Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 3/26/2009

Question
building a home as green & secure as possible in houston texas.  since you
advised that wood is organic as a beam over steel, can you steer me to a non
toxic treated beam i could use in place of steel in texas.  this is for potentially
an ecrete block & then stucco home, 2 story. i looked at lowe's site, but i
need your help.  i look at green building sites, but does lowes or home depot
carry safe wooden beams YET?

Answer
Hi michelle, basically any non treated beam will fit your needs..contact your local lumber supplier, maybe Cox, 49 Lumber, or any lumber supplier other than Lowes or Home Depot if your beam needs are larger than 4x10 or 4x12..Most beams are not treated unless specified as pressure treated..The laminates and glues used in LVL beams, as far as I know is non-toxic also..your local truss manufacturer has the MSDS information on these products which specifies any toxic chemicals used in production.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com