On-Site Preservative Treatments for Exterior Wood of Buildings

This article deals with on-site preservative treatments and describes two parts in the experiments: lab tests to provide basic data on depths and treatment methods, and field trials of these treatments. Pentachlorophenol was the active preservative used in the tests. The penta was applied in two forms: in oil solution and in a grease-like medium (pentagrease). Five variables included: preservative composition, application of preservative, timing of application, kind of wood, and type of structure treated. Three kinds of oil carriers were used mineral spirits, kerosene, and No. 2 fuel oil. Three proprietary grease compounds and four penta concentrations were used 5, 10, 25, and 40 percent by weight. Two species of wood, southern pine and Douglas-fir, were used. Effectiveness of the various treatments were evaluated by bioassaying block samples. Two wood-rotting fungi were used, Poria monticola and Lenzites trabea. Although not substantiated by lengthy field tests, the laboratory tests reported here indicate considerable merit for the surface application of preservatives to wood by brushing, spraying, or a short period of soaking. The findings should have wide use in on-site treatments to protect wood structures.

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