In the past, the use of stainless steel with new timber treatments was a topic under discussion. People were hesitant to use this material but thanks to new research from BANZ, certain stainless steel products are now recommended.
According to the report, the fastener material of choice (including nails and screws) should either be 304/316 grades of steel, or durable equivalents such as silicon bronze. This material is recommended for both 15- and 50-year situations where CuAz- (alternative copper azole-based) and ACQ (alkaline copper quaternary-based) treated timbers are used.
These types of alternative copper are becoming increasingly popular in the industry as they are being marketed as a more eco-friendly option than arsenic and chrome. One of the benefits of CuAz and ACQ is the fact that these materials contain preservatives that deal with the copper-tolerant species of molds and fungi that are traditionally kept under wraps by arsenic and chrome. When it comes to using metal with treated timber, however, the retained copper levels in both CuAz and ACQ are very high, which could influence the durability and corrosion resistance of the product.
In a new three-year study, Branz confirmed that significant corrosion rates were experienced by mild steel as well as galvanised nails and screws used as fasteners in CuAz and ACQ, which is why the use of 304/316 stainless steel fasteners are now recommended for all timber fasteners, including bolts and nails.
Marsh Fasteners provides a range of stainless steel fasteners that meet these requirements. Not only do we offer these products at wholesale prices, but our knowledgeable team will be able to guide you through the entire sales process. Browse our product range now.
