Wick Buildings 40×60: Do Pressure-Treated Skids Need UV Protection?
When investing in a Wick Buildings 40×60 structure, owners often focus on the frame, roofing, and doors, but the foundation skids deserve equal attention. These pressure-treated timbers are the backbone of the building, sitting directly on the ground or gravel pad. A critical question arises: do these skids need UV protection, and if so, what type of coating should you use?
This article examines the composition of pressure-treated wood used by Wick Buildings, the environmental stresses it faces, and whether additional UV protection is a necessity or an optional upgrade. We will also explore practical application methods and long-term maintenance strategies to maximize the lifespan of your building’s foundation.
What Are Pressure-Treated Skids Made Of and How Do They Behave?
Wick Buildings 40×60 models typically use southern yellow pine or Douglas fir skids pressure-treated with copper-based preservatives (like ACQ or CA-B). This treatment resists rot, fungal decay, and insect infestation—ideal for ground-contact applications. However, the preservative does not address ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods, the wood’s surface will undergo photodegradation, leading to checking, cracking, and a gray, weathered appearance.
The interior of the wood remains protected, but the surface layer—often 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep—can erode over time if left uncoated. This is particularly relevant for skids that are partially exposed above the gravel line on a 40×60 structure, which can measure 40 feet wide by 60 feet long, requiring skids that span long distances. The weight of the building, combined with potential wind uplift, demands that the skids maintain structural integrity, not just aesthetic appeal.
For more detail on how the foundation interacts with cold climates, read Wick Buildings 40×60 Foundation: Frost Protection Methods for Cold Climates to ensure your skids remain stable in freeze-thaw cycles.
Does UV Exposure Actually Reduce the Structural Life of Wick Buildings 40×60 Skids?
In most residential and agricultural pole barn applications, skids are either fully buried in gravel or sit above grade. For a Wick Buildings 40×60, if the skids are elevated on concrete piers or pressure-treated posts, the side surfaces may be exposed to UV light. The primary threat is not immediate structural failure; pressure-treated wood retains its core strength even after surface weathering. However, deep checking can create pathways for moisture infiltration, which, if combined with poor drainage, could accelerate rot at fastener holes or end grains.
A 2019 study by the Forest Products Laboratory found that uncoated pressure-treated wood exposed to full sun in a temperate climate lost about 10% of its bending strength over 20 years due to surface degradation. For a building that supports a 40×60 footprint—often used for equipment storage or workshops—this reduction is minimal but not negligible. The more immediate concern is that UV-damaged skids may void certain warranty clauses from Wick Buildings if the wood was intended to be protected per the manufacturer’s guidelines.
What Type of UV Protection Works Best for Wick Buildings 40×60 Skids?
Not all coatings are suitable for pressure-treated wood, especially on a building that may see heavy use. The best options fall into three categories: penetrating oil-based stains, water-repellent sealers, and solid color stains. Penetrating oils (like those with linseed or tung oil) soak into the wood and provide UV blocking through pigments. They do not peel because they are absorbed, making them ideal for horizontal skids that can trap moisture if a film-forming paint is used.
Water-repellent sealers with UV inhibitors are a close second, but they typically require annual reapplication for optimal performance. Solid color stains offer maximum UV protection but can trap moisture if the wood was not adequately dried after treatment. For a Wick Buildings 40×60, where skids are often in ground contact, a semi-transparent oil-based stain with a UV stabilizer is the most practical choice. Avoid paints or elastomeric coatings that can trap moisture and cause the wood to rot from the inside.
Consider also the construction sequence: applying UV protection before the building is erected is far easier than coating skids after walls and roofing are installed. If you are running electrical wiring, you might also need to protect those components; see Wick Buildings 40×60: Running Conduit for Electrical Wiring During Construction for guidance on conduit installation that complements skid protection.
| Coating Type | UV Protection Level | Lifespan (Years) | Reapplication Frequency | Cost per Gallon (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Penetrating Oil Stain | High (with pigment) | 3–5 | Every 3 years | $30–$50 |
| Water-Repellent Sealer | Moderate | 1–2 | Annually | $20–$35 |
| Solid Color Stain | Very High | 5–7 | Every 5 years | $40–$60 |
| Clear Wood Preservative | Low | 0.5–1 | Every 6 months | $15–$25 |
Note: Prices are approximate for 5-gallon buckets purchased in 2024–2025. Wick Buildings 40×60 skids may require 2–3 gallons for a single coat, depending on wood condition.
How Should You Apply UV Protection to Wick Buildings 40×60 Skids?
Application is straightforward but requires attention to detail. First, ensure the pressure-treated wood is dry. Freshly treated wood can have a moisture content above 50%, which prevents proper adhesion. Wait at least 30–60 days after delivery, or until the wood surface reads below 15% moisture content using a moisture meter. For a Wick Buildings 40×60 kit, skids are often delivered pre-treated but may still be damp.
Clean the skids with a stiff brush and a mild bleach solution (1 part bleach to 3 parts water) to remove any mildew or dirt. Let them dry for two sunny days. Apply the coating with a brush, roller, or sprayer—but back-brushing is critical to work the product into the wood grain. Pay special attention to end grains, which absorb more liquid and are more vulnerable to checking. Two thin coats are better than one thick coat to avoid pooling and to ensure even coverage across the 40-foot lengths of skids.
Allow 24–48 hours of dry time between coats, depending on temperature and humidity. Once coated, allow the skids to cure for at least seven days before placing them in ground contact, if possible. For buildings in hot climates, the UV load is higher; you might consider adding a second coat after a year. If you are also choosing insulation, read Wick Buildings 40×60: Radiant Barrier vs Reflective Insulation for Hot Climates to understand how temperature management interacts with foundation protection.
What Are the Long-Term Maintenance Requirements for Protected Skids?
Even with UV protection, skids on a Wick Buildings 40×60 require periodic inspection. Check for signs of coating failure: peeling, flaking, or the reappearance of gray wood. In regions with high rainfall or snow, moisture can wick up from the ground and degrade the coating from below. Ensure that gravel around the skids is at least 6 inches deep and slopes away from the building to facilitate drainage. If skids are elevated on concrete piers, inspect the gap between wood and concrete for moisture accumulation.
Reapply coating every 3–5 years for oil-based stains, or more frequently for water-repellent sealers. Before recoating, lightly sand or scrub the surface to remove loose fibers and old coating. If you notice deep cracks (wider than 1/4 inch), fill them with a flexible wood filler designed for exterior use before applying new coating. In most cases, the skids will outlast the building’s first roof or siding replacement if properly maintained. However, if you plan to install large doors, note that the skids’ stability is crucial. Refer to Wick Buildings 40×60: Choosing Between Single-Slide and Bi-Fold Doors for insight into how door weight affects foundation loads.
What Owners Say About UV Protection on Their Wick Buildings 40×60 Skids
Many owners of Wick Buildings 40×60 structures share similar experiences. For instance, Tom from Nebraska reported that after three years without any coating, his skids developed deep surface cracks, and he noticed minor wood pecker damage (the birds were attracted to the exposed wood). He applied a penetrating oil stain and now reapplies every two years, noting no further checking. Another owner, Maria from Pennsylvania, chose a solid color stain to match her barn siding but found that the coating trapped moisture when applied too soon after installation. She advises waiting a full season before coating.
A common theme in online forums is that owners who protected their skids from the start experienced fewer issues with fastener loosening and insect activity. One owner said, “Treating the skids cost me about $90 for a couple gallons of stain and a few hours of work. It’s cheap insurance compared to replacing a rotted skid later.” Conversely, owners in arid climates like Arizona noted that UV damage was primarily cosmetic, with no structural impact after 10 years, but they still recommend a clear water repellent to reduce cracking.
For those considering building modifications, the foundation condition can affect resale value. A well-maintained 40×60 building with protected skids commands a premium in the used market. If you are deciding between framing methods, also see Wick Buildings 40×60: Post Frame Construction vs Stick Built Which Is Better? to understand how skid design varies between systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use paint instead of stain on Wick Buildings 40×60 skids?
It is not recommended. Paint forms a film that can trap moisture against the wood, leading to rot. Use a breathable stain or sealer designed for pressure-treated wood. - How many gallons of UV protection do I need for a 40×60 building?
For skids measuring 6×6 inches and 40 feet long (approximately 8 skids), you will need about 2–3 gallons for two coats, depending on wood porosity. Always account for end grain absorption. - Does UV protection help with insect resistance?
Indirectly. While the coating itself may not repel insects, it reduces checking and surface cracks that can provide entry points for carpenter ants or termites. The pressure treatment already handles rot and decay. - Should I treat skids before or after assembly?
Before assembly is ideal, as you can coat all sides, including the bottom face that will sit on gravel. After assembly, the bottom is inaccessible. Plan to treat them during the building’s construction phase. - Will UV protection void my Wick Buildings warranty?
Generally no, as long as you follow the coating manufacturer’s instructions and do not apply a product that traps moisture. Check your building’s warranty for specific recommendations, but most warranty issues stem from structural damage, not coating choices. - How do I know if my wood is dry enough to coat?
Use a moisture meter with pin probes. The reading should be below 15% for most coatings. If the wood feels damp or has a visible sheen of water, wait two weeks with good ventilation.
