Heat-treated northern ash arrives on the jobsite with a brown color, but will turn silver gray just a short time after installation if not protected with an oil-based UV-protectant finish.
Heat-treated southern yellow pine is also available. The manufacturer recommends coating the decking with Seal It Green Xtreme to help preserve the decking’s golden brown color.
These boards are being treated with an oil-based coating. Water-based products can’t be used because the treated wood doesn’t absorb water.
While heat-treated wood quickly turns gray, it can be pressure-washed and re-treated to restore color. This deck was restored after a year in the sun.