Lumber and Siding - Maintain treated plywood foundation?

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uwbadger78
08-29-09, 08:54 PM
In 1992 we added a small addition to our 1969 home. An inside corner was filled in to be an outside corner, approx 6X8' ~ our Kitchen sink is in this area. The contractor used a wood foundation to support this addition. I have now removed an old concrete patio, so the top 12-18" of the wood foundation is exposed. Before I build a new deck that will cover this area, I’d like to determine if/how the below grade plywood walls should be maintained. The plywood looks solid, but somewhat worn, with some flaking of the top layer. The back fill next to the plywood looks like a combination of sand and pea gravel or screenings. There is no plastic or coating on the wall. I'd like to dig all the way to the bottom, then treat or maintain the exposed wood, maybe add a layer of plastic and possibly add some exterior insulation. What is the best way to determine what is required? Thank you

marksr
08-30-09, 05:18 AM
Welcome to the forums!

What was that contractor thinking :eek: Unless I'm mistaken pt plywood is for above grade only! Is there a reason he didn't use masonary? Plastic might cause moisture between the plastic and wood, maybe tar paper would be ok.

stay tuned :D I'm sure others will chime in with more/better info :thumbup: