Creocote
Approximate colour

Creocote

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Description

Creocote is a Creosote paint substitute, oil-based, dark brown wood treatment, which can be applied to all kinds of exterior wooden surfaces. As the treatment is oil-based, it is easy to apply and can sink into any timber surface.
Some of the most common timber features that are treated with high-quality creocote oil include:

  • Garden Sheds
  • Fences
  • Trellis Work.

Creocote like creosote provides excellent surface water repellence and can be used to restrict weather damage. The product improves grain definition, so it can actually improve the appearance of your wooden surfaces.

If youโ€™ve searched the word โ€˜Creosoteโ€™ in the last few years, you may have noticed a similar word mentioned a lot too. Itโ€™s not a typo, Creocote is a new, safe alternative to traditional Creosote paint. Theyโ€™re easily confused, so weโ€™ll explain the differences in detail, but the easiest way to remember is:

โ€˜2 Cโ€™s is good, C + S is badโ€™

Why is Creosote Paint Banned?

You heard right, Creosote paint is now illegal to purchase and use in the UK. It has been unavailable to the general public since it was withdrawn from retail stores in 2003. Even fence posts previously treated with Creosote paint are now banned from use on farms across Europe.
Similar to the crackdown on asbestos a few decades ago, Creosote paint is banned because of its potential health risks. Exposure to Creosote and other types of coal tar can be very harmful, as it is toxic to humans if consumed, breathed in, or if it makes contact with the skin. ย 

Creosote paint is also coal based, meaning it is made from fossilised plants and animals similar to petrol and other fossil fuels. This means that alongside the health risk, the production of Creosote paint was very harmful to the environment, so it was only a matter of time before a safer, more sustainable alternative was created.

What is Creocote?ย 

Creocote (with 2 Cโ€™s) is a much better alternative to Creosote paint. It is made more sustainably and has no potential health risks attached, making it safe for professionals and the public.ย 

Being oil-based, it is just as effective at preserving wood from the elements, whilst also helping preserve the planet too. As it was designed to do the job from the ground up, itโ€™s proven to protect wood for longer and improve the grain definition, meaning there is no reason to use traditional Creosote paint in your outdoor painting projects.ย 

Additional information

Weight N/A
Size

1L, 2.5L, 5L, 20L, 205L (Large Barrel)
Colour

Specification

Coverage
Approximately 8 square metres per litre.
Application
Apply liberally using brush, roller or spray.
Drying Time
Under normal circumstances the product should be touch dry within 6-8hrs if well ventilated and conditions are dry. Re-coat possible after 24 - 48hrs. Please note that drying times can different in cold and damp conditions. Applying the product in thin coats will allow a faster drying time and better finish.
Storage
Store away from naked flames. Secure lid on firmly between uses.
Surface Prep
Ensure timber is sound, dry and free from dirt. Sealed or painted timbers should be brought back to bare wood. Children and pets should be kept away until dry.
Thinners
White spirit can be used for thinning.

FAQ's

Is Creosote illegal?

Creosote was made illegal and unavailable to the general public in 2003 when is was withdrawn from retail stores. Although the use and purchase of creosote is illegal for the general public, approvals for professional and industrial use of creosote products were allowed to continue.

What is a good Creosote substitute?

Creocote (with 2 Cs) is a substitute for Creosote that is oil based to preserve wood from the elements, and proven to protect wood for longer. Unlike creosote, it has no potential health risks attached for the user or the environment,ย  and it is also made more sustainably.

What is Creocote used for?

Creocote is used for the same purpose as Creosote paint was before it was made illegal, as a wood preservative, waterproofing agent, and insect repellent. This makes it perfect for Fence panels, Sheds, and Trellis work. Creocote also enhances the grain definition therefore improving the appearance of these wooden structures.

What is the drying time for Creosote paint?

In dry conditions creosote paint should be touch dry in 6-8 hours, and ready for a re-coat after 24-48 hours. However these times are not for certain, it depends on the weather and conditions. Also applying thin coats of creosote paint ensures that it will dry quicker, and multiple thin coats of paint will create a better finish.

Why was Creosote made illegal?

Creosote paint is classed as highly toxic and causes soil and water contamination that is then ingested or absorbed by animals and plants. Not to mention the fact that it is is incredibly harmful to humans if breathed in, consumed or even if it touches your skin. Skin contact with Creosote paint can cause irritation, burning and rashes, and long term exposure to creosote has resulted in skin cancer.