creosote

[gerber]

I am about to remodel a home built in 1959. However, the house has a particular odor. A house inspector found that the wood under the house in the crawl space had been treated with creosote. I do not know how dangerous the fumes are or if it can coated with anything to seal the fumes. I need help.

[Jimmer]

Gerber,

Welcome to the forum!

Cresote treated wood is not recommended for interiors but since it is already there the next best thing is to seal it like you suggest. Urethane, epoxy, or shellac can be applied to the wood (at least two coats) to prevent the off-gassing. Be careful when working around cresote treated wood do not cut it unless wearing a dust mask and eye protection. Be sure to wash your hands and clothes after touching it.

The danger is really from ingesting it or absorbing it through the skin. It is nasty stuff but it does a great job preventing rot and insects.

Good luck, Jim

'Just a handyman trying to help'

[painter]

I agree with Jimmer.
Of the 3 (Urethane, epoxy, or shellac) I recommend shellac.
Shellac is an all-natural resin dissolved in alcohol. It has tenacious adhesion. It also forms a vapor barrier that will prevent odors from permeating into your living area.

Shellac is generally available in a 3 pound cut in just about every paint store. (3 pounds of shellac resin dissolved in 1 gallon of alcohol). But 4 and 5 pounds cuts are available. The greater the pound cut, the thicker the dry film. In any case, 2-3 coats of 3-pound cut shellac should solve the problem. Since shellac is alcohol based, it dries very quick (solely through solvent evaporation). Should be a pretty quick job.

If you are going to paint it, consider a white-pigmented shellac primer.