Marking tape lines that just wouldnt stick to green lumber

Was framing a deck with pressure treated 2x6s yesterday and my chalk lines kept disappearing after 20 minutes in the sun. Tried the old wet chalk trick and it still faded out before I could cut. Anybody got a go-to method for keeping layout visible on fresh PT wood?

3 comments

3 Comments

kim.xena1mo ago

Use a sharpie. I know it feels wrong like you're vandalizing lumber, but it's the only thing that stays put on wet PT wood for me. I bought a pack of the industrial ones and just keep it in my apron, now my lines last through lunch and a trip to the hardware store for more screws.

norathomas1mo agoTop Commenter

Honestly, I used to think a pencil was the only way to go on PT wood. Felt like anything permanent was just asking for trouble if you messed up a cut line. But you're totally right about the Sharpie staying put. Tried it on a wet deck board last weekend and it didn't smear or fade after a rain shower. That industrial tip is a game changer too, makes it way easier to see on the rough grain.

kimreed1mo ago

Haha yeah sharpies just work on wet wood.