My Top 5 Picks for Rail-Wood
- Oak (white oak is better than red)
- Black Locust
- Black Walnut
- Cedar
What is the best wood for a fence?
What is the most common material used for fencing?
What happens if you leave a redwood fence unstained?
Why is quality of fence posts important?
What is red cedar fencing?
How long does a wood fence last?
What is the grade of redwood?
See 2 more
What wood is used for split rail fences?
cedarSplit rail fences were made of easy to split, rot-resistant wood. Traditionally American chestnut was the timber of choice until chestnut blight eliminated this tree. Currently, most split rails are made from cedar.
What is the best wood to use for fence rails?
Redwood is one of the most widely used wood types for wooden fencing. It is expensive, but it more than compensates for its price with durability, quality, and beauty. It is naturally resistant to rot and insects. It is therefore considered the best wood for fencing.
What is the best timber for post and rail fencing?
One of the best timber for post and rail fencing is treated pine, as it's incredibly versatile to work with and durable. Used extensively in the building industry in a range of outdoor constructions, you can expect to find treated pine in everything from decks, pergolas to retaining walls and cladding.
How deep should split rail fence posts be?
Dig holes about a third as deep as they are tall. For example, a 6-foot post needs a hole at least 2-feet deep, plus add about 4-inches for gravel. The diameter of the hole should be three times the width of the post. Ensure that the bottom rail will remain a few inches above ground.
Do you need to use pressure treated wood for fence rails?
When used for fencing, it must be pressure-treated to stand up to decay and the elements. It resists shrinkage, but it can still warp, crack, or twist. When properly treated, it can last a lifetime, even if it comes in contact with wet soil.
What size wood do you use for fence rails?
2” x 3”The most common size for rails is 2” x 3” or 2” x 4”. Maximum post spacing is 8' between posts; thus, a 2″ x 4″ x 8′ rail would be used.
Is hardwood better than treated pine?
However, treated pine timber fence is not as durable as hardwood, and it will eventually rot and decay. Hardwood fences are more expensive than treated pine fences, but they last much longer. Hardwood posts are also more resistant to moisture, termites, and insects attack, making them better for humid climates.
Is treated pine good for fencing?
Pressure treated pine is one of the most popular choices in residential outdoor structures, which includes fences, porches and decks. PTP is prone to shrinking, warping and cracking, which is made worse by the sun. In order to prevent decay, weathering and termites' pressure treated pine is chemically treated.
How high should a post and rail fence be?
Post & Rail Fencing is available in fence heights of 900mm, 1200mm, 1500mm and 1800mm. Its simple design makes it an ideal choice for use on sloping sites and uneven ground.
Should I cement split rail fence posts?
No, the hole should be filled only with the dirt that came out of the hole and tamped back in . Concrete is bad for the wood (erodes it), and gravel simply creates a porous pocket where water can collect.
Do you cement split rail fence posts?
The only time fence posts do not need to be set in concrete is if you are installing a split rail fence, or a pasture fence which is installed utilizing t-posts. In every other situation, setting your fence posts in concrete is a must.
How tall should a split rail fence be?
The fences range from a height of four to six feet depending on fence regulations in your area, and there are usually two to five rails between each post.
Can you use 1x4 for fence rails?
The fence needs to look good from both sides, and I was going to use (2) 1x4s as rails, sandwiching the 1×6 vertical fence boards. 1×4 rails so it provides a nice shawdow line (5/8) on each side. I'd toenail the 1x4s into the posts. A 2×4 rail might be more sturdy, but the fences wouldn't look symmetrical.
What wood is used for privacy screens?
cedar or redwood. If you use basic pressure treated pine you'll get some pretty spectacular twisting and warping on a fence of that design.
Is Douglas fir good for fence rails?
Douglas fir is widely known for its superior strength, stability, and high-quality appearance, making it a popular building material for projects from timber trusses to fencing. Left untreated, it features some natural resistance to rot and decay, which can be enhanced by applying a protective finish.
Is pressure treated wood good for fences?
Strong and Durable: Denser than untreated wood products and resistant to scratches and dents, pressure treated lumber is perfect for long-term use.
What is the best wood for a fence?
It is affordable but typically less durable than other woods so it needs to be maintained regularly. It consists of mostly southern yellow pine and is often considered the least expensive wood to use for a fence (usually half the price of most other woods). Most pressure treated wood is treated with a chemical to preserve the wood and protect it from rot and insects. The most common chemicals used to treat pressure treated wood include: Alkaline Copper Quaternary (ACQ), Copper Azole (CA), and, the most recent, Micronized Copper Quaternary (MCQ).
What is the most common material used for fencing?
Wood has been used for creating fence for centuries throughout the United States and most of the world. It is the most used material for fence today. Although wood fencing has a limited life and requires maintenance, it is often chosen over other fence materials, like vinyl and aluminum, because it’s the cheapest option.
What happens if you leave a redwood fence unstained?
If the redwood is left unstained, the fence may turn a grayish color. Redwood is a softwood that often considered the most expensive of any wood used in fencing and decks. In most regions of the country, redwood and cedar each cost at least three times more than pressure-treated lumber.
Why is quality of fence posts important?
The quality of the fence posts are very important because they are often the first part of your fence to fail. So now let’s talk about the quality of wood and how it’s graded. Lumber is graded based on how it will be used. The fewer knots and defects, the higher the grade and the more expensive it is.
What is red cedar fencing?
Western Red Cedar is a naturally durable fencing material that provides exceptional character and can be used for both residential and commercial projects. It is a truly sustainable fence material with an extremely low environmental impact (compared to vinyl and other wood species).
How long does a wood fence last?
According to the International Association of Certified Home Builders, a wood fence has an approximate lifespan of about 20 years with regular maintenance. A fence’s life expectancy can be increased significantly if you pay up for a high-quality wood.
What is the grade of redwood?
Redwood grades rank from construction common, a mix of heartwood and sapwood, to clear all heart, an all heart grade with no imperfections. Redwood can be used for all parts of a wood fence but different grades can be used for different parts. Lower grade construction common redwood is OK for fence panels.
What is the best wood for a split rail fence?
Cedar lumber has oils in it that naturally make it weather resistant. This makes cedar a great choice for split rail fence. Mostly used in western states, cedar split rail fences last for decades in dry open areas like fields and pastures. Cedar posts and rails have a very rustic look. Rails will have a more square shape as compared to other types of lumber. Unlike treated and hardwood rails, cedar rails do not overlap each other at the post. They fit inside the posts like a tenon and mortise joint. In wet areas however, the dryer more porous cedar lumber can wick in and hold moisture. As a result growing a mold or fungus. This causes rot and decay if left unattended.
What type of lumber is used for split rail fences?
Split rail fences use three types of lumber. Locust posts with hardwood rails, pressure treated spruce, and cedar. Each type of lumber has proven to last. However, each lumber type also has advantages and disadvantages. Let’s take a more in-depth look at each type of lumber used for split rail fences.
What is Split Rail Fence?
Split rail fence is a style of wood fence, made up of only two components. Posts and rails. The post is the vertical supporting piece of the fence. Each post has holes milled into them. The rail is the horizontal piece of the fence. Manufactured from logs of lumber that get split apart. Rails insert into the post holes. Split rail fences can have 2, 3 or 4 rails. Different types of lumber are used for split rail fences. Locust, cedar and spruce are the most common. Split rail fences are rustic looking and easy to install. They are great for defining property lines, containing horses and livestock, or simply for decoration.
What Height Does Split Rail Fence Come In?
There are three standard heights. 2 rail fence is installed at 36″ high. 3 rail fence is installed at 48″ high. Lastly, 4 rail fence is installed at 54″ – 60″ high. The height of the fence is measured at the top of the rail. The posts will stick out slightly higher. What the intent the fence is used for will help determine what height the fence should be. Let’s take a look at each height and discuss some examples on where they would be used.
How high should a 3 rail fence be?
The most common height is a 3 rail fence. Measuring in at 48″, it is popular for many applications. Take a drive to the country and you will see 3 rail split rail fence surrounding many farms and pastures. Because it is inexpensive, it is great for covering large amounts of footage. Combined with its easy installation, it is a popular choice for ranchers and farmers. But 3 rail split rail fence isn’t just for keeping in animals. Homeowners use it in conjunction with a wire mesh backing to keep in pets and children. Builders use it along the road frontage leading up to entrances of developments. Parks and golf courses use 3 rail split rail fences around lakes and ponds, and along parking lots to prevent cars from driving on the grass.
What is poplar railing?
Poplar is the hardwood lumber for the rails. Rail inconsistency is common with all three types of lumber. Some rails are larger than others. Poplar rails give split rail a sturdy robust look. But locust and poplar have become more expensive overtime. So manufactures started using treated yellow pine for both.
What is a black locust fence?
Black locust is a dense and strong hardwood. Perfect for fence posts. When I started installing fence 25 years ago, every split rail fence we installed had locust posts. Some of those posts are still standing today. However, the problem with locust posts was consistency. Some posts were 5″ across and others were 9″ across. Some posts would have a nice rectangular cut to them and others would be smooth on one side and have a half radius on the other side with bark hanging off it. When setting posts, it made it more difficult to keep them inline with one another. Split rail is supposed to be rustic. But some locust posts weren’t acceptable to customers. Especially in residential settings.
What kind of wood is used for a fence?
There are many fence material options available, but some of the most common wood species used for fencing are Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, Pressure-Treated Wood and Redwood. They’re not all created equal, but they all will give you a strong, sturdy fence (assuming it’s properly installed). Your choice is less about safety and more about ...
What is the most economical choice for wood that’s resistant to insects and rot?
Pressure-treated wood is the most economical choice for wood that’s resistant to insects and rot.
What color is pressure treated wood?
Pressure-treated wood has a natural yellow to light mint-green hue with some knots which can vary based on grade and species of wood. There are also color-treated varieties that have been infused with a pigment to mimic the look of Redwood or Cedar. Like Western Red Cedar, pressure-treated wood accepts paint, stain and sealer so you can customize to meet your desired look. We recommend a semi-transparent stain for best results. This wood also weathers to a gray if it’s not maintained – follow a proper maintenance plan to keep your fence looking fresh.
What is the color of Western red cedar?
Western Red Cedar has warm, reddish tones with a unique grain pattern and well-spaced knots. It weathers to a silver-gray patina over time – this can be minimized by applying stain or sealer regularly. It readily accepts a variety of finishes, so you can customize to get the look you desire.
Which is stronger, redwood or heartwood?
Redwood is the hardest of the three materials, making it very strong and durable. It’s also very stable – it will not shrink or warp after installation. Like its color, Redwood ’s resistance to insects and rot varies based on the part of the tree. Heartwood will have the greatest resistance.
What is the most expensive building material?
Redwood is the most expensive building material on our list.
Which is more expensive, Douglas Fir or Western Red Cedar?
Western Red Cedar is more expensive than pressure-treated wood and Douglas fir, but less expensive than Redwood.
What is the best wood for fencing?
Redwood is a popular choice for wooden fencing. It is often considered the best wood for fencing, and certainly one of the most common, although that designation is dependent on many factors. What makes it so appealing is that redwood is exceptionally durable. It is insect-resistant and weathers well.
What is the best fence for a backyard?
A tall wooden privacy fence is one of the hallmarks of suburban living. If you want something more rural, a split rail fence is an excellent choice.
Why is cypress used for fencing?
Cypress is a great choice for fencing because it contains cypretine, a natural bug repellent. Its resistance to insects means less damage over time. Like cedar, many homeowners choose cypress for the look of the wood. To preserve its natural beauty, builders often stain instead of paint cypress fences.
What is the oldest material for a fence?
Wood is probably the oldest material for fences, and it has continued to be a favorite. Wood also offers many, many options. You can choose practically any shape and style. Wood is easy to work with and, when appropriately treated, holds up to the elements pretty well.
Where is redwood fencing native to?
Redwood has a very narrow natural range. In the U.S., it is native only to the western slope of the Sierra Nevada mountain range and the coastal areas of Northern California.
Is pine good for outdoor fencing?
Pine is a popular choice for wood fencing. It is soft and easy to work with, and it is also one of the cheapest options. Pine has some natural resistance to insects. But in almost every case, pine for outdoor fencing needs to be pressure treated. When wood is pressure treated, chemical gases are forced into the wood under high pressure. The chemicals help the wood withstand insects, moisture, and other weather-related dangers.
Is wood a good fence?
But many homeowners are determined to stick with wood for its classic, natural look. We agree that wood is an excellent choice for a residential or commercial fence. However, once you’ve decided to go with wood, you still have more choices to make. The two most important decisions you need to make with a wood fence are what type ...
What is split rail fencing?
Today’s split rail fences are an adaptation of the old zigzag rail fences from yesteryear. It may be a better option for use on larger properties where you need to see the borders of your property at a distance. It is commonly used on farms and ranches to keep livestock contained. Split rail fencing is probably the most cost effective wood fence ...
What is the last type of wood rail fence?
The last wood rail fence type we will look at is the wood & metal rail fence – a modern take on the wood rail fence.
What is the strongest post for a wood rail fence?
Metal posts are the strongest posts you can use for a wood rail fence. Unlike a wooden post, metal fence posts are 100% rot and insect resistant and can last for decades. Most of our wood and metal rail fences are made with stained cedar planks and black metal posts. The combination of the metal posts and the wooden rails offer a beautiful modern ...
What is a wood rail fence?
Differing from privacy fences, wood rail fences provide visibility through the fence while creating a visible boundary for your property.
What are ranch rails made of?
These rails are commonly made from western red cedar wood. Rails can be left plain to weather into a gray color. …Or you could stain or paint the fence any color you desire.
What is the most cost effective wood fence?
Split rail fencing is probably the most cost effective wood fence option for fencing in large areas. This is because the process to make split rails is simpler compared to most other rails. Logs are split lengthwise to make individual rails. They continue this process until multiple pieces have been created.
What color is a vinyl rail fence?
Vinyl rail fences come in a variety of style options. A vinyl rail fence is certainly an eye catcher for its striking white color, but that is not the only thing that makes it stand out. High quality vinyl material are strong and known for longevity.
What color is pressure treated wood?
Pressure-treated wood is also an excellent option for wooden fencing. It can feature a yellow to light green shade depending on the grade and species. You can also opt for color-treated wood that can be made to look like cedar or redwood. These fences can also be painted, stained, and sealed to achieve customized looks.
Is pine wood shrinkage?
It is known for its longevity. The soft form makes it easier to work with. Besides, there is no issue of shrinkage as with some other woods.
Is cedar good for rot?
Cedar offers excellent resistance to rot and has natural oils that deter insects. If you are on a limited budget, it can be an excellent choice. Some of the key features are as follows:
Can you save money by choosing a more durable fence?
However, you should know that the choice of a more durable wooden fence can save you money over the long term. It is recommended to extend your budget to choose more durable woods if you intend to live longer in your home. If you plan to move out in the near future, you may choose more affordable wood that may not last as long.
Is cypress wood rot resistant?
Cypress has a naturally occurring compound called cypretine that protects it against insects. It is also a rot-resistant option for outdoor fencing. It is on the expensive side of the wood fence spectrum. Like other options, staining can help increase your fence’s lifespan. It is recommended to finish the stain with a sealant to strengthen the protective feature.
Preliminary Steps
Before you start a fencing project, a few preliminary steps are in order:
Post and Rail Fence Materials
The most common materials are pine and cedar. Rails are usually 8 feet or 11 feet long and can be round, half round or square/diamond shaped. The rails insert into the holes in the posts and are held in place by their own weight.
Fence Layout
The layout of the fence is somewhat determined by length of the pre-cut fencing rails. The problem is that few landscapes are laid out in 8-foot or 11-foot increments. That's why measuring is a must.
Slope Changes
When dealing with slopes, follow the angle of the slope on steep inclines.
Dig Post Holes
The most important part of a fence is underground: the posts. When planning the height of your posts, plan for a clearance of at least 6 inches from the ground to the lowest rail to allow mowing and trimming. Add a couple of inches for settling over time. The best practice is to put 1/3 of the post in the ground.
What is the best wood for a fence?
It is affordable but typically less durable than other woods so it needs to be maintained regularly. It consists of mostly southern yellow pine and is often considered the least expensive wood to use for a fence (usually half the price of most other woods). Most pressure treated wood is treated with a chemical to preserve the wood and protect it from rot and insects. The most common chemicals used to treat pressure treated wood include: Alkaline Copper Quaternary (ACQ), Copper Azole (CA), and, the most recent, Micronized Copper Quaternary (MCQ).
What is the most common material used for fencing?
Wood has been used for creating fence for centuries throughout the United States and most of the world. It is the most used material for fence today. Although wood fencing has a limited life and requires maintenance, it is often chosen over other fence materials, like vinyl and aluminum, because it’s the cheapest option.
What happens if you leave a redwood fence unstained?
If the redwood is left unstained, the fence may turn a grayish color. Redwood is a softwood that often considered the most expensive of any wood used in fencing and decks. In most regions of the country, redwood and cedar each cost at least three times more than pressure-treated lumber.
Why is quality of fence posts important?
The quality of the fence posts are very important because they are often the first part of your fence to fail. So now let’s talk about the quality of wood and how it’s graded. Lumber is graded based on how it will be used. The fewer knots and defects, the higher the grade and the more expensive it is.
What is red cedar fencing?
Western Red Cedar is a naturally durable fencing material that provides exceptional character and can be used for both residential and commercial projects. It is a truly sustainable fence material with an extremely low environmental impact (compared to vinyl and other wood species).
How long does a wood fence last?
According to the International Association of Certified Home Builders, a wood fence has an approximate lifespan of about 20 years with regular maintenance. A fence’s life expectancy can be increased significantly if you pay up for a high-quality wood.
What is the grade of redwood?
Redwood grades rank from construction common, a mix of heartwood and sapwood, to clear all heart, an all heart grade with no imperfections. Redwood can be used for all parts of a wood fence but different grades can be used for different parts. Lower grade construction common redwood is OK for fence panels.