Kerfing to Prevent Decay of Douglas-Fir Poles: An Update

The ability of kerfing to limit the development of deep checks and minimize fungal decay was evaluated on pressure-treated Douglas-fir electric transmission poles. After 18 to 19 years of service, incidence of decay was markedly lower in kerfed than in non-kerfed poles. This result can be attributed to the decreased development of deep checks that penetrate past the preservative-treated zone. Kerfing appears to be a valuable tool for minimizing the development of checks and limiting the entry of decay fungi.

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