When you are considering fencing material for your residence, you may find wood offers many benefits over metal or vinyl, such as better aesthetic appeal. Although the options can be overwhelming, there are several factors that can help you select the right wood fence from a place like F & W Fence Company, Inc.

Weather Conditions

You should consider the typical weather patterns for your area when choosing the specific type of wood. Think about both the warmer and cooler months. For example, high humidity during the warmer months, below freezing temperatures, and frozen precipitation means your fence will take a beating. When considering extreme climates, your major concerns will be choosing wood that is of a premium grade, since these woods are treated to be a uniform texture and can stand up better to moisture and drastic temperature changes than less expensive options.

Many lower-grade woods retain unique features, such as knots and uneven wood grains, which may be attractive if you enjoy the natural characteristics of wood, but these features are better left for areas with milder weather. Additionally, when considering high humidity, fungus and insect infestations may be more of a concern. Although there are treatments that can be used on wood fences, you may prefer to use a wood that has natural protection from microorganisms and insects, such as cedar, which is also less prone to rotting.

Affordability

Consider the long-term goals for your fence and how this factors into your budget. If you have a small budget and are not seeking a long-term investment in your property, but are merely looking for a simple wooden fence, a prefabricated fence made from spruce or pine can be an option. This can provide you with a good combination of affordability and easy installation. When you are in the market for a considerable investment, you will need to be more concerned with the longevity of your fence and how it wears over time. Redwood is well-known for its durability and can be a more expensive option. However, its natural beauty makes it an ideal investment piece.

Sometimes compromises can be made to keep your costs manageable. For example, you might choose to use different types of wood for certain sections of your fence. The fence posts, which require more durability than the slats, since they are embedded in the ground, can be made from pressure-treated pine, whereas the slats could be made from a more expensive option. Additionally, you may choose a more expensive option for the front of your residence and simply stain the wood on the side and back fences to give the illusion of the same materials.

Upkeep

Wood fences generally require more upkeep than their metal or vinyl counterparts. Therefore, you should take the maintenance into consideration when choosing a type of wood. For example, if you want relatively low maintenance, pressure-treated wood is the best option. You can typically find pressure-treated wood in various types, such as pine or cedar. The major advantage of pressure-treated wood is you can often gain the benefits of enhanced durability and rot-resistance in types of wood, such as pine or spruce, that would normally have a shorter lifespan.

Pressure-treated wood can be stained or painted to match your home and/or landscape. To increase the longevity, it should also be sealed periodically. For wood fences that are not pressure-treated, the upkeep can be more complicated. You may need to seal your fence yearly to minimize damage from moisture and other environmental variables. Additionally, sealing untreated woods regularly can minimize changes in color from weathering and the warping that can occur from exposure to direct sunlight.

With many types of wood available for fences, the choices can be confusing and overwhelming. By considering your durability and aesthetic needs, you can usually find an appropriate fence that works for your budget.