When it comes to utility poles, wood remains a popular choice as they are strong, affordable, and sustainable. They can also hold up electric power lines for a long period of time.
We have extensively discussed why wood is often chosen over its competitors here. You can read the comparison with other materials as well.
However, exposure to certain environmental factors such as rain, wind, and sun can put these poles at risk of damage, affecting their longevity and performance.
In this article, we’ll explore the impact of different weather conditions on wood utility poles and discuss what we can do to keep them strong and durable.
Common Weather Conditions Affecting Wood Utility Poles
- Rain and Humidity
Excessive moisture can rot wooden poles and make them weak, which can be a big safety hazard.
- Extreme Temperatures
During both scorching heat and freezing cold, wood can crack and split.
- Wind and Storms
High winds and severe storms can cause physical damage, such as breaking or uprooting poles.
- Snow and Ice
Heavy snow and ice can bend or break poles and make them rot faster by trapping moisture.
Consequences of Weather Damage
If you’ve ever seen a downed power line after a storm, you’d know it’s a big mess. Damaged poles cause outages, block roads, and can even be a significant hazard.
For example, in August 2017, Hurricane Harvey knocked down 5000 wooden poles leaving over 250,000 people without power for days.
Similarly, in September of the same year, Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico brought down the majority of their wooden poles, causing a blackout that lasted for weeks.
These number shows the seriousness of the situation and make a compelling case for looking into measures to protect these wooden utility poles.
Protective Measures for Wood Utility Poles
So, how can we shield wood utility poles against the hostile elements they face in outdoor settings? Here are some practical, effective tips to safeguard these structures.
- Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Routine inspections are super important. If done at least, once a year, especially after big storms, can help catch any cracks or rot early. That way, we can fix them before they become a bigger problem.
Key Inspection Points
- Base of the Pole: Check for signs of rot or fungal growth.
- Surface Cracks: Keep an eye out for cracks or splits, anything that might weaken the pole.
- Hardware: Check all bolts, nails, and hardware for tightness and rust.
- Protective Coatings
Coatings can protect wooden poles from moisture and pests. These treatments penetrate the wood and keep it healthy for a long time.
Types of Coatings
- Waterproof Sealants: Keeps the wood dry.
- Pesticides: Protect against insects
- UV Protection: Protects the wood from harmful ultraviolet rays.
- Use of Pole Wraps and Barriers
Pole wraps and barriers can be used to shield damaged areas and prevent future problems.
Benefits
- Moisture Barrier: Keeps the pole dry.
- Pest Deterrent: Prevents insects from boring into the wood.
- Impact Protection: Adds a layer of defense against physical damage.
- Proper Installation Techniques
Proper installation is the key. Putting poles in the ground the right way from the beginning helps prevent problems later.
Installation Tips
- Depth: Dig the hole deep enough for a good grip.
- Drainage: Make sure water can drain away from the base, so the surrounding area doesn’t get soggy.
- Orientation: Position the pole to avoid strong winds and harsh sunlight whenever possible.
- Climate-Specific Strategies
Different climates require different strategies. The best way to protect poles depends on where you live.
- Cold Climates
Wrap the poles to shield them from freezing and thawing. Or you can de-icing techniques to stop ice from building up.
- Hot Climates
Provide shade, like an umbrella, to keep the poles cool. Good air circulation helps too, so they don’t overheat.
In Summary…
Weather can be tough on wood utility poles. We’ve already established that. But the important thing is, with the right protective measures, these poles will stand strong for years to come.
To guarantee durability and performance regular checks, protective coatings, and location-specific measures must be adopted.
At Gulf South Forest Products, we offer high-quality wood utility poles. Contact us today to learn more and get a quote for your needs.
