Effects of Acid Deposition on Wood

Abstract

Since acid deposition increases the rate of deterioration of unpainted wood, it can also affect the performance of paint applied to this weathered wood. In tests conducted near Madison, Wisconsin, smooth-planed wood was allowed to weather before painting. Exposure for as little as 2 weeks shortened the service life of the subsequently applied paint. The paint bond was weak and the paint eventually peeled. Acid concentration in rain near Madison tends to be much lower than that found in many other areas of the United States. High acid concentration would tend to produce more surface degradation and thus form a weaker paint bond. In any case, wood should be painted as soon as possible after it is installed outdoors.

Citation

Knaebe, Mark. 2013. Effects of Acid Deposition on Wood. USDA Forest Service, Forest Products Laboratory, FinishLine, 2013; 1 p.