The Goods on Wood Post Treatments

Aug 26, 2019


Wood posts are a practical and economic solution for fencing projects. With their durability and resistance to bending, these posts will last for many years to come.
 
Today’s wood posts are treated with preservatives to help their longevity. When selecting posts for your particular project, here are three popular wood treatments offered through Co-op:
 
  1. CCA (chromated copper arsenate) — an EPA-registered pesticide containing inorganic arsenic to protect wood against termites, fungi, and other pests. The inorganic arsenic is injected into the wood itself and is intended to remain there. CCA has a well-proven history of providing consistent long life to preserved wood products. Not for residential use.
  2. MCA (micronized copper azole) — a copper-based preservative acceptable for farm or residential use, MCA has a lighter, more natural appearance. Azole offers carbon-based protection against copper-tolerant fungi. MCA-treated wood is long lasting, odorless, and has a clean appearance.
  3. Creosote — used as a wood preservative since the mid-1800s, creosote is derived from the high-temperature distillation of coal tar. Currently, creosote is used for commercial purposes only; it has no registered residential uses. Wood treated with creosote should not be used in the interiors of farm buildings since it could be in direct contact with animals or livestock which may bite or lick the wood.
 
For help with selecting the right treated wood for your farm/home project, visit the professionals at your local Co-op.
 
 
 

Read More News

Mar 30, 2026
As the seasons change, so do our management practices for equine ownership. Here are a few considerations that are important for horse owners this spring.
Mar 23, 2026
March is a pivotal time for bringing home lawns out of winter dormancy, with an emphasis on weed prevention, soil health, and careful early-season care. Taking the right steps now helps ensure strong, healthy growth heading into summer.
Mar 16, 2026
Visit your local Co-op to purchase your vegetable, flower, and herb seeds! You can get a head start on planting by placing a grow light in one room of your house and starting flats of seeds for your garden. Start collecting pots and planters to use in a container garden for the front porch.