Wood fence installation Richmond Hill, ON

With the introduction of “newer” fence materials like vinyl and composite, you’d expect the interest in wood fencing to wane. That hasn’t been the case, as the popularity for this natural, eco-friendly fencing material is still at an all-time high.

Now, it’s not without its drawbacks - they’re generally not as durable as vinyl or composite, they’re fussier and harder to maintain and clean and there’s a risk for insect infestation. But you can’t argue with their unparalleled beauty, its versatility (can be used as security fencing, privacy fencing, pool enclosure, a barrier to keep pets in, and a ton of other uses), and its earth-friendly properties.

Some of the drawbacks can be somewhat mitigated. For example, if you opt for the hardy cedar fencing or pressure-treated fencing made of pine boards, you’re making the decision to increase its longevity and reduce the likelihood of pest infestation and rot. No matter what wood species is selected, the posts are usually made of soil-resistant pine.

Here’s a quick refresher of the fence anatomy: you have the fence pickets, planks or boards, then the posts that are spaced at regular intervals and sandwich the pickets (often you have to decide between 4x4 posts or 6x6 posts), there’s the rail, usually the horizontal support system for the pickets, boards or lattice panels, and then finally the cap, which as the name implies, caps off the fence post.

Other decisions that will be made are the height of the wooden fence. Is this for privacy and demarcating your and a neighbour’s yard? Then you’re probably looking at a 6 ft height. Is it for a front yard to keep kids and animals in? Then you’re looking at a 4 ft height. If any of these decisions are making your head swim, don’t fret. Richmond Hill Fence has been doing wood fence installation projects for many years, and although there is much room for customization, we will offer our advice for the best choices given your individual situation. What does that mean exactly? Well, we’ll look at your budget, your space, the desired use and other considerations you might not have thought of, and we’ll offer suggestions based on our experience, best practices and the client’s preference.

Here are some frequently asked questions in regards to wood fencing:

Q: How do I maintain and clean a wood fence?

A: If it was a recent fence installation, you may just need a soft brush for spot cleaning, or cleaning of the full planks. However, if it’s been many years and you need a thorough cleaning, consider pressure washing. This is not without a caveat, however, as an improper pressure wash can potentially damage the boards if it’s done at too close a range or the pressure is set too high. So if in doubt, you may need to consult with a professional pressure washer.

Q: When will I need to repair my fence?

A: If you see broken boards, damaged posts or nails, or evidence of insect infestation, it’s time to call a pro for a fence replacement or repair. Richmond Hill Fence is skilled not only at erecting fences, but also in fence repairs.

So if you’ve made the decision to get wooden fencing, congratulations! You’ve made an earth-friendly choice of a fence material that will add character, beauty and functionality to your space. We at Richmond Hill Fence are excited about the opportunity to be part of your journey to create a beautiful enclosure for your home or business. Contact us today for a no-obligation quote, and we hope to work with you soon.