The rafter system, being an important component of the structure of the roof and the entire house, is often made from lumber. Wood, as you know, is susceptible to biological decomposition, mold, mildew, and insects. Therefore, in order to protect the construction material, it is necessary to treat the rafter system with special compounds. And how to treat rafters is described in detail in this review.

Basic properties of protective compounds

Protective agents (antiseptics) used to treat rafters, sheathing and other wooden roof elements have the following important properties:

• They penetrate deeply into the wood.
• They are applied easily to the surface and dry quickly.
• Do not interfere with normal ventilation of the processed material.
• Safe for humans and animals, non-volatile, do not irritate the skin.
• They do not lose their properties upon contact with water.
• They create a reliable protective barrier against biological destruction and fire of wood.

Most protective agents can also improve the decorative properties of wooden elements. This is achieved due to the alkyd resin contained in the composition, which changes the shade of the wood.

A unified characterization of properties requires a more detailed consideration in the context of a specific composition. Therefore, at the preparatory stage it is necessary to correctly prioritize and decide on the main processing task. For operation in humid climates, the following processing sequence will be optimal:

• The first layer is a deeply penetrating antiseptic.
• The next step is the application of fire retardants, which make the wood resistant to fire.

It is important to maintain consistency when processing rafters. The enhancement of specific properties - biological resistance or fire protection - depends on which composition is applied first.

Types of wood preservatives

Wood antiseptic is an impregnating composition that has special properties aimed at destroying mold, mildew and insects that destroy the integrity of lumber.

Types of wood antiseptics depending on the purpose:

• Preventative - used in the initial stages, immediately after purchasing lumber.
• Medicinal - designed to eliminate existing problems when the wood has already rotted or been damaged by insects. Sometimes it is appropriate to use such compositions as a preventive treatment, when it is assumed that the structure will be operated in unfavorable conditions (high humidity).

Types of antiseptics depending on the composition:

• Water-soluble ones are used for preventive purposes to treat surfaces that will not have direct contact with water in the future.
• Oil paints are used in cases where it is necessary to protect wood from moisture. The disadvantage of such products is flammability, unpleasant odor and the ability to change the color of the material.
• Antiseptics based on organic solvents are used when treating wood to give it hydrophobic (water-repellent) and adhesive (improving adhesion) properties. Can be used for both outdoor and interior work. After drying they form protective film.
• Combined - combine several properties (protect against insects, mold, mildew, and at the same time have fire-retardant properties).
• Winter antiseptics are used at temperatures as low as -15°C.

When choosing antiseptics for treating the rafter system, pay special attention to the instructions. Certain products can cause metal corrosion, react with adhesives and sealants, and be toxic.

Let's look at examples of antiseptics from various manufacturers:

	Antiseptic "Senezh Ecobio" is intended to protect wood from rot, mold, blue stain and insects (woodworms) indoors and outdoors (under a canopy) under conditions of hygroscopic and condensation moisture without contact with the ground, exposure to precipitation, soil moisture alone or in as a bioprotective primer for paints and varnishes.
	"Pinotex Impra" (Pinotex Impra) is an antiseptic (impregnation) for treating wood with deep penetration, water-based with a high content of biocides. Protects hidden wooden structures from mold, blue stains and rot. Has a green indicator to ensure uniform application. It has excellent impregnating properties and prevents moisture from penetrating into wood. Easy to apply, without splashing or drips. Does not have a pungent odor.
	"Drevotex" is a remedy against the possible occurrence of rot, mold and insects inside wood. Designed for processing wooden structures that are located indoors or under a canopy. Suitable for use in moderate weather conditions. It practically does not wash out when moisture gets on it and does not interfere with the passage of air to the wood.

It is worth noting that there were particular examples of antiseptic compositions considered. If you study the entire range in more detail, you can highlight a huge variety of products. So, for example, in the Senezh line of antiseptics there are the following positions:

• "Senezh aquadecor" is a tinted antiseptic on an alkyd-acrylate base with a UV filter and wax for long-term protection and finishing of wood.
• "Senezh ecobio" - economical colorless antisepticfor indoors and wooden structures under a canopy.
• "Senezh Ultra" is an economical, hard-to-clean antiseptic for wood for external and internal use.
• "Senezh" is a preservative, difficult-to-wash-out antiseptic for critical structures in harsh operating conditions.
• "Senezh Bio" is a preservative, difficult-to-wash-out antiseptic for residential buildings in harsh operating conditions.
• "Senezh impra" is a concentrated, non-washable antiseptic without chromium for deep impregnation of wood.

Fire retardants for rafter systems

Fire retardants are special compounds that increase wood's resistance to fire and reduce flammability.

In most cases, fire retardants are applied as a second layer after antiseptics. However, if there is a high risk of fire in the rafter system, then they must be used as the main impregnation.

Depending on the specific purpose, fire retardants are divided into:

• Impregnations - salt solutions.
• Coating agents are in paste form.
• Varnishes are used as a decorative coating.
• Paints create a thin film on the surface of the wood, which provides protection from fire.

When using fire retardant as the main means of treating rafters, impregnation would be the best option. Coating compounds are suitable if they are applied over an antiseptic.

Let's look at examples of compositions based on flame retardants from various manufacturers:

	The product "Senezh Ognebio" is intended for comprehensive protection of wood from fire, flame spread, rot, mold, blue stains and insects (woodworms) indoors and outdoors (under a canopy) under conditions of hygroscopic and condensation moisture without contact with the ground, exposure to precipitation , soil moisture.
	"Pirilax-Classic" (Pirilax Classic) is a fire- and bioprotective impregnating composition for wood and wood-based materials. For external and internal works. The product protects wood from fire and stops the spread of flames. Destroys mold and wood-staining fungi, algae and prevents their reappearance. Protects against woodworm beetles. Increases the service life of wooden buildings. Reduces wood cracking and preserves the surface. Compatible with most paints and varnishes.
	"Neomid 450-1" is a highly effective fire protection and antiseptic agent for wood for external and internal work under conditions that prevent the composition from being washed out from the treated surface. Converts wood into a low-flammability and low-combustibility material, providing Group I (first) fire-retardant efficiency, protects against rotting and mold. Designed for comprehensive protection against fire and biological damage to wooden structures and products (walls, beams, building systems, load-bearing beams, ceilings, joists, window and door blocks).

As you can see, most fire retardants for rafters and other structures, containing fire retardants, also perform antiseptic functions. In fact, these are universal products with a pronounced fire-resistant effect.

Methods for applying protective compounds to rafters and sheathing

Same. Wood protection measures can be carried out in several ways:

• Immersion method. In this case, the rafters are treated by completely immersing them in an antiseptic. To work, you will need a large container (a bathtub or a regular pit covered with plastic film) filled with a protective compound.
• Surface application - spraying, spraying or painting. This technology is less effective. Therefore, for high-quality treatment, the compositions must be applied to the rafters and sheathing in several layers with an interval for drying.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that soft wood absorbs more antiseptic than hard wood, and coniferous wood, in addition, can release resin, which negatively affects the protective properties after treatment. Also, as noted above, it is important to decide how to process the rafters, and in what order to do it. Thus, the first applied product affects the protective characteristics more than the subsequent layer of another product.

The roof truss system is a wood material that is easily destroyed upon contact with moisture and quickly ignites in the event of a fire. How to treat rafters to extend their service life and prevent the formation of mold microflora. Which of the formulations available on the market is most effective? It depends on the type of wood and the prevailing climatic conditions. If it’s humid, you need protection from water; if it’s hot, you need to protect the wood from fire.

What should be the composition

Any product that you decide to use to cover the rafter system must meet the following requirements:

• penetrate deeply into the structure of wood fibers;
• do not contain copper sulfate, potassium bichromate, arsenic, chromium;
• dissolves well in water, but does not wash off from the tree;
• effectively protect floor beams and sheathing from mold, rot, fungus, and prevent fire.

After this, it is worth deciding what threatens the rafter system more – rot or fire. For humid climatic conditions, an antiseptic is chosen that will penetrate deeply into the wood, and after that it is additionally coated with a fire retardant. The fact is that wood can only be impregnated once. Strengthening the properties of wood to resist the formation of rot or fire depends on which composition is applied first.

What are the types of antiseptics?

Antiseptics for floor beams and sheathing can have an additional decorative effect. The product contains alkyd resin, which gives the wood a certain color. For the rafter system, water-soluble antiseptics are most often used. They have a number of advantages:

• penetrate deep into the wood structure;
• they are easy to apply to elements of the rafter system;
• dry quickly and allow the wood to breathe;
• form a moisture-proof film on the surface of the wood.

High-quality antiseptics must have antimicrobial (biocidal) and antifungal (fungicidal) properties, as well as provide reliable protection against insects - insecticidal properties.

Water-soluble substances predominantly contain sodium fluoride and silicofluoride, a mixture of borax and boric acid, pentachlorophenol, a mixture of zinc chloride with sodium (potassium) chromium. The compositions are toxic only to microorganisms and are completely harmless to humans. There are also products soluble in oil, petroleum products and light solvents.

Methods of applying antiseptics

Impregnation (surface impregnation with an antiseptic) is carried out by completely immersing wooden elements in the composition or by applying the substance with a spray bottle / regular brush. For immersion, use a special bath, trough or even a ditch, after lining the container with plastic film.

The immersion time of the material depends on the specific antiseptic. Typically, the manufacturer indicates on the packaging 30-60 minutes for wood of small and medium sections. When immersing large trusses, for example, for roofing made of natural tiles, the impregnation time is increased to four hours. After drying for 24 hours, all ends of wooden structures are treated.

When treating with an antiseptic manually by spraying, sprinkling or painting, the efficiency of penetration of the composition deep into the wood is noticeably reduced. Although this method requires a small amount of antiseptic composition.

The coating is carried out in several layers with an application interval of about half an hour.

The most popular antiseptics

The modern remedy Senezh has proven itself well in practice. This antiseptic can be used to treat roofing, wooden sheathing, and floor beams. The composition is presented in the form of a ready-to-use water-based solution. Its advantages:

• bioprotection for a period of 30-35 years;
• type of composition – difficult to wash out;
• chemical bond with wood;
• penetrates deeply into the fiber structure without increasing hygroscopicity;
• allows the tree to breathe;
• has a decorative effect.

The recommended consumption is 250-300 g/m. cube when applied without immersion, 60-80 kg/m. cube when soaking. Senezh penetrates deeply into floor beams and other elements, forming a two-level protective barrier. Prevents the development of fungi and mold microorganisms, insects. The manufacturer produces various series of antiseptics - Ultra, Bio, Thor, Sauna for specific wooden structures.

Estonian-made Pinotex Impra is highly effective. Suitable for bioprotection of floor beams, sheathing, mauerlats, rafters. It is a water-based antiseptic with an alkyd binder. It is deeply absorbed into the surface of the wood, providing good protection against rot, blue stains, and mold.

The consumption of the substance ranges from 85 to 200 g per square meter depending on the wood processing – sawn or planed. Pinotex Impra cannot be used for elements of the rafter system already affected by microorganisms, unlike the Senezh composition.

The product produced in Russia, Drevotex, is used to protect wood material from the formation of rot and mold. Main characteristics:

• effectively protects floor beams and boards from exposure to atmospheric moisture;
• the bio series is suitable for the prevention of healthy wood material, the anti-mold series is used for wood affected by focal microorganisms;
• type of impregnation – difficult to wash out, allows the wood to “breathe”;
• the bioprotection period of the rafter system with the complex agent Drevotex is about 30 years;
• product consumption is 250-350 g/sq.m. m when brushing and 200 kg/m. cube when immersed.

The product can be applied to new wood or as a treatment for existing roofing structures.

When choosing antiseptic compounds for floor beams, sheathing boards and mauerlats, it is necessary to pay attention to the moisture content of the wood, since not all antiseptics are suitable for wood with a moisture content of more than 20 percent.

Application of fire retardants

Fire protection is designed to give wood material additional qualities - fire resistance, reduced flammability. If you decide that the likelihood of a fire is higher than the possibility of rotting of the rafter structure, first of all, all wooden fragments of the roof should be treated with fire retardants.

They are classified into the first and second efficiency groups. The products of the first group provide fire protection for 5-7 years, so they are more effective. Most fire retardants are based on ammonium phosphates and sulfates, borax, boric acid and combinations of these substances.

All fire retardants are divided into:

1. Impregnations are solutions of salts that are applied manually or by immersion.
2. Coating fire retardants have a paste-like consistency.
3. Varnishes are used for decorative purposes. Their use on the roof is unnecessary.
4. Paints form a thin protective film on the surface.

Most often, to protect floor beams and rafters, impregnation is used, when the fire retardant will serve as the main protection, and coating, if the fire retardant is applied to the antiseptic. The methods of coating with fire protection are identical to the application of antiseptics. The market offers a large selection of compounds of the first and second categories. Neomid is very popular.

Since the composition has received mass positive feedback buyers, you can take a closer look at its properties.

Neomid 530 – fire protection

The product is suitable for any type of wood surface - sawn or planed floor beams, boards, rafters, sheathing. Main advantages:

• fire protection for ten years;
• has antiseptic properties;
• does not contain toxic substances and formaldehyde;
• does not interfere with further processing of wood;
• does not change the hygroscopicity of the material;
• supplied ready to use;
• made on a water basis;
• In terms of danger to humans, it occupies the same category as household chemicals - not dangerous.

Neomid compositions are available in different series. Some products are designed to protect floor beams and other elements of the rafter system from insects, rot, blue stains, and are used as wood bleaches. Neomid 530 is an effective fire protection that is currently the most popular.

Before processing rafters, you need to choose the right protection priority. The composition that is applied first will be the main one. The second substance will perform an additional protective function.

How and with what to treat rafters and sheathing - choose an antiseptic

For the manufacture of the rafter frame, in most cases, wood is used, which is susceptible to moisture and is very flammable. These factors must be combated, since restoring a destroyed rafter system will require much more effort. This article will discuss how to treat rafters and sheathing to protect them from fire and moisture.

Requirements for protective compounds

All products used to process rafter systems must meet the following requirements:

• Possibility of deep impregnation of wood;
• Absence of copper sulfate, potassium dichromate, arsenic or chromium;
• The ability to dissolve in water, but at the same time stick well to the surface of the wood even when it gets wet;
• Ensuring reliable protection of rafters and sheathing from various biological factors and ignition.

When deciding what to impregnate the rafters with, you must first of all start from what affects the rafter system strongest. If the region where the building is located is characterized by high air humidity, then antiseptics that need to be soaked into the wood will be most relevant. The sequence of processing is important - the composition applied first works much more efficiently than subsequent layers.

Types and characteristics of antiseptics - what is the best treatment

Most antiseptics for rafter systems can increase the decorative properties of the structure when applied due to the alkyd resin included in the composition, which changes the shade of the wood.

The most popular antiseptics are water-soluble, which have the following advantages:

• Deep penetration into the wood structure;
• Easy to apply and quick to dry;
• Possibility of normal ventilation of wood;
• Creation of a moisture-proof film on the surface of wooden elements.

Regardless of the characteristics of the antiseptic, it should protect the wood well from germs, insects and fungi. In addition, any antiseptic for rafters must be harmless to human health.

Methods for applying antiseptic to rafters and sheathing

Treatment of the rafter system with an antiseptic is carried out by the impregnation method, which can be performed by completely immersing the elements of the rafter system in the composition or by surface application of a protective agent.

To process wood using the first method, you need any large container - a bathtub, a trough or a regular pit. The main thing is to completely cover it with plastic wrap before diving. The time required for deep impregnation of wood varies widely: thin wood can be impregnated in half an hour, while processing large structures can take up to four hours. When the impregnation of the rafter system is completed, you need to dry the part for 24 hours and process its edges.

All other methods - spraying, spraying or painting - are significantly less effective. But processing the rafter system using these methods will be somewhat simpler, and much less antiseptic will be required. In order for the treatment to be of high quality, the coating must be applied in several layers, allowing each of them to dry for at least half an hour.

The most popular antiseptics

One of the most common protective agents is the roof antiseptic Senezh, which has many advantages, including:

• Long service life, reaching 30-35 years;
• Reliable coating and good resistance to washing off;
• Excellent penetration into wood;
• Ensuring normal ventilation of the tree;
• Good decorative properties.

The water-soluble composition Senezh is excellent for processing wooden elements of the rafter system and sheathing. Penetrating into the wood structure, this impregnation for rafters provides two-layer protection against fungus, mold, insects and various microorganisms. Senezh product is available in several series - Ultra, Thor, Bio and Sauna, each of which is suitable for use in specific situations.

Another good remedy, suitable for processing the rafter frame - Pinotex Impra (Estonia). This antiseptic is made on the basis of water, and an alkyd substance is used as a binder. Pinotex quite effectively protects wood from various biological damage. The main disadvantage is that treating rafters with Pinotex antiseptic is impossible if they are already damaged.

A good alternative to foreign products is the domestic antiseptic Drevotex, which provides reliable protection of the wooden elements of the rafter frame from moisture and biological factors. This product is produced in several series: the Bio series is used to treat new boards, and the compositions of the Anti-Mold series are designed specifically for restoring wood that already has lesions.

Drevotex practically does not wash out when moisture gets on it and does not interfere with the passage of air to the wood. The service life of the applied coating can reach 30 years. If you approach the issue of choosing a series wisely, then this product is perfect for any situation. Before choosing, you should check the wood for humidity - many antiseptics are not suitable for treating wood with a humidity above 20%.

Types and characteristics of fire retardants for the rafter system

Fire retardants are agents that increase wood's resistance to fire and reduce flammability. When deciding whether to treat the rafters with a fire retardant, it is worth understanding which factors will have a stronger impact on the frame. Most often, these products are applied secondarily, but if there is a high risk of fire in the rafter structure, then they should be used as the main impregnation.

All fire retardants are divided into two effectiveness groups. The first group is more efficient and durable - these products provide fire protection for about 5-7 years. The second group, accordingly, is somewhat less effective.

Depending on individual characteristics, fire retardants are classified as follows:

1. Impregnations. These substances are salt solutions that are applied to the wood by immersion or manual processing.
2. Lubricants. This category of fire retardants is distinguished by its paste form.
3. Lucky. Varnishes are most often used as a decorative coating, so their use for treating rafters would be inappropriate.
4. Paints. These products create a thin film on the surface of the wood, which provides protection from fire.

If you plan to use a fire retardant as the main protective agent, then it is worth using impregnations. When applying a fire retardant over an antiseptic, coating compounds are best suited. The technology for treating wood with fire retardants is no different from the technology for applying antiseptics.

Fire retardant Neomid for treating wooden roofing elements

One of the most popular means used for fire protection is Neomid, suitable for processing all types of wood. There are many varieties of Neomid - in addition to increasing fire resistance, they can act as antiseptics, protecting wood from the most typical influences.

The list of advantages of this product looks very impressive and includes the following qualities:

• Long service life (up to 10 years);
• Presence of antiseptic properties;
• No toxic or hazardous substances to human health in the composition;
• If necessary, the wood can be treated over Neomid;
• Wood after treatment does not change the degree of moisture absorption;
• The water-based protective composition Neomid can be used immediately after purchase, without additional preparation.

Conclusion

Before processing the rafter frame, you must decide how to process the rafters first. The composition applied first affects the characteristics of the wood much more than the next layer of protection.

What antiseptic to treat the rafter system with?

Different types of wood resist rot in different ways, and sometimes it is necessary to artificially enhance certain properties of the material. Coating with special compounds is therefore necessary to protect against both fungus and fire. How to treat the rafters first, and what to choose as an addition, must be decided immediately. After all, it will not be possible to soak them twice: first with an antiseptic, and then with antipyrine, which protects them from flames. Based on the climate, it is necessary to determine whether rot or fire is primarily a threat to the lumber. For impregnation, a basic composition is selected that penetrates deep into the wood fiber. Then it is coated with an additional composition.

Treating rafters with an antiseptic is necessary to ensure that the wood lasts longer.

Compositions for treating roof trusses

As a rule, in areas that are not too dry, wood suffers more from fungus. Rafters are processed taking into account their condition. Usually an aqueous solution of some product is used. However, for wood already infected with fungus, it is necessary to use special disinfectant impregnations. Special compounds are also selected to protect against beetle larvae. At the same time, it is unsafe to treat rafters with several drugs at the same time, because it is unknown how they will interact with each other.

Do not use chemicals such as copper sulfate or potassium dichromate. They not only change the color of the tree, but are also quite strong poisons. Now in construction stores there are many compounds that can effectively impregnate a rafter beam: Senezh, Drevotex, Olympus, Rogneda. They are environmentally friendly, non-toxic and provide more lasting results. Some of them are produced in series designed for specific types of disinfection. from beetles, mold, mildew, and also especially for end parts. This allows the entire rafter system to be completely protected.

In industry, the consumption of the substance is about 3 kilograms per cubic meter of wood. It is not used in such quantities in everyday life. The product is diluted with water in a ratio of one to nine. When applied in two layers, no more than 200 milliliters of the original chemical are consumed per square meter of surface. Although experts believe that truly reliable treatment of rafters should be carried out in 5-8 layers.

We process the rafter system correctly

To make wood last longer, you can treat it with olive oil.

In industry, there is a rather complex, but very effective technology for preheating wood. Then, immersed in a cold solution, it quickly cools down and a reduced pressure is formed in it. This creates conditions for deeper penetration of the disinfectant composition. The product is kept in a container with an antiseptic for up to several hours. This operation is also carried out in autoclaves at high pressure, and then excess chemicals are removed using a vacuum method. In factory conditions, it is possible to achieve penetration of the composition to a depth of up to 15 mm.

The treatment can also be carried out at home. Often you have to do it in an already built house, covering the rafter beam with mortar using a roller and brush. This surface coating forms a protective film that will last from 2 to 8 years. Deep impregnation in this case can be carried out only with the help of special devices or under pressure. Therefore, if the assembly of the structure has not yet been completed, it is better to completely immerse its components in the product.

First you need to knock together a trough and line it from the inside with plastic film, securing the edges with a stapler. It should be slightly larger in length and width than the trusses that are immersed in it. For large structures, you can dig a ditch and also cover it with polyethylene. The container is filled with impregnation and the rafters are alternately immersed in it for 30-60 minutes. Dry them for 24 hours, while ensuring air access from all four sides. It is advisable to perform this procedure twice.

However, this method is good if the wood moisture content is no more than 30% (for pine, no more than 25%). More raw material, as well as the processing of rafters with a fairly large cross-section, for example, for heavy tiles, require immersion in the solution for a long time, on average up to 4 hours. Otherwise, the protective layer will be too thin and can be washed away by rainwater.

In addition, the ends, grooves and other cuts must be additionally coated with the product manually, using a paint brush or paint brush. You can also apply the solution using a spray bottle. And, no matter how the rafters are processed, it is necessary to handle the impregnating layer with care and not violate its integrity. Damage may occur from contact with sharp-edged instruments or from being dropped from great heights.

Is it worth treating rafters with universal means?

Of course, repeated processing and coating. the process is labor-intensive. And there is always a temptation to bathe the future frame element in a bath with a universal solution just once, dry it and install it in place. Indeed, such impregnations have been developed and are already on sale. They contain, along with an antiseptic that protects against fungal infection, a solution of certain salts that protect against fire.

But the downside of such universalism is the impossibility of determining how well the material has been saturated. And after drying, it will not be possible to continue processing, since a protective film has already formed on top. In addition, the duration of action of various additives may differ significantly. For example, the effect of antiseptics is designed for 2 years, and antipyrines - for 10 years. Then fungus may develop in the wood protected from fire by these means. However, it is impossible to re-soak it with a disinfectant solution, since it is still covered with a protective film. So it is better to abandon such versatility in favor of quality.

Even if the roof structure equipped with an ideal under-roof ventilation system, the roof always remains an element of the house exposed to moisture. On the outside, this is precipitation, and on the inside, there are vapors rising from warm rooms and condensing in the upper part of the house, in particular, on the load-bearing roof structures - rafters. Open wooden structures, such as lower crowns made of logs and timber, and frame elements, are primarily exposed to constant moisture. This is especially true for areas with a humid climate.

A humid environment promotes the proliferation of microorganisms and insects. Therefore, mold and fungi can form on wooden surfaces, contributing to wood rotting. In addition to these microorganisms, wood-boring insects may choose roof rafters as a favorable habitat. Therefore, first of all, wooden structures require bioprotection - treatment with a chemical that is safe for people and animals, but prevents the proliferation of insects and microorganisms.

The second enemy dangerous to the rafters is fire. Wood is a flammable material. And this should not be forgotten, especially in areas with arid, hot climates. Therefore, for complete confidence in the fire safety of rafters, it is also recommended to treat them with fire retardants - fire protection agents.

Which product should I choose to treat rafters?

The modern market offers many effective means for bio- and fire protection of wooden structures. However, if you use them separately, the processing will have to be carried out in several stages. First, an antiseptic is applied in several layers, and only then flame retardants. The process is quite lengthy and labor-intensive Therefore, the most modern scientific development for the protection of wooden surfaces are universal products that contain both surfactants that prevent the proliferation of microorganisms and insects, and salt solutions that, upon contact with fire, form a resistant fire-retardant film. As a result, the wood changes its properties and becomes difficult to ignite.

One of the most modern universal means is “TECHNONICOL Fire and Bioprotection of Wood” (10 and 20 l). The impregnation contains a complex of highly effective biocides and fire retardants. The product is safe for people and animals, does not contain arsenic and chromium compounds.

It is ideal for protecting wooden structures both indoors and outdoors. However, the external elements should not come into contact with the ground and be exposed to precipitation.

Advantages of TECHNONICOL Fire and Bioprotection for Wood

• The product is applied once at a rate of at least 500 g/m². It is at this consumption that wood becomes a material that is difficult to ignite and acquires the properties of substances that belong to group I of fire protection.
• Impregnation provides fire protection for more than 7 years, and bioprotection for 20 years, which eliminates the process of rotting under the fire retardant film.
• The structure and properties of wood do not change during processing; the impregnation is not subject to aging, leaching and salting out.
• The product can be applied both for the first time and on previously treated surfaces. After that wooden surfaces can be glued, coated with any paint and varnish materials.

Application rules

• Wooden surfaces must be cleaned of shavings, sawdust, dust and old paint. If the wood has already been infected with mold, which has affected the color change, it is necessary to use wood bleach before applying the impregnation.
• If the product is used on a finished roof structure, then a roller, brush, or sprayer are used. In this case, the product is applied generously and evenly.
• If the rafters have not yet been installed, it is better to immerse them in the solution for 30-60 minutes. This method is convenient for simultaneous processing of a large number of wood parts.
• Processing must be carried out at a temperature not lower than +5°C. In this case, it is necessary to prevent water and precipitation from coming into contact with the treated surfaces.
• When using impregnation, you need to protect glass surfaces. Be sure to use personal protective equipment: goggles, mask, gloves. If the solution gets on your skin or eyes, rinse these areas with plenty of water.

Make sure that your roof rafters serve you for many years. Applying a universal fire protection agent to wooden structures will help you significantly save on roof repairs during its long-term operation.

The main final part of the construction of a house, bathhouse and other buildings is the installation of the sheathing and rafter system. They are made from wood, regardless of the main material used to build the walls. Wooden material is durable, a rafter system made from it can withstand the loads carried out by the roof. Before assembling the roof frame, you need to take care of the protective treatment of the wood.

Why do you need to treat rafters?

Over time, the strength characteristics of the sheathing and rafters may weaken due to the influence of biological agents on them. After all, wood is attractive to insects, fungi, mold, moss, etc. Under their influence wood material begins to deteriorate, often resulting in an irreversible process of rotting. All this can lead to the destruction of the roof. To protect the rafter system and sheathing from the unwanted effects of pests, it is necessary to use special protective compounds.

Another dangerous enemy of wood is fire. Due to high temperatures, the wood ignites and the fire spreads across the entire surface instantly. This can lead to a fire not only of the roof, but of the entire house.

Means for processing rafters and sheathing

It is imperative to purchase antiseptic compounds. Their use will help protect the rafter system from biological pests, insects and rot. You can prevent fire and further spread of fire by treating the rafter wood with fire retardants. Their compositions contain active flame retardant substances, which are responsible for the resistance of the wooden material to high temperatures. There are also complex bioprotective agents for treating wooden rafters. They protect the treated wood from the effects of biological pests and from fire.

Expert opinions

It is necessary to provide additional protection to the sheathing and rafter system. After all, wood, as you know, is susceptible to rotting. Microorganisms formed in the wood structure quickly begin to destroy the fibers, which leads to a deterioration in the strength properties of the entire structure. Antiseptics will help prevent the formation of biological pests for decades. But it is advisable to use powerful formulations that are indelible. It is also recommended to treat the rafter system with deep-penetrating antiseptics; their compositions penetrate deep into the wood structure of the rafters and provide it with longer-term biological protection.

For the construction of the rafter system, mainly coniferous species are used, which, due to the presence of their resin structure, ignite instantly. Therefore, it is necessary to use fire retardants, especially if the building is located in a hot climate. These compounds, after being applied to a wooden material, provide it with a second or first degree of fire resistance, it all depends on the product itself. It is better to purchase fire retardant impregnation with the most highest level resistance to fire. The task of fire retardants is to prevent fire from spreading to wood. This is accomplished by swelling of the film of the composition under the influence of high temperatures, and preventing the penetration of oxygen into the wooden material. Therefore, the fire cannot be maintained and gradually begins to die out.

Antiseptic and fire retardant products are available in a wide range. You can choose from domestic and foreign compositions. But as practice has shown, Russian goods do not differ in quality, and in some ways they are even superior to foreign ones. They also have an advantage regarding the cost of funds. Therefore, we recommend that you take a closer look at our manufacturers. Good reviews, the companies Neomid and Prosept are popular. Their products will help to reliably protect the rafter system and sheathing from rotting and fire.

Repeated treatment of the rafter system and sheathing with various protective compounds is inaccessible or inconvenient for many builders. After all, it takes a lot of time, effort, and also money. Therefore, to save and reduce operating time, you can use complex fire-bioprotective compounds. By treating wooden material with only one product, you can protect it from fire and from mold, rot, moisture, and insects. But if complex products are used, their protection period must be taken into account. The composition is effective against the formation of biological agents for about 5 years, and fire protection will be effective for 10 years.

Perform processing wooden structure recommended only in warm time year, best in summer. There is no point in applying protective compounds to frozen or damp wood, its fibers will not absorb the protective agent.

Different types of wood resist rot in different ways, and sometimes it is necessary to artificially enhance certain properties of the material. Coating with special compounds is therefore necessary to protect against both fungus and fire. How to treat the rafters first, and what to choose as an addition, must be decided immediately. After all, it will not be possible to soak them twice: first with an antiseptic, and then with antipyrine, which protects them from flames. Based on the climate, it is necessary to determine whether rot or fire is primarily a threat to the lumber. For impregnation, a basic composition is selected that penetrates deep into the wood fiber. Then it is coated with an additional composition.

Treating rafters with an antiseptic is necessary to ensure that the wood lasts longer.

Compositions for treating roof trusses

As a rule, in areas that are not too dry, wood suffers more from fungus. Rafters are processed taking into account their condition. Usually an aqueous solution of some product is used. However, for wood already infected with fungus, it is necessary to use special disinfectant impregnations. Special compounds are also selected to protect against beetle larvae. At the same time, it is unsafe to treat rafters with several drugs at the same time, because it is unknown how they will interact with each other.

Do not use chemicals such as copper sulfate or potassium dichromate. They not only change the color of the tree, but are also quite strong poisons. Now in construction stores there are many compounds that can effectively impregnate a rafter beam: Senezh, Drevotex, Olympus, Rogneda. They are environmentally friendly, non-toxic and provide more lasting results. Some of them are produced in series designed for specific types of disinfection. from beetles, mold, mildew, and also especially for end parts. This allows you to completely protect everything.

In industry, the consumption of the substance is about 3 kilograms per cubic meter of wood. It is not used in such quantities in everyday life. The product is diluted with water in a ratio of one to nine. When applied in two layers, no more than 200 milliliters of the original chemical are consumed per square meter of surface. Although experts believe that truly reliable treatment of rafters should be carried out in 5-8 layers.

We process the rafter system correctly

To make wood last longer, you can treat it with olive oil.

In industry, there is a rather complex, but very effective technology for preheating wood. Then, immersed in a cold solution, it quickly cools down and a reduced pressure is formed in it. This creates conditions for deeper penetration of the disinfectant composition. The product is kept in a container with an antiseptic for up to several hours. This operation is also carried out in autoclaves at high pressure, and then excess chemicals are removed using a vacuum method. In factory conditions, it is possible to achieve penetration of the composition to a depth of up to 15 mm.

The treatment can also be carried out at home. Often you have to do it in an already built house, covering the rafter beam with mortar using a roller and brush. This surface coating forms a protective film that will last from 2 to 8 years. Deep impregnation in this case can be carried out only with the help of special devices or under pressure. Therefore, if the assembly of the structure has not yet been completed, it is better to completely immerse its components in the product.

First you need to knock together a trough and line it from the inside with plastic film, securing the edges with a stapler. It should be slightly larger in length and width than the trusses that are immersed in it. For large structures, you can dig a ditch and also cover it with polyethylene. The container is filled with impregnation and the rafters are alternately immersed in it for 30-60 minutes. Dry them for 24 hours, while ensuring air access from all four sides. It is advisable to perform this procedure twice.

However, this method is good if the wood moisture content is no more than 30% (for pine, no more than 25%). More raw material, as well as the processing of rafters with a fairly large cross-section, for example, for heavy tiles, require immersion in the solution for a long time, on average up to 4 hours. Otherwise, the protective layer will be too thin and can be washed away by rainwater.

In addition, the ends, grooves and other cuts must be additionally coated with the product manually, using a paint brush or paint brush. You can also apply the solution using a spray bottle. And, no matter how the rafters are processed, it is necessary to handle the impregnating layer with care and not violate its integrity. Damage may occur from contact with sharp-edged instruments or from being dropped from great heights.

Is it worth treating rafters with universal means?

Of course, repeated processing and coating. the process is labor-intensive. And there is always a temptation to bathe the future frame element in a bath with a universal solution just once, dry it and install it in place. Indeed, such impregnations have been developed and are already on sale. They contain, along with an antiseptic that protects against fungal infection, a solution of certain salts that protect against fire.