Cedar Post: Does Any Product Really Work to Retard Rot?

[frank1492]

I have a specially turned cedar lamp post that I would like to preserve from rot as best possible. I have looked at various products but, based on the viscosity of the liquid and the fact that they seem to be water-based, I don't have much confidence in them. Is there any product that really works?? Thanks. Frank

[JoeSpareBedroom]

I have cedar posts that have been in use in the garden for 15 years. I treated them with Green Cuprinol:

The posts show no signs of trouble so far.

[Phisherman]

Seal the end with tar. Roofing tar should work OK. Dig the hole 1 foot deeper and have the post rest on top of gravel. The post should last 15 years or perhaps many more. My mailbox post is going on its

17th year.

[frank1492]

Thanks to all. I have a gallon of Behr Post Protector (similar to the Cuprinol) home but will consider the tar idea which makes a lot of sense also. (Why not apply the roofing tar up the sides of the post as well?) Thanks again! Frank P.S. At Home Depot, is that called Roof Sealer?

[BobK207]

Frank-

How about a metal post base where the wood is slightly ~2" above the dirt?

cheers Bob

[Chris Lewis]

According to frank1492 :

Caution: coating the bottom of the post with tar will prevent the bottom of the post drying out, and will accelerate rot. This only works with pressure-applied anti-rot that leaves the bottom of the post still able to drain.

You want the bottom of the post being able to dry. That means using materials that _don't_ seal the wood below grade, and parking the very bottom of the post in something that drains well. Like gravel.

[frank1492]

Thanks. I have gone with Behr Post Preservative (Similar to Cuprinol) and will dump some pea stones in the hole before I set the post. How's that for a compromise??? Frank