Choose a private power pole around its required rating, exposure, footing and connection arrangement. Material matters, but a general timber-versus-steel claim cannot tell you whether a particular pole is suitable for your site.
Poles & Holes supplies galvanised steel permanent poles. The permanent pole page has current package options and prices. This guide explains the material considerations behind that choice.
Why we supply galvanised steel
Hot-dip galvanising provides a protective coating against corrosion. Steel is not a food source for termites and is non-combustible. Our pole designs have consistent dimensions and pre-drilled entry points, which help plan the installation and cabling.
Those properties do not remove the need to confirm the pole's rating and local exposure. Galvanised steel still needs inspection and maintenance. Do not treat a coating description as a guaranteed service life or a lifetime warranty.
What changes with a timber pole?
A timber pole has a different structural design and installation specification. Its condition can be affected by decay or termite damage, including damage that is not visible above ground. An existing timber pole should be assessed by an appropriately qualified contractor before deciding whether to repair or replace it.
Neither material can be selected by comparing a nominal height alone. The proposed loads, attachments and installation conditions matter. Ask the contractor to explain the specification required for the actual connection.
Does the network require steel?
Do not assume that every property must use steel or that a distributor universally recommends it over every other material. The current connection requirements and the proposed pole design determine suitability.
Have your contractor check the Queensland Electricity Connection Manual and the requirements for the job. Our reason for offering steel is the product and installation system we supply, rather than a claim that all alternatives are prohibited.
What about the footing and lifting equipment?
Our galvanised poles are installed with a crane truck on a prepared concrete footing. Your builder or concreter prepares that footing; we supply the foundation cage. Crane access and the readiness of the concrete need to be agreed before installation.
The foundation specification contains the original design packs and dimensions for 1 kN and 3.5 kN options. These are subject to stated conditions and site-specific confirmation. Do not substitute a footing from a different pole design simply because the heights look similar.
How should I compare lifespan and warranty?
Ask for the actual manufacturer's specification and warranty terms. Exposure, workmanship and ongoing maintenance affect the service life of either material. A design-life statement is not the same thing as a promise that a pole needs no maintenance or will be replaced free of charge.
For an existing pole, arrange an assessment based on condition. See warning signs and professional inspection for the safe next step.
Compare the whole installation quote
Check the pole rating and height, footing work, delivery and crane access, meter box and building cabling. Standard Energex fees are not included in permanent packages, including those with a meter box and connection. Our electricians’ connection visits are charged to you; confirm any separate retailer or metering work too.
Permanent poles are purchased, not hired for an ongoing weekly charge. Use the current permanent pole packages to request the scope you need.
Related Service
Permanent Power Pole Installation
Compare permanent pole packages, footing requirements and replacement options for your property.
