Wooden fences have a classic appearance, and wood is really the only material that looks at-home with country and rustic architecture. While there are many types of wood to choose from, there are some that work better for fencing than others. Here's a look at three of the best types of wood to choose for your fence.

Pressure-Treated Pine

While you can use ordinary pine to build a fence, your fence will decay quite quickly because it's such a soft wood. Pine that has been pressure treated is much more durable and will withstand the elements a lot better. It's one of the most affordable choices for fencing, and it can be stained or painted to just about any color. However, pressure-treated pine must be carefully waterproofed, stained, or painted each year if you don't want it to fall prey to rot and damage. If you live in an area where termites are common, you'll also want to treat it with insecticides to keep these pests away.

Cedar

Cedar is one of the most common woods used for fencing in areas where there's a lot of rain or where termites are common. This is because it's naturally resistant to both rot and insects, thanks to its potent cedar essential oils. Cedar fencing is substantially more costly than pressure-treated pine, but it also requires less maintenance. While you can certainly paint or stain it if that's the look you prefer, the wood will stay in good shape even without this maintenance. As it weathers, cedar develops a gray look that will remind you of beachwood. If you like this look, then cedar is the natural choice for your fence.

Cypress

Cypress is very similar to cedar wood, but it can be harder to find in certain areas of the country. It's quite popular in the southern United States, but it comes with a really high price tag elsewhere. Like cedar, it's unappealing to insects and requires minimal maintenance. However, it can be susceptible to fungal invasion, so it's not the best choice if you live in a really wet climate.

In addition to these three woods, some homeowners also opt for oak and redwood for their fencing. Both of these options can be very costly, but as they are hard woods, the fences made from them will last for decades. To learn more about the best wood fences, speak with a fence contractor in your area.