Wood Fencing in Baton Rouge

The most popular woods used for fencing are pressure-treated pine and cedar, but there are a few other options like cypress or redwood. The price and availability of certain types of wood may vary based on where you live. 

• Treated Pine is a softwood that is easy to work with. This kind of wood fencing material is the most common due to its low cost, longevity, and resistance to shrinkage.
• Cedar is a popular, but somewhat expensive, option. Cedar wood doesn't require much maintenance and contains naturally occurring insect-repelling chemicals. It is regarded as one of the most attractive fencing materials out there, due to its ruddy color, rustic texture, and refreshing smell.
• Cypress is a popular alternative to cedar because it's also insect-resistant and has a similar price point. It also has a great look with some knots in the wood and also gives off a nice aroma.

• Redwood is similar to cedar, in that it is insect-resistant, long-lasting, and costs about the same amount, but it is a denser wood. This means it is more durable but also heavier and harder to work with. Some people prefer redwood fencing because of the deep color and knotted texture of the wood itself.

The main benefit of using treated wood, also known as pressure-treated lumber, is that it is moisture resistant. When left in moist or wet conditions, untreated wood will soften quickly and begin to slowly decompose.  Other advantages to using treated wood include:

• It’s fungal resistant. 
• It’s insect resistant.
• It’s fire resistant.
• It comes in a variety of shapes and sizes.
• It’s affordable.
• It’s durable and easy to use.

It can be, but by choosing the right wood for your environment and the right fence company to install it, you shouldn’t have to worry. Fencing materials like cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine have either natural or man-made chemicals that repel many wood-destroying insects, and regular maintenance like washing, staining, and sealing will help prevent any sort of pest damage.

Pressure-treated lumber is commonly used for exterior projects, including fences, and it is one of the best options. But just because the wood is treated doesn’t mean it is invincible. The preservatives added to treated lumber provide resistance to certain types of decay and slow the process, but they cannot prevent long-term damage caused by constant exposure to moisture and direct sunlight.

An average wood fence can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years, depending on the quality of the installation, type of wood, and how well it's maintained. If the wood has been treated properly and installed by professional fence builders, the lifespan of the fence will greatly increase. You can expect, on average, for treated pine fencing to last up to about 20 years, while cedar may last upwards of 40 years!

The best fence, in terms of longevity, would utilize both cedar and treated pine. Cedar will remain in good condition, last longer, and require less maintenance than pine as long as it stays above ground, as most fence pickets and rails do. Pressure-treated pine is less likely to decay if planted in soil, so it’s recommended to use treated pine for posts.

Any wood, even treated wood, will eventually dry out, crack, and turn gray if left exposed to the natural elements. A stain, sealer, or paint will help seal out the moisture to prevent rotting and slow the weathering process, ultimately extending the life of the fence. Choose a stain or sealant with a UV inhibitor to help keep the wood from turning gray. After installation, it’s a good idea to let the wood dry for about a week before applying a stain or sealant.

Pressure-treating is a process in which a solution of water and preservative agents is infused into the wood under high pressure. This allows the solution to penetrate deep into the wood and help protect the lumber and extend its lifespan.

The active ingredients commonly used in treated wood are alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ), copper azole (CA), or micronized copper azole (MCA). These compounds react with the wood fibers to slow natural decay and have properties to resist termites, fungus, moisture, and other elements that promote rot and cause structural decay.

Decks and fences are the most common uses for treated wood but it is ideal for a variety of applications. Pressure-treated decking boards can extend the longevity of wooden walkways, freshwater docks, accessibility ramps, and other outdoor structures that are exposed to the elements. Other uses for treated wood include raised garden beds, stair stringers, wooden swing sets, pergolas, and arbors. Pressure-treated wood should not be used for any indoor applications.

Before you paint or stain treated lumber make sure the wood has properly dried out, to test this you can sprinkle some water onto the lumber. If it absorbs into the wood, then you are ready for paint and stain. If not wait a few more days and try again. Once the wood is dry you are safe to apply the stain or paint to the treated wood fence.