The Different Types of Wood Fences Explained

The global market size for fencing solutions has experienced impressive growth over the years and is now worth over $27.2 billion. By 2027, that figure will grow to an astounding $34.4 billion.

Many reasons can be attributed to the increasing demand for fencing, including the need for security. In America alone, over one million burglaries occur each year. Many homeowners also love the aesthetic and privacy benefits that a fence affords you.

Among the most popular types of fences are those made of wood. Currently, there are numerous types of wood fences from which homeowners can choose. In this post, we examine each of these wood fence types so you can make an informed decision when shopping for a fence.

Cedar Fences

Cedarwood is one of the commonest types of softwood that are native to many parts of the US. But while cedar is classified as softwood, it is incredibly durable. Even when untreated, the wood can last more than three decades, which is longer than many other varieties of wood.

Cedarwood is naturally resistant to decay and insects. For this reason, cedar fences tend to be both durable and low-maintenance.

Cedar fences are also quite attractive, with the wood having a vivid color. But cedar’s impressive qualities also mean that the fence is more expensive compared to most other types of wooden fences.

People who opt for cedarwood fences can choose between red cedar and white cedar.

Pinewood Fences

Pinewood is another type of softwood found in numerous parts of America. Pine is naturally stiff and highly resistant to shock, which makes it one of the best options for wood fences.

Pinewood’s soft texture makes it easy to work with. The wood has a lighter color with a creamy white shade. Some pinewood varieties have a super white shade, while some have a yellowish color. Regardless of the color tone you opt for, pinewood is one of the most aesthetically pleasing woods to work with.

The lighter shade of pinewood makes it easier to stain with a color of your choice. A single coat of stain is sufficient for you to achieve the finish you wish for. The wood’s prominent grains and darker notes give your fence a distinctive appearance.

Pinewood fencing tends to be cheaper compared to cedar fencing, primarily because pine grows much faster and is therefore easily available in the market. That makes this type of fencing ideal for those working on a budget.

Perhaps the biggest drawback of pinewood fencing is that the material tends to get damaged quite easily. Dents and scratches are common. Restaining the wood can help you refresh your fence’s charm.

Oak Fences

Oakwood is one of the best-known and most used types of hardwood in the country. Oak is available in roughly 600 species, so homeowners are spoilt for choice when it comes to what type of oakwood they want.

Few wood types are as strong, durable, and reliable as oakwood. The wood can last hundreds of years.

Oakwood fences are also very attractive. The wood has a light color that features visible wavy grain notes. That makes it super distinctive.

Adding a neat finish provides a sightly highlight to the fence. When you apply natural oils to the wood, the material gleams vividly, elevating your fence’s overall appeal. Over time, oak wood darkens in color, achieving an amber tone which is also attractive.

The main drawback when it comes to oakwood fences is the material’s relatively higher price compared to many wooden fence types. But the many benefits of oakwood make them worth the cost.

Cypress Wood Fences

While cypress is a softwood, its tendency to grow alongside hardwoods has led it to be grouped and manufactured with hardwoods traditionally. Cypress wood typically has a lighter tone. Expect a yellowish-brown shade in most cases.

If the fence has some pockets that appear darker, it may be a sign of a fungi attack. A common distinctive feature of cypress wood is a coarse texture that contains straight grains.

Generally, fences made from older cypress trees tend to be more durable than those made from younger ones. To maximize the quality of your fence, consider staining the material. This is a project you can do on your own over the weekend.

Perhaps the main drawback of cypress wood is its strong odor that can result in respiratory irritation for people with allergies. And given that cypress trees are native to the southern parts of the US, homeowners in the north may find it pricey to use the material due to the transportation costs involved.

Redwood Fence

Of all the different types of wood fences available today, redwood fences are the most common. The material’s overall quality and beauty make it highly desirable to homeowners.

Redwood is highly resistant to rot and pests. That said, the material may still be affected by persistent snowfall, moisture, thawing, and dry air. For this reason, it pays to waterproof the fence.

Wood Fence Styles

The different types of wooden fences we’ve talked about are available in a variety of styles. Each style offers its own set of properties.

One of the most popular styles is lattice, which comprises thin diagonal slats in a crisscross pattern. If you’re looking for privacy fencing, lattice is the way to go.

There are also picket fences, which have been popular in the US since the country’s early colonial times. These fences feature evenly-spaced vertical wooden boards that are attached to horizontal rails. They’re often used for both aesthetic and security purposes.

Homeowners can also opt for rail fences, especially when fencing large yards. And if you’re looking to fully enclose your property, then a wooden framed chain link fence should do the job perfectly.

Know the Best Types of Wood Fences for Your Needs

Homeowners looking for wood fencing have many options to choose from. Each of the different types of wood fences has its own characteristics. Knowing what exactly you want in a fence can help you make the right choice for you.

Are you interested in a reliable fencing solution for your property? Please, contact us today.