How Good Is Pressure-Treated Fencing?

Study

• A study of pressure-treated and untreated wood fence posts by the College of Forestry at Oregon State University found that pressure-treated wood lasted significantly longer than untreated wood. The study showed that the untreated wood of nondurable species lasted an average of four to six years, while treated wood lasted about 40 to 50 years.

Expert Insight

• Always purchase pressure-treated wood from a reputable dealer, advises Penn State University. This helps ensure that the pressure-treatment was done according to industry standards and that the wood will last for a long time.

Expense

• Pressure-treated wood costs more than untreated wood. However, experts, such as those at Oregon State and Penn State, agree that pressure-treated wood is an excellent product for fencing and that the results justify the increased expense.