Pressure-treated lumber is ideal for some applications; for others, it's not. Today, you'll learn the pros and cons of treated wood, and why it is both bad and good. Pressure-treated wood is injected with chemicals, including copper, chromium and arsenic. Even trace amounts of arsenic are both deadly and with us forever. While degrees of concentration vary depending on how it is to be used (such as above ground on a deck vs. below grade on fence posts), it's all academic when it comes to kids and food. Manufacturers say it's basically harmless while advising that we handle it only with gloves and wash all clothing after working with it. While great for under-deck framing and fences, it's a no-no around gardens and wherever kids play. The one bright spot? A new geration II (called HCQ) is said to be nontoxic. Meanwhile caution is the order of the day. And that's the On The House tip for today.