Pressure-Treated vs Dip-Treated Wood: What’s the Difference?
When choosing fencing or garden structures, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to use pressure-treated or dip-treated wood. Both offer protection against rot and decay, but the way they are treated—and the protection they provide—differs significantly. Understanding these differences helps homeowners make the best choice for durability, value, and long-term peace of mind.
What Is Dip-Treated Wood?
Dip treatment is the more traditional method of protecting timber. During this process, the wood is dipped into a tank of preservative, coating only the surface. While this does give it a basic level of protection, it’s largely a surface-level barrier. Over time, rain, sun exposure, and natural wear can break down the protective layer.
Dip-treated fences usually require regular maintenance, such as yearly re-coating, to stay protected. They tend to be more affordable upfront but may cost more over the life of the product due to ongoing treatment needs and potentially shorter lifespans.
Dip-treated wood often has an orange or red tone because of the colourant added to the preservative. This is helpful for identifying coverage but doesn’t enhance durability.
What Is Pressure-Treated Wood?
Pressure treatment is a more advanced and long-lasting method. Instead of applying the preservative to the surface, the wood is placed in a vacuum cylinder where air is removed from the timber. Preservative is then forced deep into the fibres under high pressure.
This means the protection becomes part of the wood itself—not just a coating. As a result, pressure-treated timber offers far superior resistance to rot, fungal attack, and moisture. It requires far less maintenance, making it a cost-effective, long-term investment.
Because the preservative penetrates deeply, pressure-treated panels generally last many years longer than dip-treated ones, even without frequent retreatment.
Which Option Is Better for Fencing?
For most homeowners, especially in the UK’s wet climate, pressure treatment is the clear winner. It delivers stronger, longer-lasting protection and ensures your fence remains sturdy and attractive for years. While dip-treated panels may be cheaper at first, they can end up costing more due to shorter lifespan and higher maintenance.
Liverpool One Fencing: The Best Pressure-Treated Panels in the Area
At Liverpool One Fencing, we specialise in heavy-duty pressure-treated feather edge fence panels designed for maximum strength and longevity. As a family-run business with 20 years of experience, we understand exactly what Liverpool homes need—durability, value, and workmanship you can trust.
We proudly cover all of Liverpool and every surrounding area, offering a complete service that includes dismantling and removal of your old fence. Best of all, we require no deposit, giving customers complete confidence from start to finish.
With 5-star reviews and a friendly, reliable team, Liverpool One Fencing is the go-to choice for homeowners who want fencing that stands the test of time.
- We cover all areas such as
- Kirkby
- Maghull
- Walton
- Aintree
- Netherton
- Litherland
- Crosby
- Formby
- ormskirk
- Fazakerly
- old Roan
- Melling
- North Liverpool
- South Liverpo
- Skelmersdale
- Whiston
- Huyton
- Aughton Town Green
- Southport
0151-287-3610 or hit our whats app button and let us do the rest. We have a family run family team here at Liverpool One Fencing. We pride ourselves on our customer service. Get in touch today for your free quote.
