Cedar has a reputation for durability, but unless a few guidelines are followed, cedar posts can fail in as few as five years . Three factors contribute to this early failure: poor drainage, low-quality wood and poor protection against insect damage.
How do you keep cedar posts from rotting?
Because water wicks up through the cut end grain of the post much more readily than it does through the sides of the post, either soak the end of the post in a preservative solution (copper naphthenate), or coat it with a waxy end sealer such as Anchorseal .
Are cedar posts rot resistant?
If not pre-treated, the posts will be more susceptible to rotting. Alternative options to pressure-treated lumber are: Western red cedar – naturally rot-resistant wood with a long lifespan.
Does cedar make a good fence post?
Cedar does not warp or shrink and is a naturally stable material perfect for picket and privacy fences. ... For fence posts, cedar can go several years without rotting ; however, they tend to be less durable against soil erosion than pressure treated pine posts.
Should you treat cedar posts?
Although cedar woods contain preservatives that are harmful to decay-causing fungi, they must be maintained. Special attention must be paid to outdoor posts , the weight-bearing portions of most decks and fences, to ensure they are properly weatherproofed.
How long will cedar last in ground?
In outdoor structures that are not in contact with the ground, such as decks, gazebos, pergolas and fence boards, cedar may last 30 years or longer . When in contact with the ground, such as when it's used for fence or support posts, it can last between 15 and 20 years.
What sealer is best for cedar?
- Pure Tung Oil Finisher for Cedar. ...
- General Finishes Exterior 450. ...
- Star Brite Golden Teak Oil Sealer for Cedar. ...
- Thompson's WaterSeal Advanced Cedar Protector. ...
- DEFY Crystal Clear Sealer for Cedar. ...
- SEAL-ONCE MARINE Cedar Wood Sealer. ...
- Olympic Stain 56500-04 Maximum Cedar Sealant.
How long will untreated cedar posts last?
Cedar has a reputation for durability, but unless a few guidelines are followed, cedar posts can fail in as few as five years . Three factors contribute to this early failure: poor drainage, low-quality wood and poor protection against insect damage.
How long will treated cedar last?
Longevity. Cedar decks last 15 to 20 years , compared to 10 to 15 years for pressure-treated wood.
How do I keep my wood post from rotting?
Using a post-hole digger instead of a shovel to create your anchor hole is more effective, as it makes the perfect size anchor point. From here, you should fill the hole with about 6 inches of gravel. This will prevent rotting by ensuring that the post is kept dry when water makes its way into the soil.
How long does it take for cedar to rot?
However, even with the proper maintenance, cedar will eventually succumb to fading—usually after about 10 years —and lose its natural tone for good.
How long will eastern red cedar posts last?
A 6′′ (small end) cedar post will last 20-30 years .
How long will a red cedar fence last?
It can last for decades, but the specific cedar fence lifespan is determined by a number of factors such as maintenance, weather elements, and usage. On average, the cedar fence lifespan ranges from 15-20 years before it'll be time to replace it, similar to the pressure-treated wood fence lifespan.
Does cedar need to be sealed?
Cedar offers a durable option for exterior and interior building projects with natural resistance to rot and decay, so a protective finish is optional. ... If you're using cedar for an outdoor project, give it a light seal coat to guard against moisture and sunlight.
How do you keep cedar looking natural?
- Stain Soon After Installation. Staining your cedar siding will considerably slow down the siding's change in appearance. ...
- Maintain Your Cedar Siding Every 3 to 5 Years. ...
- Embrace the Natural Weathering of Cedar Siding.
Will cedar wood rot in the ground?
Due to its chemical properties, cedar is naturally weather-resistant and repels most bugs. ... Don't put cedar where it's in direct contact with the ground or set it in concrete. It may last for a while, but eventually it will rot and deteriorate .
