The length of time a treated 4×4 post will last in the ground is largely dependent on the local climate and soil conditions. Generally, in a temperate climate with well-draining soil and with proper maintenance, a treated 4×4 post can last between 8 and 15 years.
Posts in areas with higher humidity and soils that are less well-draining, may need to be replaced more rapidly, as the treated post is more prone to rot. Additionally, if a post is not properly maintained, such as frequently painted or sealed to prevent rot, or is subject to lots of wear and tear, it may need to be replaced sooner rather than later.
Finally, applying a sealant to the top of a post (so water cannot penetrate) is recommended to further increase its lifetime.
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How do you keep treated posts from rotting?
To prevent treated posts from rotting, it is important to ensure they are properly sealed and treated with a good quality wood preservative. It is especially important to use a preservative that contains a fungicide, which will prevent the growth of fungi on the posts and also extend the life of the post substantially.
Additionally, it is best to apply at least two coats of the preservative to get full protection, plus an additional coat each year to maintain the protection. It is important to pay attention to all the instructions included with the preservative and to apply the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions in order to get the best results.
Once the preservative is applied, ensure that the wood is completely sealed off from moisture. If the posts are submerged in the ground, be sure to cover the tops of the posts with a water-resistant coating.
If the posts are being used for fencing or decking, be sure that seal off the tops and bottoms of the posts and use a good quality sealer and caulk to seal off the sides of the posts, as well. By taking these proactive measures, you can keep treated posts from rotting and extend their life significantly.
What is the life expectancy of pressure treated post?
The life expectancy of pressure treated post will depend on the type of post, the environment in which it is situated, and the care and maintenance that is provided. Generally, a quality pressure-treated post should last between 10-15 years.
However, posts in the ground can last up to 25 years if properly maintained, and posts positioned above ground or above water may be expected to last between 5-10 years. Pressure-treated posts can last even longer when additional long-term protective measures such as paint or sealant are applied.
Proper care and maintenance is important for the longevity of pressure-treated posts, as regular cleaning and staining can help to extend the life of the post considerably.
What destroys pressure treated wood?
Pressure treated wood is treated with a chemical preservative to make it more resistant to decay and insects. But it can still be damaged by certain agents and conditions. The most common causes of damage to pressure treated wood are exposure to UV rays from the sun, wet and dry rot, termites and other insects, fungi, and water damage from improperly sealed surfaces.
Exposure to sunlight can cause the wood to gray, splinter and crack, while fungi and termites can feed on the wood and cause decay and weakening of the structure. Dry rot is caused by exposure to moisture and oxygen, and can make the wood susceptible to cracking and crumbling.
Water damage can also lead to wood rot, loss of strength and overall degradation. To protect pressure treated wood from all of these factors, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, keep it free of dirt and debris, and make sure that it is properly sealed, stained or painted.
Is it OK to set deck posts in concrete?
Yes, it is generally okay to set deck posts in concrete. Doing so is a reliable way of anchoring posts securely in the ground. This is especially beneficial when a deck is going to be subjected to significant loads, such as with a multi-level deck, or when the deck will be used for activities like hot tubs or outdoor furniture.
When setting the deck posts in concrete, you need to make sure the holes are the appropriate size and properly reinforced. Digging out the holes for the post to around 12 inches in diameter and two feet deep should be sufficient for most installations.
Then, pour a mix of concrete into the holes, mixing in a reinforcement such as rebar or mesh if needed, to create a strong foundation for your posts. Make sure to also account for how level the surface of the concrete needs to be to ensure a level deck space.
Should you concrete treated posts?
It depends on what you are using the posts for. In general, posts that are used as part of a foundation should be concrete treated in order to make them more durable and better able to handle force and pressure.
This is especially true if you are building something near water or a naturally damp environment, as untreated posts can become warped or rotted over time. However, if you are simply installing a fence or support beams, concrete treating is usually not necessary.
The key is to make sure that the posts you use are rated for the job at hand and can hold up to the weather and other factors in your area.
