southern yellow pine; courtesy of bwpole.com
When your construction project requires the use of poles, you have a choice between wood and steel. You may also consider using concrete poles. Among these choices, wood poles have notable benefits. Pressure treated wood poles, for example, are resistant to the elements. The longer they do not begin to crumble, corrode or oxidate, they less often they will need to be replaced. In the long run, this saves time and costs.
Here are three benefits of using wood poles.
Properties of Wood
The properties of wood allow it to be better suited for a variety of outdoor projects. Since wood has insulation attributes, it is safer to use than steel and concrete. Wooden poles are less likely to be affected by lightning and they cause less electrical breakdowns. Wooden poles that are coated can actually withstand exposure to fires. Steel poles exposed to fire can char, and then, experience corrosion. Poles made of wood also require less attachments and accessories, plus they are easier to climb. When attaching cables, simply use screws and bolts. They also do not need to earthed because they do not conduct electricity.
Weight
Wood weighs less than steel and concrete. This makes the transportation of wood simpler and faster. If wood is ever bumped or scratched during transportation or while being elevated, it can withstand the impact. Wood also takes up less space so you can maximize your storage area. When it needs to moved or lifted into place, wood requires less heavy equipment and less labor. Once a pole has been set in its hole, re-cover the hole with dirt. Steel poles, on the other hand, require cement filling in addition to dirt. Since wood has a higher working load, fewer wooden poles are necessary per project. This adds to your project’s potential savings.
Environmentally-Friendly
Wood is more environmentally-friendly than other materials. When exposed to average conditions, wooden poles can have a lifespan of up to 80 years. Poles exposed to extreme heat or extreme cold will still last up to 40 years. Since they do not have to be replaced often, they create less waste. When a wooden pole has reached its life, it can be reused in other projects.
A pole’s material matters. The properties, weight and environmental-friendliness of wooden poles are three reasons why they are a better choice over steel and concrete poles.