The International Association of Certified Home Builders says that a wood fence has an approximate lifespan of about 20 years with maintenance. Your fence’s lifespan can be increased significantly if you use quality wood from the point of installation. The following 6 types of wood hold up better among others and also have certain characteristics that may fit the needs of your next fence project.
- White Oak: White oak stays strong when exposed to harsh conditions, due to its tough, hardy wood. Many individuals that live on farms choose white oak for horse enclosements, for its strength. However, oak does have a tendency to warp or bow, which should be taken into consideration.
- Western Red Cedar: Western Red Cedar is resistant to many of the ills that your average pine is likely to show evidence of wear and tear. Western red cedar has a naturally beautiful appearance, and naturally resists moisture, rot and insect infestation. This particular wood is great for pickets as well as posts.
- Black Locust: Black Locust is another favorite for those who have horses. This is one of the toughest woods found north of the equator. It is well known for being used for posts, and can last decades without any significant maintenance needs.
- Tropical Hardwoods: Some of the most durable outdoor woods come from South America. Tigerwood and Cherry Wood are extremely heavy, hard and dense. The only drawback to this type of wood is that it is priced significantly higher than other types of woods. This type of wood is sometimes criticized for not being environmentally friendly. These tropical hardwoods are available from responsible sources and will need to be replaced less than domestic woods. Which poses the argument that they are actually a more green choice.
- Pressure Treated Pine: Pressure treated pine is less expensive. This type of wood gets its durability through chemical treatments and physical processes. This type of wood was once named the best type of wood for outdoor activity, pressure treated pine is losing popularity.
- Plastic Lumber: Plastic lumber is not technically a wood, the look of synthetic materials is now closer to wood than ever before. PVC can last a long time – up to 100 years or more with minimal maintenance. Fungus will not harm PVC nor will moisture or bugs. PVC is a little more pricey than other types of wood, as it is not technically lumber. However, this investment will last you a long time.
Source: Red Beacon
