What are the best types of wood for fences? We’ll go over pine, cypress, and redwood, among other options. These woods are durable and attractive, so we’ll focus on the qualities that make each one good for fences. Cedar is an excellent fence because of its warm reddish tones and unique grain pattern. It will weather to a silver-gray patina, but you can prevent this from happening by regular staining. Western Red Cedar accepts various finishes, including oil, varnish, and polyurethane.
Cedar
Cypress is an excellent choice for a fence because of its high resistance to insects and rot. In addition, its high level of cypretine content makes it a naturally resistant wood with a long lifespan compared to other types of wood. Although it’s native to the southern United States, cypress can be costly, as transportation costs can make it challenging to obtain. Cypress is an attractive wood that looks fantastic but is not as strong as cedar.
While some believe that California incense cedar is not suitable for fence building, it is the best type for most purposes. Western Red Cedar is aromatic, while Spanish Cedar is insect-repellent. Some types of cedar are more suited for other uses, including musical instruments, furniture, and arrow shafts. Those looking for a lighter-colored wood for a fence may prefer Northern white cedar, which has a light to creamy white shade.
Pine
When choosing the best types of wood for fences, consider the climate in your area. If it gets a lot of rain, redwood is a better choice. In a dry place, pine would be a better choice. Woods that are less resistant to water tend to rot, mold, and mildew more easily. A dense, rot-resistant wood will save you money on maintenance.
Cypress, also known as Ipe, is a durable hardwood. It doesn’t easily warp or twist and has natural properties that repel pests. Cypress is usually cheaper than other woods and is widely available in the Southeast. Another common type of wood for fences is spruce, but this type of wood is not as durable as cypress. Spruce is prone to insect infestation, and the wood is usually blemished and coarse.
Cypress
One of the most popular wood types for fencing is cypress. This fast-growing, evergreen wood has a tight grain that is unappealing to insects. Young cypress fences are relatively pest-free as the wood contains no tannins, a characteristic that makes cypress an excellent choice for new fences. Older cypress fences may have some insects, but they can be treated with insecticides to keep them from penetrating the fence.
Once the fence is up, it should be sealed to protect it from moisture and sunlight. Depending on the type of wood, it may last for as long as 25 years. Proper care will help it last longer. If properly maintained, cypress wood fences will last for as long as 20 years. In addition, this type of wood has natural chemicals that repel insects. They are also an excellent choice for those on a tight budget.
Redwood
There are many benefits to using redwood for a fence. It grows fast and replenishes efficiently. Unlike other woods, it is resistant to rot and insects. Also, redwood is durable and does not require much maintenance. Here are some of these benefits:
Cypress and cedar are both great options. Cypress is a softwood that is resistant to rot and insects. It also takes stains well and looks equally rustic if left untreated. Spruce is another common material for a fence. Its grain pattern makes it an excellent choice for budget-conscious homeowners, though it is more expensive as it ages. Finally, redwood is costly and can be vulnerable to freezing and thawing.
Ipe
When choosing the right type of wood for a fence, look for one that matches the aesthetic you’re going for and that you feel comfortable working with. Ipe is an attractive choice, as it won’t need regular maintenance and won’t be difficult to stain and work with. Aside from that, Ipe is a durable material and can last as long as 75 years outdoors.
Ipe is also challenging, which means it will hold well in even the most extreme climates. It’s naturally resistant to insects, mold, and decay. It’s also highly durable and can last more than 50 years without needing any maintenance. If left untreated, the rich brown color will turn silver. This type of wood does require an annual oil treatment, but other than that, it doesn’t require any maintenance.
