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Creosote Treatment

Creosote is a term for a variety of products with tar-like properties. Oil extracted from the creosote bush, coal tar and pitch are all referred to as creosote. Creosote is resilient to water and aging and is commonly used to prevent rust and keep wood from rotting. Creosote is commonly applied to wooden posts and poles.

  1. Wood Preservative

    • Creosote can help prevent termite damage.

      Creosote is a heavy oil or tar and can help prevent wood from rotting. Creosote behaves as a fungicide, insecticide and sporicide. Creosote also waterproofs wood and is used both above and below ground.

    Application

    • Creasote is used for sealing roofs.

      Creosote is usually heated to liquefy it before application. It is applied with a heavy paint brush and allowed to dry. Two coats are commonly applied. Non-commercial distribution of creosote products has been restricted by the EPA and for all practical purposes creosote is only used industrially. Most of its use is in pressure-treating railroad ties and utility poles.

    Restricted Uses

    • Creasote should not be used on wood that people will contact.

      Creosote should not be used on the interior of buildings. Its use is banned in toys, in playgrounds or parks and in the manufacturing of garden furniture. It should not be used for plant containers or packaging that might come in contact with materials destined for human or animal consumption. It should not be used for packaging that will contain materials for subsequent manufacture of other items.

    Environmental Impact

    • Creasote can leach into groundwater supplies.

      Creosotes are complex mixtures of chemicals and some components may dissolve into groundwater and cause contamination. Water-insoluble components of creosote can accumulate in plants and animals. This effect is known as bioaccummulation or biomagnification.

    Considerations

    • Contact with creosote can be harmful to humans. In addition to causing irritation, long-term exposure may lead to skin cancer. Components of creosotes may slowly vaporize and pose an inhalation hazard, particularly in enclosed areas such as buildings treated with creosote. Creosote vapors may cause damage to the corneas and cause respiratory tract irritation. Prolonged exposure can cause kidney and liver diseases.

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