Wood preservative

Discussion in 'Off-Topic Discussion' started by Sheal, Mar 6, 2011.

  1. Sheal

    Sheal Total Gardener

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    Hi all,

    Does anyone know please whether wood preservative has a shelf life. I bought some two years ago for my fences that has never been opened and I wonder if it's still useable.
     
    Sheal, Mar 6, 2011
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  2. Dave W

    Dave W Total Gardener

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    I'd guess that given that it's supposed to preserve wood for several years when exposed to the elements, it should be perfectly fine if still in the container.
     
    Dave W, Mar 6, 2011
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  3. ARMANDII

    ARMANDII Low Flying Administrator Staff Member

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    Hi Sheal, both water based and oil base wood preservatives have an indefinite shelf, although teak oil can cloud over a period of time it's only due to oxidation and doesn't affect it's properties. I use creosote because my fences are substantial 4" x 2" horizontal 6' pieces laid on top of each to a height of 7' between concrete posts so I want long term effectiveness. Just don't put it in your tea!!
     
    ARMANDII, Mar 6, 2011
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  4. Loofah

    Loofah Admin Staff Member

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    It will absolutey fine, just give it a good stir first
     
    Loofah, Mar 7, 2011
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  5. Sheal

    Sheal Total Gardener

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    Thanks all, :thumbsup:

    Looks like I'll have to get the paint brush going then. That's a shame.

    Armandii, isn't creosote illegal now. Just a thought! Having said that, my brother swears by it for killing ivy. :WINK1:
     
    Sheal, Mar 8, 2011
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  6. ARMANDII

    ARMANDII Low Flying Administrator Staff Member

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    Hi Sheal, I've been buying creosote for years now. Some years ago the EU declared it unsafe etc and we bought cans of Creosote substitute [which looked and smelt the same}. Then two years ago "Creosote" appeared back on the market again and smelt and looked like the "Substitute". I haven't bought any this year as I've got plenty stored away for use so I don't know if they changed the name or liquid again. Whatever it is it has got over a third dearer in those 2 years!
     
    ARMANDII, Mar 8, 2011
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  7. Loofah

    Loofah Admin Staff Member

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    Cresote got banned and they created 'creocote'... which i thank also got removed. They're on to about the 3rd incarnation now and it comes in light or dark. Good stuff but doesn't have the exact right smell to me.
     
    Loofah, Mar 8, 2011
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