Home Improvement, Repair & Construction

How to Install a Wood Fence

A wood fence can add value to your home and be the perfect choice for privacy and security. Wood fences come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and materials. The type of fence you choose depends on the climate, your budget, and the purpose for which you are installing it. While redwood is the most popular and durable wood for fencing, a cheaper alternative like spruce may be better for you.

For people who live in rainy cities, it’s important to choose a fence that will hold up well to moisture. Wet wood will decay and warp faster. In addition, if your fence is going to be exposed to heavy snow drifts, choose a lumber that can withstand the weight. If you want to protect your fence from insect infestation, you can stain it regularly.

Whether you want a painted or unpainted fence, you’ll need to decide how long you’ll need to keep it. The longer you’re planning to stay in your home, the more durable your fence needs to be. However, if you’re only planning to be there for a short period of time, you don’t need to invest in a fence that’s made of a hardy, durable material.

One of the most important elements of your wood fence is the posts. These are the backbone of the entire fence, and they need to be properly set. The base of the posts should be firmly anchored in concrete. Using concrete anchors will prevent the posts from rotting due to wet soil.

Before deciding on a fence, it’s a good idea to take measurements of the area where you’re planning to put it. You’ll also need to consider the size of the lumber that you’ll need. Generally, you’ll need about a foot of wood for each foot of height. This means that if you need six feet of wood, you’ll need six posts. Depending on the style of your fence, you may also need to install two or three backer rails. Each backer rail is a horizontal board that connects the post to the pickets.

Another critical component of your fence is the cap board. It’s a 2×6 or 2×8 piece of wood that runs along the top of the posts. Unless you want your fence to look unfinished, you’ll need to stain it. Not only will it make it appear more attractive, it will protect it from damage by the weather.

If you plan to paint your wooden fence, you’ll need to ensure that the wood has been treated with a weatherproofing sealant. Weatherproofing will protect the fence against heat, moisture, and extreme temperatures. As well as preventing the growth of mold and mildew, it will preserve the natural beauty of the wood.

Other considerations to keep in mind are the quality of the wood and the durability of the posts. While you don’t have to worry too much about a well-installed fence, a rotting or a bare post will give you the first hint that something needs to be done. If you are planning getting a wood fence make sure you get from the best fence company in Houston, TX.