Abstract: The method includes the step of applying a heat shrinkable plastics sleeve to at least that part of the object most vulnerable to decay. A meltable sealing solution, typically a bituminous substance, is provided between the heat shrinkable plastics sleeve and the object. The sleeve is heated so as to melt the sealing solution sufficiently for it to bond intimately to the wooden object and pressure is applied to the plastics sleeve. The sleeve may be extruded and the sealing solution may be applied to the internal surface of the sleeve as it is extruded. Pressure can be applied to the sleeve using pressure pads, which may be heated, or by a jet of hot air.

Abstract: A method in which a flexible outer barrier layer is applied to at least that part of the object most vulnerable to decay, a bituminous substance is provided between the outer barrier layer and the object, and the barrier layer is heated so as to melt the bituminous substance sufficiently for it to bond intimately to the wooden object. The barrier layer may be a heat shrinkable plastic film and may be a sleeve which is heat shrunk onto the object. The invention is particularly useful for protecting vulnerable parts of elongate wooden objects, such as fence posts or poles, from decay.