Deck Focus: PWT is on a mission
The developers of PWT Treated LVL are on a mission to build better decks—or at least provide the decking substructure to get it done.
The science behind the product begins at the beginning, where the LVL—Laminated Veneer Lumber— is treated during the manufacturing process. Strength, stiffness and uniformity are all built in, and so is workability. PWT Treated LVL is lighter than pressure treated lumber of equal size.
“Our treated LVL product is the first time anybody's been able to use LVL for exterior use,” said Duane Smith, vice president of marketing and business development for PWT. “And it's really revolutionized how people are framing their decks.”
The manufacturing process treats the entire wood member uniformly throughout its cross section without adding VOCs or mineral solvents. On top of that, Treated LVL retains the full strength of the wood fiber. While other companies have tried to develop similar penetration technologies, PWT Treated LVL marks the first success.
“We're really the first ones in the world that have figured out this technology,” Smith said. “And we're the first manufacturer that's been able to use LVL in an exterior use.”
Sophisticated science is baked into the product, the company says. But for deck builders, there’s a simple and powerful story.
“We can span longer than traditional lumber,” Smith said. “We can also carry a heavier load so that you don't have to have as many columns underneath. So that's better and cleaner sight lines and better livability under a raised deck.”
But when comparing costs, the price per linear foot only tells part of the story. With fewer beams and columns needed, PWT Treated LVL reduces material and labor, making installation more efficient. Instead of just looking at lineal foot cost, the real value comes in the total installed, where labor savings offset the majority of increased material costs, delivering a stronger, longer-lasting deck with better overall value.
“Also, the deck joists stay perfectly flat and perfectly straight, which means your deck boards stay perfectly flat and perfectly straight,” he added.
Click here for more on PWT and the 2025 Field Guide to Decking.
