What can I use instead of creosote?

Category: science environment
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Our approved creosote substitute 'WOCO Creocote' is a spirit oil-based, effective treatment for exterior wood. It has been developed as a safer (for the user) alternative to original creosote. It is still designed to be used to protect wood against rotting fungi and wood destroying insects on external timbers.



Similarly, you may ask, can you paint over creosote substitute?

Painting over creosote is possible, but it takes a very special base paint and then many layers of a sealer-primer and even a couple coats of a finish paint to complete the job.

Similarly, can you still buy creosote? Traditional Creosote can only be sold to Professional Users. This means the traditional user such as the agricultural community, builders, etc. are still able to purchase Coal Tar Creosote, providing they do not resell to the general householder.

Additionally, is Creocote dangerous?

Creosote is harmful to plants if it comes into direct contact with them. The substance will also produce vapors in warm weather, and exposure to these vapors may damage plant leaves.

How long does creosote last?

60 years

31 Related Question Answers Found

Can I use old creosote?

Members of the public can continue to use creosote products that they have already bought until 30th June 2003, and should dispose of any empty containers in the domestic rubbish.

How do you encapsulate creosote?

How to Seal Creosote Treated Railroad Ties
  1. Purchase a polyurethane that is recommended for outdoor use to get the best results.
  2. Do not shake the can of polyurethane before opening.
  3. Use a thick paint brush to apply a generous coat of polyurethane to the creosote-treated railroad ties.
  4. Apply a second coat of polyurethane to the railroad ties.

Can I paint over wood stain?

To paint over a stain, lightly sand all glossy surfaces until the finish is dull, then wipe it down with a damp rag dipped in de-glosser. Allow time to dry. Then with even strokes, apply a quick-dry primer-sealer to prevent bleed-through. Allow the sealer to dry, and you're ready for your finish coat.

What is the best fence preservative?

Recommended water-based wood preservers for garden fences :-
  • Cuprinol Ultimate Garden Wood Preserver: A water-based, coloured wood preservative treatment for garden sheds, fence panels and other garden wood. Colours and protects exterior wood for up to 5 years.
  • Cuprinol Exterior Wood Preserver.

Can you paint old railroad ties?


Painting New Railroad Ties
A simple way to dress up new railroad ties (ones not treated with creosote) is through the use of paint. Clean the surface of the wood as best you can and allow it to dry thoroughly. Use a paint brush for a more crafty appeal, or a spray can for a smoother finish, and cover it in even coats.

Is Creocote oil based?

Creocote is a highly effect oil based timber treatment for the protection of external timber, penetrating deep into the wood. Barrettine Creocote is applied exactly the same as the original and has a similar smell which will be familiar to traditional Creosote users.

Is creosote banned?

The European Commission has banned the sale of creosote-treated wood after it was found that there could be a cancer risk. Scientists carrying out a study for the commission have found that creosote is much more hazardous than originally thought. The ban takes effect from June 30, 2003.

Can you stain over creosote?

Anyhow - assuming it is creosote - there isn't any real trick to coating it. Any linseed oil based exterior semi transparent stain will work as long as the surface has weathered to the point that it no longer feels "oily". Avoid using anything with alkyd or tung oil content.

Can I spray creosote?

The stuff you propose - creosote substitute - should actually preserve the timber as well as make it look nifty. If the timber is dry, it'll soak in beautifully too. Also, a sprayer makes a lot of sense as it's not only easier, but it gets the stuff into every nook and cranny that a brush simply won't.

Is Creocote safe for animals?


In the wet state harmful to animals and plants but once dry (48 hours) product is not considered unsafe. Splashes on leaves of plants will cause burns but long term systemic damage is unlikely.

What do you do with creosote?

Some creosote types were used historically as a treatment for components of seagoing and outdoor wood structures to prevent rot (e.g., bridgework and railroad ties, see image). Samples may be found commonly inside chimney flues, where the coal or wood burns under variable conditions, producing soot and tarry smoke.

Is Creocote carcinogenic?

Creocote is causing proplems for us chicken keepers,the original creosote killed redmite but was banned for none pro. use because it is carcinogenic. The replacement stuff is eco friendly,but not as good unless you mix it 3/1 with diesel.

How do you test for creosote?

There are no medical tests used specifically for determining creosote exposure. However, there are tests that can show if a person has been exposed to chemicals found in creosote and other products. The tests cannot tell whether the chemicals came from creosote or from other sources.

Is Creocote safe for dogs?

EVERBUILD® Creocote can be applied by brush, spray or dip methods. Ensure that all timbers are structur- ally sound, dry and free from surface growths. Care should be taken to protect valuable plants and foliage during application. Children and pets should be kept away from treated timber until they are completely dry.

How do you get rid of the smell of creosote?


  1. Sprinkle baking soda over the affected piece of furniture or carpet.
  2. Let the baking soda sit for at least two hours. The baking soda will absorb the creosote smell from the item.
  3. Vacuum up the baking soda. Repeat the process if the smell remains.

Is the smell of creosote harmful?

Are Creosote Fumes Harmful to Humans? Breathing the creosote fumes given off by creosote-treated wood can cause asthma and other respiratory ailments, as well as stomach pain and a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, according to researchers from the UCLA Labor Occupational Safety & Health Program.

Can you creosote a wet fence?

no. Most wood stains are oil-based and therefore will not bond well to a wet surface. If applied to wet woods, the stain will be thin and will eventually wash off after a few sizable rains.