Pressure-Treated Lumber: Complete Buying Guide 2026
Pressure-treated lumber is chemically treated to resist rot, insects, and fungal decay. It is the standard choice for any wood structure in contact with the ground or exposed to moisture. In 2026, pressure-treated lumber prices average $5.50 per board foot, with a typical range of $3.80 to $8.20 depending on your region, supplier relationships, and order quantity.
When budgeting for a project using pressure-treated lumber, factor in approximately 10% additional material for waste, plus labor costs averaging $2.50 per board foot for professional installation. A typical project using this material runs approximately $3,200 including both materials and labor.
With an expected lifespan of 25 years, pressure-treated lumber represents a cost of approximately $0.22 per board foot per year of service life. This solid lifespan provides good value for most residential and commercial applications.