Crawford Research & Consulting offers in-house and in-field wood preservation research services that are customized to client needs. Field durability testing is offered for periods of up to five years.

On March 17, 2004, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued cancellation and use termination requirements affecting virtually all residential applications of wood treated with chromated copper arsenate (CCA). These CCA products, prohibited for use after December 30, 2003, have long been used in the treating of lumber intended for most residential applications, including play structures, decks, picnic tables, landscaping timbers, residential fencing, patios and walkways/boardwalks.

A new generation of wood preservative products, including ACQ and CBA has been introduced, but the research and long-term effects of these products not just on wood, but on the environment and human health is not complete. During registration review, the EPA will determine the availability of alternatives to the remaining uses of CCA. Still, consumers want to be assured, and will demand that the products they purchase be safe and effective, long term. My research and consulting company focuses on providing these answers for consumers and for manufacturers.