Q: What are the advantages of KDAT lumber?
A: Wood labeled KDAT is “Kiln Dried After Treatment.” This process provides the benefits of composite material with the natural beauty and character of real wood. Dried to its original moisture content in a controlled environment, the wood dries evenly to minimize the natural tendency of freshly treated lumber to shrink, cup or warp. This high-quality lumber is the top choice for outdoor construction. Following pressure treatment, KDAT products are placed in a large oven, or kiln, where the excess moisture is removed. The stiffer and more dimensionally stable product reduces after-installation issues that occur when regular pressure-treated wood dries naturally. It also means your KDAT lumber should be kept elevated, covered and completely dry before installation. After installation, it needs to be stained, painted or sealed immediately, which is an added benefit because you don’t have to wait to finish the project. By comparison, freshly treated wood may take weeks or months to dry naturally enough to be finished. KDAT lumber is easy to handle, cut and install, and it weighs less than freshly treated lumber. The wood has a light, natural color for easy staining, painting or sealing.
