What is the main goal of treating utility poles with remedial wood treatment?

The primary purpose of treating utility poles with remedial wood treatment is to increase the serviceable life of the pole. Utility poles are exposed to various environmental conditions, including moisture, insects, fungi, and other factors that can lead to deterioration. By applying a wood treatment, the poles are protected from these degrading elements, which helps to reinforce their structural integrity and extend their usability over time. This prolongation of service life ultimately results in reduced maintenance and replacement costs for utility companies, ensuring a reliable infrastructure for electricity and telecommunications.

While treating utility poles may also help in pest management, the complete elimination of wood pests is often not achievable or the primary focus, as various life stages and environmental factors may still impact pest presence. The aesthetic appearance of utility poles is generally not a concern in their treatment, particularly when considering functionality and safety over looks. Initial cost reduction may occur as a secondary effect of increasing serviceable life, but it is not the primary aim of the treatment process.