If you're one of the many homeowners choosing to install a wooden garden fence, you have an extensive array of choices that should give you years of usefulness and beauty. It's easy to decide on installing a wooden fence—the challenge lies in picking the right type that meets your particular needs and preferences.

How can you be certain that the type of wood fencing you select is appropriate for your weather conditions, neighborhood, and landscaping when there are so many options? Fret not, because there are plenty of tips and tricks you can use to give you a head start.

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How to choose the right wood fence

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Wooden garden fencing can be used for various practical purposes, including protecting privacy, safely containing children and pets, reducing wind and noise, and preventing unattended swimming pool dips. A home's curb appeal is enhanced by the right wood fence type, which can create a strong aesthetic statement.

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To help you choose the right type of garden wooden fencing, here are some factors to consider:

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1. Longevity

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Wooden fences have a lifespan of 10 to 30 years. The type of wood used to construct your fence, such as pressure-treated lumber, which is believed to have the greatest lifespan, will largely determine how long it will endure. Pine is often used since it is affordable and long-lasting. Because it's soft and flexible, it is easy to work with and it resists shrinking.

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Ensure your wooden fence is resistant to insects and the environment where you live. This quality makes it last at least ten years. Your choice of the best type of wood fencing must take into account the weather your fence will have to endure. Will the fact that your fence is near a building protect it from the elements? Or will the fence be the one to bear the weight of the weather?

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Insect infestations might be more severe on some types of wood than others. Cedar, for example, has natural tannins that keep insects away. To keep the pests away and lengthen the lifespan of your fence, choose pressure-treated wood if you opt for materials devoid of these natural tannins.

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2. Purpose of the wood fence

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Consider your intended purpose before installing a wooden fence. Do you want one for security, aesthetics, privacy, or sound reduction? Where you plan on putting the fence will also affect your decision. If it's for a garden, a wood picket fence or wood lattice fence would be perfect. If you aim to provide a pool enclosure, the louver or wood lattice fence are some of the best choices.

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The purpose will also help you determine the right fence height. For instance, if you simply want to distinguish your garden from your neighbors, having a 3-foot-high fence would suffice. But then, if the purpose is to have maximum privacy and seclusion, at least 6 to 8 feet tall will be ideal for your garden wooden fencing panels. This height should work in keeping animals and burglars off your property.

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You also need to take note of your homeowner association’s (HOA) regulations in case a particular fencing height restriction is imposed in your neighborhood. Make sure you're aware of the rules before installing the fence so you won't need to modify or rebuild it.

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3. Your house's style and architecture

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Although the purpose of your wood fence is critical when choosing one, you also shouldn't discard the consideration of your house's design, style, and architecture. This factor will help you choose from the different wooden garden fencing ideas, particularly when selecting the perfect picket arrangement and board styles.

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Fence designs range widely; in the end, the pattern and specifics are up to you. Suppose your property is from the early American period. In that case, you can consider the stockade picket arrangement that lends a classic New England look with its wooden garden fence panels that consist of thinner 3-inch pickets closely spaced and butted together.

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If you want to add a rustic accent to your estate, you can go with the round post and rail picket arrangement that gives your landscape a consistent, rustic appearance.

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4. Maintenance

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When choosing the best type of wood fencing, maintenance may be the last thing on your mind. But to keep it looking beautiful and lasting longer, wood fencing needs upkeep. You can choose the type of wood more wisely if you are aware of what to anticipate in terms of future care and maintenance.

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Wooden garden gates and fencing will need staining and painting every two to three years. Pine wood can last up to 20 years if regularly treated and maintained. Although this material is less expensive, yearly maintenance is necessary to keep it durable and aesthetically appealing. Redwood wooden garden fencing panels may be costlier, but it's naturally insect and rot-resistant, so maintenance won't be that often and can last up to 40 years if treated.  

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Final words

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As you can see, there are several factors you need to consider when choosing the right wood fence for your property. Aside from these tips, you can also ask a local fencing company to help you answer your questions. With the proper knowledge, you can be more confident and more prepared when making a decision.  

References:

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“8 Wood Fence Styles”, Source: https://www.thisoldhouse.com/fences/21017711/all-about-wood-fences

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“5 Tips For Choosing A Wooden Fence For Your Backyard”, Source: https://www.mystatemls.com/blog/client_resources

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“Choose the Right Style of Wood Fence for Your Home”, Source: https://extremehowto.com/choose-the-right-style-of-wood-fence

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