I'm planning to fix up a small privacy fence and want to make sure the fence posts last as long as possible. I'll be using pressure-treated (PT) wood, but I'm curious if anyone has tips or products that can help further preserve the part that goes underground. I've heard suggestions like using copper naphthenate or roof cement. Also, just a heads up, I'm in Canada, where we experience a lot of weather changes. Any advice?
3 Answers
I’ve seen people use a variety of treatments to preserve posts. Some have tar spread all over them, while others have been soaked in used motor oil. Personally, I treat the end of my ACQ (Alkaline Copper Quaternary) treated lumber with Woodlife CopperCoat. It smells pretty strong, but none of my posts have rotted out yet! It's been over 10 years and my soil drains well. Just something to consider!
Heavily treated pressure treated wood rated for ground contact is a must! In my area, driven wooden posts have outlasted concrete ones, so consider your soil conditions. You can also use post sleeves designed to protect the wood underground. Oh, and steer clear of 4x4s if possible—they twist and warp way too easily!
Great tip on the sleeves! I hadn't thought of that, but it makes sense.
You might want to consider using fibered foundation seal. It’s thick and really helps. Just make sure to wait a couple of days before putting them in the hole, and backfill with flowable gravel instead of dirt or clay. Also, don’t forget to cap your posts to keep rainwater off the wood!
That sounds like a solid plan! I might give that CopperCoat a try. It's good to know your posts have held up well.