On Fri, 30 Mar 2007 21:31:19 CST, Nick Cramer
wrote:

"Phyllis and Jim" wrote:
We used Behr deck paint over (don't tell) treated lumber. Holds up
fine. We reapint the top surfaces. Bottom does not need it. No
peeling as of a decade.

More important, I think, is to protect against subterranean termites with
either concrete or stone footings.

The subterranean termite builds tunnels over concrete footings. They
are blind and folks still wonder how they knew to build tunnels up a
concrete elevator shaft to reach wood 20' above. Either the ground
around the base must be poisoned to the termite or the wood itself
must be treated. I use pressure treated because it is cheaper and the
poisons are know chemicals. Some people prefer cypress, redwood or
other trees with natural poisons that deter termites. Above the water
IMHO it isn't going to matter.

Check with a paint or wood treating specialist before painting
pressure treated wood. Some paints cause the wood to rot and voids
any pressure treating warranty.

Regards,

Hal.