How long can you expect a wood fence to last? It all depends.
Wood is perhaps the most popular fencing material in the country. It is the only natural material on the market, and one can choose between different wood species. The quality of the lumber can also differ. With multiple factors in what makes a wood fence great, one can expect different outcomes for the longevity of a wood fence. Before building yours, here’s what to expect for your wood fence’s life expectancy and how you can prolong it.
Average Lifespan of a Wood Fence
The average lifespan of a wood fence depends on the species and the grade. Not all woods are created equal. Here are a few differences to expect depending on the species:
- Pressure-treated lumber: Pressure-treated lumber, or pressure-treated pine, has preservative chemicals infused into the wood so it can last for many years. On average, this type of lumber can last between 15-20 years.
- Cedar: Cedar is known for its natural longevity. Unlike other species, it has a natural resin that repels insects and is rot-resistant. However, cedar is a softwood and needs care. On average, a cedar fence can last up to 30 years.
- Exotic woods: Ipe, mahogany, and tigerwood are just a few exotic woods to be found. They are all hardwoods, and are so difficult to drill or nail through that holes are pre-drilled. With proper care, exotic wood fences can remain intact for 50-75 years.
The grade of lumber you choose also matters. The higher the grade, the fewer defects the wood has. For the average homeowner, it is better to choose an average or higher grade. Mid-Atlantic Deck & Fence can answer your questions regarding wood grade.
How to Lengthen Your Fence’s Lifespan
Your wood fence’s life expectancy doesn’t have to follow the norm. You can extend the lifespan of your wood fence by practicing specific maintenance tasks as needed:
- Clean the fence: Over time, the fence will get dirty. It can also develop mildew and mold from Maryland’s humid climate. One will need to wash down the fence annually and treat as needed.
- Inspect the fence: Once a year, you can inspect the fence for loose or missing nails, rotting wood, or any other issues. Taking care of the little things can help you avoid a major repair.
- Stain/seal the fence: Wood fences need restaining every few years to refresh their color. A sealer will coat the outside to protect it from insects and the weather.
Call Mid-Atlantic Deck & Fence For Your New Deck or Fence!
Mid-Atlantic Deck & Fence has almost 30 years of experience in building beautiful custom fences, gazebos, screened-in porches, and decks throughout the state of Maryland. We have the expertise to design your dream fence or custom deck and have it installed in a headache-free process. Give us a call at 1-800-833-9310 or visit us online for a quote today! We offer many different styles of fencing and decking, in addition to custom options designed specifically to suit your preferences and tastes. To see examples of our work and get more tips on how to choose the right decking for your family, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Houzz, Pinterest, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
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