PRESSURE TREATED PINE
Pine is an inexpensive, easily accessible soft wood that – when treated with chemicals – provides a reliable option for fence framing (posts and rails).
PROS:
- Lowest cost, chemical provides rot resistance
- Longest lasting softwood option
- Recommended option for wood posts and framework (pieces that accept fasteners, like screws or nails)
CONS: - Susceptible to warping, twisting, and cracking – ranging from mild to severe. This is an aesthetic downside, not a durability/longevity flaw
- Chemical treatments can pose health risks to small animals, children, and plants
- Cannot be recycled after use
WESTERN RED & SUGI CEDAR
Cedar is the most reliable and sustainable species of soft wood used for fencing. It can be used for fence framing for a nicer look, and it’s one of the best wood option for pickets.
PROS:
- Contains natural acids that deter insects
- Minimal shrinkage and lowest vulnerability to warping, twisting, and checking among coniferous lumber
- Superior sound dampening due to cellular pore network
- Cedar lumber trees are fast growing, and provide one of the most sustainable options for fence material
- Can be recycled after use
CONS: - Will decay/rot naturally and require replacement sooner than treated or composite alternatives
KNOW YOUR CEDAR:
Our picket of choice is #2 grade Western Red Cedar, known for its durability and beauty—this is the high-quality picket option in our region.
During COVID-era shortages, many companies (including us) switched to Japanese Cedar for a while (also called Import Cedar, Island Cedar, Sugi, or simply “Cedar”). While more affordable, Japanese Cedar is more prone to warping and rot, so additional mid-supports and a stain/sealer are recommended.
Now that Western Red Cedar is available again, it’s the way to go! Many companies are still using Japanese Cedar for their estimates.
GRADES MATTER:
- #1 or “clear” – Minimal knots, very expensive.
- #2 – Knots stay intact long-term.
- #3 – Knots may fall out (Hello, neighbor! Nice swimsuit!).
COMPOSITES
A mixture of recycled plastics and woods, composites offer superior looks, longevity, and manufacturer warranties.
PROS:
- Made of 95% recycled material.
- Up to 25 year manufacturers warranty against warping, cracking, and twisting.
- No maintenance required.
- Multiple color options available.
CONS: - High price compared to wood products
- High manufacturing carbon footprint
- Cannot be recycled after use
GALVANIZED STEEL
Steel provides the longest lasting post structure for any fence, particularly with the rust resistance offered by galvanization. We recommend steel posts for all clients who want their fence to maintain a nice, straight appearance long-term, or who plan to live in their home long enough to replace the lumber without the cost of new posts.
Reputable ornamental iron manufacturers use only galvanized steel as their base metal prior to powder coating.
FASTENERS (NAILS, SCREWS, ETC.)
See blog post entitled “Why We Use Stainless Steel Ringshank Nails”
