homeacq information In 2004, the EPA banned all instances of CCA treated lumber in residential use due to the hazardous chemicals it contains, Chromium and Arsenic. What should you use now? ACQ, or Alkaline Copper Quaternary contains 100% recycled copper and it is fast becoming the industry standard in pressure treated lumber. How does this affect what type of fastener is used? Aluminum and low-grade steel corrode quickly in the presence of copper because of their different chemical qualities. All pressure treated lumber requires Hot-Dipped Galvanized or better, protection, per the manufacturer. Why would I use Stainless Steel in place of Hot-Dipped Galvanized? In the presence of electrolytes, such as saltwater, copper will react quickly with any metal close to it on the galvanic series of metals and alloys, causing corrosion. Since 304 grade stainless steel is closer to copper in the series, corrosion is virtually nonexistent. For maximum corrosion protection, stainless steel is the only way to go. What guarantees do I have that Steelhead Brand® Fasteners will provide the corrosion protection I need? All STEELHEAD® Brand Hot-Dipped Galvanized Fasteners have been laboratory tested to meet ASTM A153 standards of protection and corrosion resistance STEELHEAD® Brand Stainless Steel Fasteners have been thoroughly tested to meet AISI 304 standards of quality and protection. Why would you choose anything less? Protect your investment by using STEELHEAD® Brand Fasteners for all your pressure treated lumber projects! The following links open recommended fastener information sheets provided by major suppliers of pressure treated lumber: Naturewood Fasteners Treated Wood