Which statement best describes a water shield?

• A. It Is a Hydraulic/Auger
• B. It Is a Waterproofing Treatment Applied to the Post Prior to Setting
• C. It Is Concrete Poured 2 Inches Above Grade and Sloped Away
• D. It Is Aluminum Flashing Attached to the Post Base

Answer: (C)

Water shields are about stopping moisture from reaching wooden posts by creating a barrier at the base that sheds water away. Pouring concrete around the base so it sits about 2 inches above grade and is sloped away from the post builds that barrier and directs water away, reducing water wicking and rot. This approach gives a durable, physical shield at the bottom of the post, which is exactly what a water shield aims to provide.

Other ideas describe different moisture-control measures that don’t establish a base-level barrier around the post. For example, a waterproof coating on the post protects the wood itself but doesn’t create the protective shield at the ground line, while flashing or a hydraulic auger serves other functions and doesn’t form the same water-diverting barrier.