Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves are trusted by utility companies in over 30 countries worldwide. Our sleeves are used in a variety of applications to protect utility poles from rot and decay. To learn more about how and where they are used, read our case studies and user examples, which showcase the successful implementation of Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves across different regions and industries.
The section of the pole which sits below 550mm (22") in the ground is not protected by the Rot-Guard™ Sleeve because oxygen levels are low and the temperature is typically below 10°C. Nutrient levels are also very limited, making it difficult for rot to occur and decay-causing organisms to thrive.
The sleeves are designed to cover the critical ground-line section of the pole, as this is where rot and decay are most likely to occur. By protecting this area, the sleeves ensure the pole is shielded from moisture and decay, significantly extending its lifespan.
Yes, Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves are fully compatible with creosote-treated poles. The sleeves not only provide effective protection against rot but also help to lock in the creosote, supporting a reduction in leaching over time. This enhances the longevity of the preservative treatment, ensuring long-lasting durability and protection against rot.
Rot-Guard™ Sleeves are designed for long-term durability, backed by proven materials and extensive testing. The outer thermoplastic sleeve material has demonstrated a successful track record of over 50 years in severe ground contact barrier applications.
The inner meltable sealant is a highly developed, complex blend of over 20 specialised materials and additives that is engineered to create a strong, lasting seal to the pole surface. This sophisticated formula ensures the sleeve’s ability to protect the pole for decades, maintaining its effectiveness even in challenging environmental conditions.
With this combination of high-quality materials and advanced engineering, Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves are designed to provide reliable protection and a service life of 50 years or more.
Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves are a cost-effective solution that offers excellent value for the protection they provide. For an accurate quote tailored to your needs, please contact us directly, and we will be happy to prepare detailed pricing information.
Not at all. In a typical pole, water enters from the ground, increasing the moisture content of the wood to a level at which decay can start (>25%). When a Rot-Guard™ Sleeve is applied, it seals the critical ground-line surface of the pole, significantly lowering the entry point of moisture from the ground.
While moisture can still evaporate from the above-ground section, the moisture content in the upper sleeved part of the pole is kept much lower than in an unsleeved pole. This reduction in moisture helps prevent decay and rot, ensuring that the pole remains protected and durable for many years.
Yes, Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves have been shown to significantly reduce termite attacks. In an independent test, wooden blocks encapsulated with the sleeve material were not subject to termite attack. Termites are typically attracted to decaying wood, as it is easier for them to digest. By preventing decay, Rot-Guard™ Sleeves effectively reduce the likelihood of termite infestation in poles.
In addition to this, independent field testing of poles in service showed Rot-Guard™ Sleeves to be highly effective at inhibiting termite attack when compared to unprotected, treated poles.
However, for areas where termite activity is a major concern, we also offer Termi-Guard™, a product specifically developed and engineered to provide total protection against termites. Termi-Guard™ can be used in conjunction with Rot-Guard™ Sleeves for enhanced protection, offering a comprehensive solution against both decay and termite damage.
Read more about how Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves can help defend against termite attack
Based on independent test data, the use of Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves on treated wooden poles can significantly extend the service life of the pole, with expectations of 50 years or more. The sleeves provide superior protection against decay, ensuring long-term durability and reducing the need for frequent replacements. This makes Polesaver Rot-Guard™s a highly effective solution for maximising the lifespan of treated wooden poles. Test data is available on request.
Polesaver Rot-Guard™s are available in a range of sizes to fit all size poles. The product is designed to protect poles with base diameters ranging from 20cm/7.9" up to 60cm/23.6", ensuring comprehensive ground-line protection for all poles. Specifically, Polesaver offers nine different sleeve sizes to accommodate differing infrastructure needs, ensuring a perfect fit for a wide range of applications in the power and telecom industries.
No, Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves cannot be retrospectively fitted to poles that are already in service. These sleeves are designed as a preventative measure for new wood poles, providing long-term protection against rot and decay before the pole is installed in the ground.
To ensure maximum effectiveness, sleeves should be applied to preservative-treated poles prior to installation. Once the pole is in the ground and in use, it is no longer feasible to apply the sleeves without disrupting the pole’s integrity and performance.
As an ISO 9001 registered manufacturer, we adhere to stringent quality control procedures during the production of Rot-Guard™ Sleeves. Sleeves are rigorously inspected against a comprehensive set of quality standards, including size, weight, film thickness, softening point, shrink ratios, and print quality. This ensures that every sleeve meets our high standards for performance and durability.
Yes, Rot-Guard™ Sleeves are compatible with all commonly used wood preservatives, including Pentachlorophenol, Creosote, CCA, and water-based copper formulations, among others. This ensures that you can use our sleeves alongside your preferred preservative treatments without any issues, offering optimal protection for your poles.
There are two main reasons why coatings are not a viable alternative to Rot-Guard™ Sleeves:
In contrast, the outer layer of the Rot-Guard™ Sleeves are designed to bridge cracks of up to 25mm, preventing decaying organisms from reaching the core of the pole. This ensures long-term protection, maximising pole life. Independent test data shows that life extension from liquid coatings on poles is effectively zero (independent test data is available to substantiate this).
Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves provide superior, long-lasting protection for wood poles.
No, it is important to continue using preservatives to protect the wood both below ground and in the above-ground section. Using a Rot-Guard™ Sleeve in conjunction with an effective preservative ensures comprehensive protection and maximises the overall lifespan of the pole. In addition, the sleeve locks in the preservative and protects the area of the pole most prone to leaching so can significantly reduce ground contamination.
The combination of a Rot-Guard™ Sleeve applied with a preservative offers the best defence against decay and environmental factors.
No, the sleeves are non-toxic and do not require any special approvals, certifications, or import licenses for use. They are fully compliant with safety standards, making them easy to implement without the need for additional regulatory requirements.
Under normal conditions, the above-ground section of the sleeve has a service life of over 40 years. The film is UV-stabilised and highly resistant to weathering, ensuring long-lasting protection even when exposed to the elements. This durability makes it an excellent choice for long-term pole preservation.
If cracks form the moisture content in the upper part of the sleeved section of the pole is normally below the 20% level necessary for decay and rot to occur, so decay does not occur.
Yes, the sleeve is flammable; however, its ignition temperature is very high. When used properly and with appropriate precautions, the risk of ignition during application is minimal. Always follow safety guidelines to ensure safe handling and application.
The sleeve should extend above ground level by a minimum of 10 cm (4") and a maximum of 20 cm (8"), with a recommended average of 15 cm (6"). This range is sufficient to accommodate most variations in burial depth.
To ensure accurate application, the sleeves feature a ground-level line which is printed on the outer layer, this serves as a convenient guide during installation. Following this guideline ensures proper protection.
Applying a sleeve to a pole typically takes just two minutes when using a blowtorch. This quick and efficient process ensures minimal disruption while providing durable protection for the pole. For high-volume applications, specialised equipment can further speed up the process.
Yes, Rot-Guard™ Sleeves can be easily applied to poles with an elephant foot or enlarged base. The sleeve is tightly wrapped around the ground-line section of the pole and secured using the pre-applied tape strip. Once secured, it can be heat-shrunk in place using a blowtorch or an application machine, just like with standard poles.
This straightforward process ensures that even poles with irregular bases are effectively protected.
Yes, it’s important to prepare the pole surface to ensure proper application and avoid damage to the sleeve. Any splinters or tears on the part of the pole to be sleeved should be removed, as these could puncture the sleeve during the shrinking process.
We recommend using a surform tool for this preparation, which we can supply as part of your equipment needs. The pole surface should be dry or slightly damp to the touch. If wet or very damp, flash-dry the area to be sleeved prior to application. Proper preparation ensures a smooth application and optimal performance of the sleeve.
We offer a range of equipment to suit different application needs:
This variety of tools ensures that you have the right equipment for any application scenario, whether in the field or at a production facility.
The blowtorch is powered by propane, which provides reliable performance for applying Rot-Guard™ Sleeves. While a propane/butane mix can also be used, it may occasionally cause issues with lighting. For best results, we recommend using pure propane to ensure smooth and consistent operation.
Yes, we offer specialised machinery for high-volume applications to streamline the process and increase efficiency.
For large-scale operations, we can provide a rail-mounted application machine designed for fast and precise sleeve application. Additionally, for smaller poles, we can supply a high-throughput conveyor feed machine capable of sleeving up to 150 poles per hour. These solutions are ideal for pole producers and utility companies looking to maximise productivity while maintaining consistent application quality.
If you'd like more information about these machines or assistance in selecting the right option for your needs, please get in touch.
The cost of the gas required to apply a Rot-Guard™ Sleeve is typically around £0.08 per sleeve. This low cost is based on the minimal amount of gas needed for proper application. Polesaver Rot-Guard™s are designed to be quick and efficient to apply, ensuring that the process remains cost-effective while delivering long-lasting protection for your poles.
If you’d like further details on application techniques, visit our Knowledge Base.
Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves are highly durable, thanks to their dual-layer construction. Even if the outer sleeve is damaged, the inner bituminous liner maintains a secure seal on the pole surface, ensuring continued protection.
Based on our experience with utilities and pole producers, issues are rare when poles are handled sensibly (e.g. avoiding dragging them off lorries or gripping the sleeves with mechanical grabs). For added assurance, we offer patch tape to repair any minor damage, although very little of this has been needed to date.
We tested the durability of our Rot-Guard™ Sleeves, see the results...
For situations where sleeves are applied at the yard and transported to the site via lorry, we recommend Polesaver Plus, which includes an extra layer of protection for enhanced durability.
Polesaver Rot-Guard™ Sleeves can be stored and handled within a temperature range of -10°C to 40°C.
It is essential to avoid storing the sleeves in direct sunlight. Additionally, we recommend applying them to poles in shaded conditions, out of direct sunlight, to ensure a perfect application.
Termi-Guard™ is a high-quality protective sock manufactured from marine-grade stainless steel mesh designed to shield wooden poles from subterranean termite damage. Its fine mesh construction creates a physical barrier, preventing termites from accessing the wood. Engineered for durability, it provides long-lasting protection and is ideal for regions with high termite activity, helping maintain the integrity of vital infrastructure over time.
Termi-Guard™'s fine stainless steel mesh creates an impenetrable physical barrier that termites cannot chew through or bypass. Its design prevents termites from entering the wooden pole, effectively safeguarding it against infestation. Combined with its corrosion-resistant properties, the barrier remains durable and effective over decades, making it an ideal solution for preventing termite damage in vulnerable environments.
Termi-Guard™ is made from 316 marine-grade stainless steel, which is considered the gold standard for corrosion resistance and durability. This alloy contains molybdenum, which enhances its ability to resist corrosion, especially in harsh environments. Its superior strength and resistance to wear make it an ideal material for creating an impenetrable barrier against subterranean termite attack, ensuring decades of effective protection for poles.
Termi-Guard™ is designed to fit utility poles up to 35 cm (14 inches) in diameter, which covers around 90% of commonly used poles. Its flexible design ensures that it can be securely applied to poles of varying sizes. For poles outside this range, custom sizes are available upon request, ensuring that specific needs can be met effectively, offering tailored protection for any pole size.
Yes, Termi-Guard™ is quick and simple to install. It slides easily onto the pole and is securely fastened with a circular clip, making it suitable for most pole sizes. This straightforward process allows for an easy on-site installation during pole setup, providing reliable protection against subterranean termites without requiring complex tools or additional support.
Yes, Termi-Guard™ can be removed and reused if the utility pole is relocated, provided it remains in good condition. Its durable stainless steel construction ensures it retains its integrity during removal and reinstallation, making it a practical and cost-effective solution for poles that may need to be repositioned or replaced.
Termi-Guard™ is built to provide decades of protection against termite damage. Manufactured from high-quality, corrosion-resistant stainless steel, it is designed to withstand environmental wear, ensuring long-term durability and effectiveness in protecting poles from termite infestation.
Yes, Termi-Guard™ is made from environmentally safe materials and does not release harmful contaminants into the soil, making it a responsible choice for ground-contact use. Its design ensures that it helps protect both the pole and the surrounding environment.
Termi-Guard™ is trusted by infrastructure providers to protect wooden poles from termite damage. It is designed to ensure the integrity and longevity of wooden poles in regions where termites are a significant threat, providing a reliable solution for safeguarding critical infrastructure.
For pricing details, please contact Polesaver directly for a personalised quote. Discounts may be available for large orders. Contact us for more information.
When protecting against subterranean termites, Termi-Guard™'s physical barrier offers a more reliable and sustainable solution compared to chemical treatments. Termi-Guard™’s stainless steel mesh creates an impenetrable, non-toxic barrier that doesn’t degrade over time or require reapplication. In contrast, chemical barriers rely on termiticides that can leach into the soil, need regular maintenance, and may lose effectiveness as they degrade. With Termi-Guard™, utility providers benefit from a one-time, eco-friendly installation that provides decades of protection, making it the superior choice for long-term termite prevention.
Termi-Guard™ is specifically designed to address subterranean termite threats by forming a robust barrier that termites cannot penetrate. While it provides excellent protection against termites, it is not intended to protect wood from other forms of damage, such as fungal decay or weathering. For comprehensive pole protection, Termi-Guard™ can be combined with other products like preservative treatments and Polesaver Rot-Guard™ sleeves, which address additional threats such as decay and moisture-related damage.
Subterranean termites thrive in warm, humid regions, including tropical and subtropical climates. They are particularly common in areas like Southeast Asia, Africa, South America, and parts of the southern United States, where moisture and warmth create ideal conditions for their colonies. These termites build underground nests and require access to both soil and wood, making environments with high humidity, poor drainage, or frequent rain especially favourable for their survival and growth.
Yes, utility poles can be particularly prone to termite attack, especially in regions with high moisture and warmth. Termites are attracted to the wood, particularly when it is in contact with the ground, as it provides both moisture and a food source. Subterranean termites are a major concern for wooden utility poles as they can cause significant damage over time, weakening the structure and potentially leading to pole failure.
Blaze-Guard™ is a fire-resistant fabric designed to protect vital infrastructure, including utility poles, from the devastating effects of fire. Its primary function is to shield wooden poles from intense heat and flames, preventing ignition and ensuring the long-term stability of infrastructure in areas prone to wildfires. By providing a protective barrier, Blaze-Guard™ helps maintain the integrity of critical assets, including communication and energy transmission networks, in fire-prone regions, ensuring these essential services remain operational and safe during wildfire events.
Blaze-Guard™ works by forming a robust thermal barrier that insulates wooden utility poles from extreme heat and flames during wildfires. The fire-resistant fabric slows heat transfer to the pole, reducing the risk of ignition and preventing combustion. This protection is particularly critical for poles treated with copper-based preservatives like CCA, which can sustain smoldering due to copper oxides. By minimising oxygen and airflow exposure, Blaze-Guard™ limits smoldering and glow combustion, preserving structural integrity, preventing costly failures, and safeguarding critical infrastructure in fire-prone environments.
Blaze-Guard™ is a fire fabric which is constructed from advanced fire-resistant properties, blending high-performance materials that provide exceptional heat resistance and durability. These fabrics are engineered to endure extreme temperatures, limiting heat transfer and preventing ignition. Blaze-Guard™ is highly UV stable and weatherproof, ensuring effective, long-term protection in harsh outdoor conditions. Its robust construction makes it ideal for safeguarding wooden utility poles and critical infrastructure in fire-prone regions, maintaining their integrity and reducing the risk of fire damage over time.
Blaze-Guard™ is designed for long-term durability, offering effective protection for decades under normal conditions. Its tough and weatherproof construction ensures that it withstands environmental challenges, including UV exposure and multiple fire events, without requiring replacement. By minimising the risk of fire damage, Blaze-Guard™ significantly extends the lifespan of wooden poles, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs or replacements. While its exact longevity depends on environmental factors, Blaze-Guard™ is designed to last for 40 years and to endure multiple fires, protecting infrastructure and ensuring service reliability when it's needed most in fire-prone areas.
Blaze-Guard™ is designed for straightforward installation in any location, ensuring minimal disruption to operations. The process involves the following steps:
For enhanced fire protection, more of the pole can be protected by repeating the wrapping and stapling process at higher positions on the pole. Polesaver can supply the necessary staplers and hammer staplers to facilitate the installation.
More information and a video tutorial can be found here
Blaze-Guard™ undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it meets high fire-resistant standards and provides effective protection under typical fire conditions. It has been evaluated in real-world field conditions, with independent reports available that compare Blaze-Guard™’s performance against alternative fire protection systems. These studies, including a full-scale field trial involving over 1,000 poles, have proven Blaze-Guard™'s ability to extend the life of utility poles in fire-prone areas. These independent reports for detailed insights into Blaze-Guard™'s performance and effectiveness in protecting critical infrastructure from fire damage are available on request.
Blaze-Guard™ is a cost-effective way to protect vital infrastructure against the devastating effects of wildfires and to ensure networks remain operational at these critical times. Application is quick and easy when compared to other systems, offering significant cost and time savings.
Polesaver provides personalised quotes tailored to your specific requirements. Discounts may be available for large orders, please get in touch for pricing.
Yes, Blaze-Guard™ can be effectively applied to poles that are already in the ground. The fire-resistant fabric easily wraps around the pole and provides immediate protection against heat and flames. Installation can be done without the need for major disruptions or pole removal, allowing infrastructure providers to enhance fire protection on existing poles in fire-prone areas. This flexibility makes Blaze-Guard™ an ideal solution for upgrading the fire protection of poles already in service, without requiring costly replacements or extensive downtime.
Blaze-Guard™ is already used and trusted globally by those supporting critical infrastructure in fire-prone regions.
