HARDWOODS AND SOFTWOODS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TIMBER FENCING
, by Harry Sandhu, 2 min reading time
1. What is Timber fencing?
Timber fencing is a type of fence made primarily from wood, commonly used for privacy,
security, and decorative purposes. Timber fences are durable, customizable, and can be
treated to withstand weather conditions, pests, and decay. They are often painted or stained
to enhance their appearance and longevity, making them a popular choice for both residential
and rural properties.
TYPES-
HARDWOODS-
Hardwoods come from deciduous trees (those that lose their leaves in autumn)
For example- Blue gum, Mixed Hardwood Materials.
SOFTWOODS-
Softwoods come from coniferous trees (those that have needles and cones)
For example- Treated pine, Cypress Materials.
-Choosing right type of timber for your fence.
(i) Hardwoods are ideal for posts and rails due to their strength, durability, resistance to wear,
rot, and pests, and long lifespan, making them reliable and aesthetically appealing for outdoor use.
(ii) Victorian cypress is considered one of the best softwoods due to its durability, resistance to
decay, stability, and natural termite resistance, making it ideal for outdoor use with low maintenance.
(iii) Queensland cypress pine is perfect for timber gates due to its strength, durability, and
natural resistance to termites and rot, ensuring long-lasting, low-maintenance performance.
-Benefits of using timber for fencing.
1. Can last for many years when properly treated and maintained.
2. Easy to customize in different styles, sizes, and designs.
3. Provides a solid barrier, ensuring privacy and protection.
4. Timber is a renewable resource and biodegradable.
5. With proper treatment, timber can withstand various weather conditions.
-Factors to consider when selecting timber fencing materials.
1. Identifying the ideal wood type.
2. Accounting the climate and weather resistance.
3. Pondering on the maintenance needs.
4. Reviewing the environmental impact.
5. Examining the privacy and security.
-Questions we often get:
1. What is the cheapest timber to use for a fence?
- Treated pine, is the cheapest for fencing due to its use of affordable pine, mass production, and
protective chemical treatment.
2. What is the most durable type of wood fence that lasts the longest?
- Hardwoods usually last between 25 to 40 years due to their density and natural resistance, while
Softwoods typically last 10 to 20 years because they are more vulnerable to weathering and decay.
3. What are the best low maintenance woods for fencing?
- Treated Pine, as they are chemically treated to resist rot, insects, and decay, offering durability with minimal maintenance.
-Hardwoods, as they are already dense, durable, and naturally resistant to wear pests, and rot, requiring minimal maintenance.
