scope:

This Standard specifies a method for testing the serviceability of decking boards exposed outdoors, out of contact with the ground, in a decking module closely resembling poorly ventilated decking in residential use. Since the experimental design is virtually identical, it may conveniently be run at the same time as AWPA E25-08 Standard Field Test for Evaluation of Wood Preservatives to be Used Above-Ground (UC3B) Decking Method. This test method is intended to be a commodity test.

The test method is suitable for evaluating the effects of, surface profiling, different wood preservatives, and additives such as dimensional stabilization and UV protectant treatments on commercially treated species. In addition the test method may also be used to compare different grain orientations and newly introduced wood species.