Choosing the Right Post Foundation System: Solid Treated vs. 3‑Ply Bottom Posts vs. Green Post Wrapped vs. Perma‑Column®

Presented by Country Building Co – Shiloh, Ohio

Proudly sourcing high‑quality materials from Richland Laminated Columns

When planning a post‑frame building—whether a barn, shop, garage, or ag structure—the foundation system you choose plays a major role in its long‑term strength and durability. At Country Building Co, we partner with Richland Laminated Columns to ensure our customers receive structurally‑superior posts designed to stand the test of time.

Below, we break down the pros, cons, and key differences between four popular options:

• Solid Treated Posts
• 3‑Ply Laminated Treated Bottom Posts
• Green Post Wrapped Posts
• Perma‑Column® Pre‑Cast Concrete Posts

1. Solid Treated Posts

Solid treated posts (often 6×6 or larger) have been used in post‑frame construction for decades.

Pros

• Economical – Generally the lowest upfront cost.
• Simple installation – One-piece posts are easy to set.
• Widely available – Readily sourced from treated lumber suppliers.

Cons

• Prone to warping or twisting – Larger solid lumber can crown or check over time.
• Variable quality – Treatment penetration varies depending on wood species.
• Ground rot risk – Even with proper treatment, solid posts can decay in soil contact over many years.

Best For

Budget-conscious projects where minimal risk of ground moisture or heavy soil exposure is present.

2. 3‑Ply Treated Bottom Posts

These feature a laminated multi‑ply upper column, with a treated lower section designed for in-ground installation. Richland Laminated Columns specializes in these high-performance laminated systems.

Pros

• Superior strength and consistency – Laminated plies reduce twisting and increase structural reliability.
• Better treatment penetration – Smaller boards absorb preservative more evenly.
• Cost-effective durability – Stronger and straighter than solids without a major price jump.
• Custom lengths and mixes – Easy to tailor to specific building needs.

Cons

• Still uses wood in the ground – Though improved, the treated bottom is still susceptible to long-term soil moisture.
• Slightly higher cost than solid posts.

Best For

Most standard post-frame buildings where reliability, straightness, and value matter.

3. Green Post Wrapped Posts

Green Post systems use a plastic or poly wrap around the ground-contact portion of a wooden post to create a moisture barrier.

Pros

• Enhanced rot protection – Physical wrap reduces soil contact with wood fibers.
• Longer lifespan compared to untreated ground-contact wood.
• Lightweight – Easy for crews to handle.

Cons

• Wrap damage risk – If nicked or torn during installation, moisture protection can be compromised.
• Trapped moisture concerns – If water does breach the wrap, drying is limited.

Best For

Customers seeking added rot protection without upgrading to a concrete-base system.

4. Perma‑Column® Pre‑Cast Concrete Posts

A premium option, Perma‑Column® replaces the in-ground wood entirely with precast concrete featuring steel reinforcement. Your wooden post attaches above grade.

Pros

• No wood in the ground—ever – Completely eliminates rot concerns.
• Extremely long lifespan – Concrete and steel provide unmatched durability.
• Improved structural performance – A rigid base helps resist uplift and lateral movement.
• Ideal for high-moisture environments – Wet soils, animal areas, and high-traffic barns.

Cons

• Higher upfront investment – This is typically the most expensive post option.
• Heavier to handle – Requires experience and sometimes specialized handling.

Best For

Buildings expected to last 50+ years, agricultural structures with heavy moisture exposure, and anyone wanting a truly “no rot” foundation.