Description
Bird Brand Creoshield Timber Treatment
The look of old-fashioned creosote, without the smell or the hassle of a banned product. Creoshield is a ready-to-use, solvent-based timber treatment for fences, sheds, barns and outbuildings — the one we recommend to customers who miss the traditional creosote finish but want something modern, safer and easier to apply.
Creosote was banned for DIY use back in 2003, and a lot of customers have never quite found a replacement that matches the finish. Creoshield is Bird Brand’s answer — a solvent-based treatment that soaks into the timber grain and dries to that same dark, rich, weathered look, but with a wax additive built in to repel rainwater through the first year and a noticeably lower odour than the old stuff. It goes on ready to use straight from the tin, no thinning or mixing needed, and it’s suited to both rough-sawn and smooth timber — fence panels, sheds, gates, stables, barns, and general agricultural buildings.
Key features
Creosote-style finish, modern formula — Delivers the same dark, traditional colour people associate with creosote, without using creosote itself.
Wax-enriched, water-repellent — A built-in wax additive helps the treated timber shed rainwater for roughly the first 12 months after application.
Deep penetration — Soaks into the wood grain rather than sitting on the surface, so the timber is protected from within, not just coated.
Lower odour than traditional creosote — Still has a recognisable smell, but it’s noticeably reduced compared to the original product, making it more practical to use near the house or in enclosed spaces like stables.
Ready to use — No mixing, no thinning — open the tin and apply by brush or sprayer.
Choice of shades — Available in Light, Dark and Black, so you can match or contrast with existing timber and fencing.
Specification
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Solvent-based, ready-to-use timber treatment |
| Finish | Creosote-style, matt |
| Available shades | Light, Dark, Black |
| Sizes | 4 litre, 20 litre |
| Coverage | Approx. 3–5m² per litre (varies with timber type and porosity) |
| Water resistance | Wax-enriched, repels rainwater for approx. 1 year |
| Application method | Brush or low-pressure sprayer |
| Suitable surfaces | Rough-sawn and smooth exterior timber |
| Typical uses | Fences, sheds, gates, stables, barns, agricultural buildings |
| Use | Exterior only |
| HSE registration | Not required for this product type |
How to apply
- Make sure the timber is clean, dry, and free of dirt, moss, algae or old flaking coatings.
- Stir well before use — do not dilute.
- Apply liberally by brush or sprayer, working with the grain.
- Allow to penetrate and dry fully before a second coat if needed, and before the timber is exposed to rain.
FAQs
Is Creoshield the same as creosote? No — creosote was banned for DIY/retail sale in 2003. Creoshield is a modern solvent-based alternative designed to recreate the same dark, traditional finish and similar level of weather protection, without using creosote itself.
Does Creoshield smell as strong as creosote? It has a recognisable, characteristic odour but it’s reduced compared to traditional creosote, making it more manageable to use, especially in enclosed areas like stables or sheds.
How much coverage do I get per litre? Roughly 3–5m² per litre, though this varies depending on how porous and rough the timber is — new, rough-sawn wood will drink up more than smooth, previously treated timber.
Can I use Creoshield on smooth timber, not just rough-sawn? Yes, it’s suitable for both rough-sawn and smooth exterior timber.
How long before I need to reapply? The wax additive is designed to repel rainwater for around the first year; after that, timber will benefit from reapplication depending on weather exposure and how the finish is holding up.
What’s the difference between Creoshield and Bird Brand’s Creocote? Creocote is Bird Brand’s oil-based creosote substitute with a stronger, more traditional smell; Creoshield is the newer solvent-based formula with a lower odour and added wax for water repellency. Both give a similar dark, traditional finish — Creoshield is the better choice if odour is a concern.
Is Creoshield an HSE-approved wood preserver? Creoshield is marketed as a timber treatment rather than an HSE-registered preservative. If you specifically need a registered wood preservative for fungal and insect protection, ask us about Bird Brand Ecosote instead.
For water based please visit Bird Brand Ecosote Wood Preserver 4L and 20L
Recommended Uses
Agricultural fencing
Garden sheds and summerhouses
Wooden barns and stables
Timber gates and railings
Railway sleepers (decorative use)
Other exterior wooden surfaces requiring high durability and a rustic appearance
Application Instructions
Surface Preparation: Ensure the timber is clean, dry, and free from dust, dirt, and previous coatings that may impede absorption.
Stir Thoroughly: Mix well before and during application for consistent finish and performance.
Application: Apply evenly using a brush or roller. A second coat can be applied for deeper protection and richer colour, once the first has dried.
Drying: Allow at least 6–12 hours between coats and up to 48 hours before exposure to rain or heavy use.
Clean-Up: Clean brushes and equipment with white spirit or an appropriate solvent.
Safety & Environmental Information
Not suitable for use on internal timber or wood that will be in contact with humans, animals, or foodstuffs.
Always wear protective gloves and clothing during application.
Ensure adequate ventilation when applying in enclosed spaces.
Conforms to relevant safety and environmental standards.
