaster cracking when the timbers shrink. But, will untreated timber last a long time?

So, there's my question, timber framed building - treated or untreated???

Thanks in advance

 

[ladylola]

I'd go for the pressure treated timber for longevity. As to movement of timber and cracking the treatment won't effect it at all unless it's dripping wet when you put it up. Saying that it's not uncommon to find untreated timber stored uncovered outside so can be delivered wetter than treated timbers. Stack and air dry it for a while if you can.

 

[AronSearle]

If the timber is above ground level, and the frame is properly built, then the timber won't get wet = no preservative needed other than the sole plate.

Treatment is just used in timber frame to satisfy insurance bodies.

 

[foxhole]

Hi, I'm about to start building a timber frame toilet/shower block on my campsite. All the groundworks have been completed and the base is 200mm above ground level.

The inside of the building will be well ventilated, but I'm unsure whether to use treated or untreated 2 by 4 inch timber.

If I use treated, I'm worried about the plaster cracking when the timbers shrink. But, will untreated timber last a long time?

So, there's my question, timber framed building - treated or untreated???

Thanks in advance

The inside of a shower block is very humid , where are you using plaster? normally best to have prefabricated [waterproof] shower stalls, walls etc.

 

[dunny1234]

Thanks for the advice. The shower bays will be pvc hygenic cladding, so they should be pretty watert tight. I'm not worried about the increase in price of treated timber, because the increase is small.

The thing that concerns me is the inside, toilet areas and sinks will be plasterboarded, and skimmed. Will this crack come summer?

 

[foxhole]

Thanks for the advice. The shower bays will be pvc hygenic cladding, so they should be pretty watert tight. I'm not worried about the increase in price of treated timber, because the increase is small.

The thing that concerns me is the inside, toilet areas and sinks will be plasterboarded, and skimmed. Will this crack come summer?

Probably destroyed by campers, all areas need to be vandal resisitant.

 

[^woody^]

Shrinkage of the frame will not affect internal finishes if it is boarded properly