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Wood Fencing: A Complementing Tradition

Homeowners love their yards. So, when it comes time to make a big change such as buying a fence, they are understandably nervous about making the right decision. Often their main concern is that a fence will compromise the natural beauty of their property. They realize the benefits of a fence, such as privacy and security, but they worry that they will be sacrificing the attractiveness of their yard for the usefulness of the new fence.

A Classic Choice

A wood fence is compatible with almost any landscape design. “The main reason people decide on a wood fence is because of its gorgeous, classic look,” says Steve Galinsky, a fence expert with over 30 years experience. “I have sold more wood fences than any other type of fence. After buyers see the fence installed, they automatically know they made the right choice.”

Indeed, the wood fence has become an icon within American culture. From the pages of Huckleberry Finn to the TV screen with Picket Fences, the wood fence is the most picturesque of all fences. But, a buyer need not think that their fence has to be cookie-cut, as there are many styles of wood fencing available.

“Today, customers have a variety of style options for their wood fence,” says Steve. “Manufacturers offer different choices as far as form, finish, and stain that change the appearance of the wood and really give the customer a unique selection of style.”

Not Just Good Looks

A wood fence has many more benefits than just its beautiful appearance. “The important secret about wood is that it also is a great material for fencing. New technologies help decrease problems in wood, such as rotting, decay, and insect damage. In the fencing business, this is called “pressure- treatment”,” Steve relates.

Pressure-treated wood is a wood product that is deeply infused with preservatives. This process helps stave off various forms of wood decay and accounts for its 20-year plus lifespan under the harshest conditions. “Pressure-treated fences are fences for all seasons and all environments” says Steve.

However, the benefits of pressure-treated wood do not out-shine the greatness of traditional, un-treated fences. Certain wood types like low-density cedar, redwood, pine and cypress hardwoods, naturally resist warping. Additionally, cedar produces a gorgeous appearance the longer it ages. The two most popular types of wood fences are western red cedar and southern yellow pine. These two woods comprise 80% of all wood fence sales and are known for their endurance and longevity.

Getting Your Money’s Worth

Wood fences are the least expensive on the market. Many experts consider them to be the most cost-effective fencing material. “The initial cost of a wood fence is significantly less the other fence types. It is also easy and cheap to repair.”

Replacing damages sections of a wood fence is also inexpensive and easy. Additionally, individual pickets and posts can be affordably replaced when needed.

Rob Stewart is a freelance writer who uses his passion and experience in outdoor design to write consumer minded articles. He has written over 200 articles and his outdoor design articles are an exclusive to fencequotes.com. He can be reached for comments and questions at robstewart@fencequotes.com.