Homestead mailing list

[Gene GeRue <genegerue AT ruralize.com>]

On Nov 1, 2007, at 2:22 PM, Don Bowen KI6DIU wrote:

> Here is what most of the responses have told me along with some
> research.  These ideas are based on using timber from the site.  If
> purchased timber is used, just buy the latest PT stuff and be sure  
> to seal
> it off.

Be aware that the new ACQ preservatives--there are at least three  
versions--require corrosion-proof fasteners, typically good stainless  
steel or hot-dipped galvanized.
> As for the pole, species if very important.  Locust and Ceder are  
> often
> mentioned as long lasting poles.  From personal experience Locust  
> fence
> posts out last just about everything but Osage Orange but are much
> straighter.

Here in this part of the Ozarks, post oak is also favored for fence  
posts. We have locust but not substantial amounts. I have used cedar  
and in five years found all the sapwood gone but the skinny, spiny  
heart intact.

> Chemical treatments, used motor oil, and tar were frequently
> mentioned.  Charing the pole was also mentioned several times.  Be  
> sure the
> pole is completely air dried before use so any checks can be delt
> with.  One idea was to bore a hole in the base to speed drying, reduce
> checks, and allow penetration of what ever preservative used.

Other preservatives are creosote, used in railroad ties, and penta,  
with which power poles are treated. These are more expensive.
> If the ground does not drain well, don't bother with poles set in the
> ground but use a form and make a cast in place concrete pier.  They  
> can be
> stopped at grade and steel anchors used to secure the poles.

This raises the issue of personal philosophy. Builders and  
contractors typically build a structure according to code, which  
means the building will stand through one or two mortgages. We  
individuals building for our own use typically strive to make a  
structure that will last as long as we expect to use it and sell it  
or maybe long enough for our children to use it. Concrete is  
expensive; it contains a fair amount embedded energy in the cement  
and it must be installed in good forms with the right mix ratio and  
the drainage that Don wrote about. Perfect drainage and strong,  
reinforced concrete can create the bottom of a building that will  
last centuries.

It's a choice.