How do you protect wooden posts in the ground?

Placing a thick layer of loose gravel at the bottom of the post hole will allow groundwater to trickle through the rocks and down away from the base of the post. This will prevent the post from rotting by keeping it constantly dry. You can purchase gravel at a local hardware store or landscaping-supply business.

What timber is suitable for ground contact?





UC4 timber

What is UC4 timber? UC4 treated timber refers to wood that has been treated to a standard that makes it suitable to be in permanent contact with the ground outside, for example timber posts or decking joists.

How do you keep untreated wood from rotting?

Chemical Protections. Even though natural weather-resistant wood is the best choice for outdoor exposure, at some point it becomes vulnerable to decay. The only way to properly use untreated wood of any type outside is with the addition of water-repellent preservatives, sealer or paint that contain UV protection.

Does timber need to be treated?

The simple truth is that you do NOT need to treat timber. Beetle will only attack timber if it is above about 17% total moisture content. That’s quite wet. The same goes for actual rot by fungus – timber is simply NOT going to rot if it is kept dry.

How do you keep fence posts from rotting at the ground level?





Place your fence post on top of the gravel drainage layer and fill the rest of the hole in with soil, ensuring it stands firm and steady. As an alternative, Postsaver sleeves are a cost-effective, simple way to keep wood rot at bay.

How long will treated wood last in ground?

The life expectancy of pressure treated wood in the ground is about 40 years before it begins to rot.

What wood can be used in the ground?

The three most widely available and suitable exterior lumber choices, not treated with chemical preservatives, include Western red cedar, redwood, and cypress. Your geographic location will determine the availability and cost of these materials.

Is C24 timber pressure treated?

About Our Treated Timber and Carcassing



We stock structurally graded C24 which complies with EN14081-2 and is pressure preservative treated with Tanalith E for a durable finish.

What does incised timber mean?

INCISING is a process in which to prepare wood for preservative treatments. Sharp steel teeth are pressed into all sides of lumber and timbers to increase the penetration of the chemical into the wood during the incising process.

What do you treat timber with?

Ideally, wood that has been treated with a preserver should also be treated with a suitable top coat such as an wood oil, wood paint or wood varnish. These top-coat products seal in the preserver and provide protection against weathering and wear from direct contact.

Why does wood need to be treated?



Treated wood is wood that has been appropriately treated with preservative chemicals with the intent of prolonging its intended usefulness lifecycle compared to untreated wood. Different types of applications and preservatives are used to protect wood fibers from: structural degradation. decay fungi.

Do you need to waterproof treated wood?

Although treated wood is protected against decay and termite attack, the application of a water-repellent sealer to all exposed wood surfaces is recommended upon completion of construction. This sealer will help control surface checking (splitting or cracking) and provide an attractive appearance.

What is the difference between pressure treated wood and treated wood?

The difference between the two is that pressure treated lumber will resist the elements better than untreated due to chemical preservatives added, and so will maintain its integrity in conditions that would cause normal wood to rot.

How do I make wood waterproof?

There are three surefire ways to waterproof your wood for years to come.

  1. Use linseed or Tung oil to create a beautiful and protective hand-rubbed finish.
  2. Seal the wood with coating of polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer.
  3. Finish and waterproof wood simultaneously with a stain-sealant combo.


How do you waterproof wood naturally?

Linseed, tung, refined hemp, soy, and walnut oil are all-natural oils that on their own can be used to seal and protect wood. They are called drying oils. Drying oils penetrate, harden and preserve wood – providing a long-lasting finish that does not turn rancid.

How do you prepare wood for outdoor use?

How To Treat Wood For Outdoor Use

  1. Step 1: Clean the surface of the wood and give it a light sanding.
  2. Step 2: Apply the sealer to the surface generously. …
  3. Step 3: Allow the sealant to dry completely. …
  4. Step 4: Lightly sand the surface again before applying another layer of sealant.

What is best to protect wood outside?

Which is the best exterior wood treatment?

  • Dulux Trade Opaque Coating Systems.
  • Just some of the top brands available at Wood Finishes Direct.
  • Oil based products are popular for garden decking, sheds and fences.
  • Sikkens Exterior Wood Treatments Seal and Protect.


How do you seal pine wood for outdoor use?

You can seal the pine wood using either Danish oil or linseed oil, which gives the surface a light blond color. To keep your surface looking good and fresh, repeat the application at a regular interval.

How do you treat raw pine wood?

Pine accepts clear finishes like varnish or polyurethane much like any other wood. Read the label on the can and apply according to the directions. First, however, seal any knots in the wood with a coat of clear shellac; this will keep pigments in the knots from bleeding into the finish.

How long will untreated pine last outside?

Untreated wood can last anywhere from a couple of months to over two years. If you are searching for a long-term project you might want to stick with treated wood or make sure you treat it yourself.