2023 What Is The Best Wood For Fencing & Fence Posts

Wooden fences will always have a special place in the design of a home. You can chose among different types of woods depending on the aesthetics and functionalities you want to add. The wood fences serve different purposes include privacy, noise reduction, and security. Wood fences also offer many design and construction options. The most popular ones include picket, post and rail, wood lattice, louver, and vertical board fences.

Whatever your need for choosing wooden fencing, you will have to determine the right type of wood. So what is the best wood to serve your purpose? At Summit Fence, we have created this guide to help you make the right choice of wood depending on your unique needs.

Factors That You Should Consider When Choosing the Right Wood

Before you learn about the most popular types of woods for fences, it is important to know how different factors can affect the choice.

1. Local Weather

Consider the following points when assessing the weather before choosing a wood that can overcome the challenges:

1. Does your area have more rain or dry conditions?

2. Do you have temperatures reaching freezing conditions or above 100 degrees?

3. Does your area have stable weather or does it have vast ranges?

The choice of the right wood for your local conditions can prevent decay. This means your fence will last much longer.

2. Wood Species & Vulnerability to Insects

Termites can damage different types of wood. You should be aware of the different wood species that are vulnerable to insect infestation. Avoid choosing a wood that has not undergone pressure treatment or has not natural repellant properties.

3. Budget

Everyone has a budget. And your budget will affect which wood type you can afford for your fence. If you have a limited budget, likely, you may not want to choose the longest-lasting and sturdiest option.

However, you should know that choosing a more durable wooden fence can save you money over the long term. It is recommended to extend your budget to choose more durable woods if you intend to live longer in your home. If you plan to move out in the near future, you may choose more affordable wood that may not last as long. You can check out some tips for wood fence maintenance.

Here Are Some Of The Best Wood For Fencing and Their Key Features And Benefits.

1. Cedar

Cedar fence offers excellent resistance to rot and has natural oils that deter insects. If you are on a limited budget, it can be an excellent choice. Some of the key features are as follows:

1. Stained or painted cedar will not turn gray and can last longer

2. Staining helps preserve the natural beauty of the wood.

3. Sealant application can provide protection from UV rays and moisture.

2. Redwood

Redwood is one of the most widely used wood types for wooden fencing. It is expensive, but it more than compensates for its price with durability, quality, and beauty. It is naturally resistant to rot and insects. It is therefore considered the best wood for fencing. Still, it is recommended to stain your fence to preserve the looks and increase its life. Constant exposure to the following factors can still cause damage to your fence:

1. Moisture

2. Freezing

3. Thawing

4. Dry Conditions

Before you stain it, let your fence weather for some time so that the oils get dry.

3. Doughlas Fir

Douglas fir is known for its light brown shade with a touch of red/yellow or both. It is known for its straight and even grains with knots here and there. Some of the key features are as follows:

1. The graying can be controlled by sealing.

2. Staining, sealing, and painting can help achieve desired looks.

3. Your fence will have exceptional strength and stability.

4. It has some degree of resistance to decay and rot.

4. Cypress

Cypress has a naturally occurring compound called cypretine that protects it against insects. It is also a rot-resistant option for outdoor fencing. It is on the expensive side of the wood fence spectrum. Like other options, staining can help increase your fence’s lifespan. It is recommended to finish the stain with a sealant to strengthen the protective feature.

5. Pressure Treated Woods

Pressure-treated wood is also an excellent option for wooden fencing. It can feature a yellow to light green shade depending on the grade and species. You can also opt for color-treated wood that can be made to look like cedar or redwood. These fences can also be painted, stained, and sealed to achieve customized looks.

Some of the key features here include:

1. Pressure-treated wood is durable.

2. It is already treated to provide resistance to rot, termites, and decay.

3. The wood can show minor signs of shrinking/movement after installation.

When you choose this type of wood for your fence, you should expect slightly less stability than redwood and western red cedar. It is a more affordable wood type for fencing.

Pine is also an inexpensive option. It is known for its longevity. The soft form makes it easier to work with. Besides, there is no issue of shrinkage as with some other woods.

If you need more information about the best wood for fencing and other fence material options, Summit Fence can help you make the right choice. We have over 30 years of experience providing custom fencing solutions to our clients around the North Atlanta area.