What Is the Best Wood for a Fence?

Of the many choices of fencing material available, wood is a perennial favorite. It’s a classic choice because many people prefer wood’s timeless beauty and natural look.

Once a homeowner chooses wood over metal or vinyl fencing, the next decision is determining which wood is best for a fence. The characteristics of Western Red Cedar make it a better choice for a fence than other types of wood.

Natural Durability

For properties in Minnesota, a wood fence must be able to endure the elements. Fortunately, a Minnesota homeowner who installs a red cedar fence can expect it to last a long time. 

Fences constructed of Western Red Cedar have a popular reputation for durability. The natural composition of Western Red Cedar trees is what makes fences made from their lumber so sturdy.

For example, a red cedar fence naturally resists rot and decay due to the oils and tannins cedar trees produce. Also, thujaplicin, which is a compound found naturally in Western Red Cedar trees, makes this wood resistant to attacks from fungi such as mold.

Homeowners may be concerned about potential damage to their wood fences from termites or other wood-destroying insects. The good news is Western Red Cedar has naturally occurring thujic acid that makes it insect resistant.

Stability

Every kind of wood fence experiences some level of shrinkage. However, cedar and redwood have a different cellular structure than other woods. Therefore, the shrinkage factor of a red cedar fence is extremely low. Such minimal shrinkage makes a cedar fence resistant to the warping that’s common to pine and oak fences.

Non-Toxic

Fences made of less durable wood, like pine, have to be constructed with pressure-treated lumber. Pressure-treated wood usually has been infused with corrosive copper-containing chemicals like Micronized Copper Quaternary, Copper Azole, or Alkaline Copper Quaternary.

The purpose of pressure-treating wood is to mimic the resistance to rot and insects that woods like Western Red Cedar have naturally. The lumber used to build red cedar fences is non-toxic. Red cedar is completely free of the chemicals used to pressure treat wood.

A Delight for the Eyes

It’s likely that many homeowners don’t choose cedar because it’s durable, stable, and non-toxic. Red cedar fences are popular because they look stunning. While all types of wood fences have a measure of visual appeal, the beauty of a red cedar fence is unmatched. 

Many generations of homeowners have prized red cedar’s rich color and straight grain. Left unfinished, a red cedar fence eventually becomes a gorgeous silvery gray. 

Since red cedar fences are so aesthetically pleasing, they offer greater curb appeal than other wood fences. Boosting curb appeal is an important consideration for homeowners who think they may sell their property in the future.

Pleasant Smell

The distinctive, earthy aroma of cedar does not have to be limited to cedar-lined closets and trunks. A red cedar fence brings that wonderful smell to the yard.

Custom Look

Homeowners can personalize their fence’s look. Although most homeowners prefer red cedar’s natural appearance, a cedar fence can be painted or stained. Fencing companies like Security Fence & Construction offer red cedar fences in a variety of styles like picket fences or privacy fences.

Fence Installation Company in Minneapolis

At Security Fence & Construction, we can help you select the right fencing material for your home or business. In addition to wood fences, we have metal and vinyl fencing solutions. We’re a family-owned business that has been serving Minnesota property owners since 1972. 

We would happy to have one of our skilled professionals provide you with a free estimate. Contact us to schedule an appointment.