What is the Best Timber for Fencing?
The best types of timber for fencing are hardwood and softwood. Hardwood, like Merbau, is expensive but durable and naturally resistant to decay or insects. On the other hand, softwood, like treated pine, is more affordable but equally durable.
Choosing the timber for your fencing needs is not limited to the type of wood to use, though. You have to balance this with the types of fencing and other factors like weather, design, and budget.
Let’s discuss these further so you know you’re getting the best timber.
Best Types of Timber for Fencing
Timber is generally durable, timeless, and attractive, making it ideal for fencing. However, there are so many timber options that choosing the best one can be challenging.
To help, here are the two common types of timber to choose from.
1. Hardwood
Some examples of hardwood for fencing in Australia are Blackbutt, Merbau, and Ironbark.
People choose it for fencing because of its lasting strength, natural resistance to decay or pests, and low maintenance needs.
However, one of the downsides of hardwood is cost. Deciduous trees take a long time to grow before they are ready to harvest. Moreover, they are heavy, making them difficult to work with and install.
All these factors make hardwood expensive. Nonetheless, it’s an excellent option if you plan to:
- Build a long-lived fence. Hardwood is very durable and withstands outdoor elements. It’s the ideal option if your goal for fencing is privacy and security. While it has a higher upfront cost, it will take years for weathering problems, like chipping and bowing, to appear.
- Reinforce your paling fence. Posts and rails are frame parts that hold the entire timber fence. That means these components should use heavy-duty materials, like hardwood. Hardwood posts and rails also make softwood paling fences more stable and long-lasting.
- Create a fence for aesthetic appeal. Hardwood is a favourite choice for fence palings because of its distinct dark colour and eye-catching woodgrain patterns. Also, because of its natural resistance to decay and insects, your fence stays attractive for a long time.
Overall, hardwood is the premium choice for fencing that balances durability and design requirements.
2. Softwood
Cypress pine, cedar, and redwood are some examples of softwood for fencing.
People choose it for building fences mainly because of its versatility and cost-efficiency.
Coniferous trees produce softer wood that is easy to use for other projects besides fencing. Moreover, these trees grow faster than their deciduous counterparts, which explains why they are relatively more affordable.
They are not as durable or decay-resistant as hardwood, though.
However, once treated, softwood gets improved endurance and requires less maintenance for many years. Treatment also makes this timber type moisture-resistant and weatherproof.
Go for softwood if you plan to:
- Build a cost-effective fence. If a strong and lasting timber fence is not your priority, a softwood one is a better alternative. Softwood fencing will still give you the same protective and aesthetic benefits at a more budget-friendly price.
- Own a fence that offers more styling options. Softwood is lighter in colour than hardwood, which makes it easier to stain or paint. Pine fencing, for instance, is a favourite among Australian homeowners because its lighter wood style instantly adds rustic charm. Cedar comes in various colours, making it adaptable to your architecture or landscaping.
Other Considerations When Choosing the Best Timber for Fencing
Before making your final timber choice for fencing, be sure to ask yourself these questions:
- Do you live in an area with a drier or wetter climate?
Remember that the lifespan of timber depends on the weather conditions. So, choose timber with proper treatment to withstand weather changes better. Tropical hardwood, cedar, cypress, and redwood are also good options because of their natural resistance.
- How much is your budget for the fencing project?
Balance your budget with the type of fencing you need. For example, invest in premium timber if you need a lasting fence. However, if you’re not planning to stay in your current home for years, a strong but more affordable lumber is more economical.
- Are you living in an area with insect problems?
Termite infestation, for example, is a crucial factor when choosing your timber for fencing. Consider using wood that naturally repels this insect, like redwood. Alternatively, use wood with proper insect treatment.
Our comprehensive guide on choosing the correct timber for fencing has more helpful details.
Ask a Timber Specialist for Your Fencing Needs
It’s good to be familiar with the different types of timber for fencing. That way, you’ll know which one suits your requirements and budget.
However, if you need more help, we highly recommend consulting a timber fencing expert. Call the That’s Fencing team on 0452 280 559 so we can help you assess and find the appropriate timber for the job.
You may also fill out our contact form for a no-obligation, free quote.