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Compatibility with other materials

This section provides information on the compatibility of timber with other materials.

Timber is used for a multitude of uses  and the diverse range of substrates used in buildings means timber will be in contact with these materials - different wood species and treatments, dampcourse, insulation, concrete, steel, building wraps, sealants, cladding materials, wallboard, rubber coating on electrical wiring and PVC used in plumbing fittings, etc.

While few problems are encountered with treated timber, care is needed to ensure any residual solvent in LOSP treated timber is flashed off first.

The hydrocarbon solvent may soften some material such as polystyrene. Timber should also be ‘dry’ to avoid potential corrosive effects on metals where high concentrations of copper-based preservatives are used.