The saying is true–good fences make good neighbors. FenceWorks NW is in the business of helping our customers be the best neighbors possible. If you’ve decided to install a new fence in Clark County or replace an old one, it’s important to choose long-lasting materials built to withstand the damp climate known to cause dry rot and wreak havoc on timber.
In the Northwest, the two most common fence posts are pressure-treated posts and galvanized posts. To help you choose the right option for you, keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of each type of post.
First things first, let’s define pressure-treated posts. To create wood that is protected from wood rot and insects, lumber is placed in a depressurized holding tank that replaces excess air with a solution of water and chemical preservatives with proven protective qualities. In 2004 EPA regulations removed arsenic from the recipe, replacing it with copper azole. This treatment does add years of protection for the posts, but they do not last quite as long as they used to.
While this treatment does not eliminate the potential for wear and tear or corrosion from the elements over time, a pressure-treated post will last far longer than traditional wooden posts. If installed directly into the soil, you can expect a pressure-treated post to last approximately seven years. Installed into a concrete base, a pressure-treated post can last 20+ years. Unlike most companies, FenceWorks NW meticulously hand-trowels every footing, bringing the concrete above grade. This extra step protects your investment and minimizes exposure to dirt that will prematurely rot your fence.
Pressure-treated lumber, while more expensive than natural wood, is less expensive than aluminum, steel, or other building materials. Pressure-treated lumber is also much easier to customize–whatever your fence height or style, we can easily cut the post to suit your needs. Some styles of fencing work much better with pressure treated posts vs steel. This is a discussion we are happy to cover at the time of your free estimate.
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It seems like an easy decision when you compare pressure-treated wood and steel fence posts. However, the winner when comparing pressure-treated wood and galvanized steel isn’t as clearly defined.
The process of galvanizing steel involves applying a zinc coating to steel, effectively protecting the metal from rust, acid, or erosion. Most galvanized steel posts are created using the hot-dip method, where posts are dipped into molten zinc. Steel that has undergone this process is easily identified by the crystalline pattern of the posts, often referred to as spangle.
There are 4 common options for steel posts; square, round, c-post & post masters (flange style) We help you decide which is best for your style of fence.
When comparing fence post lifespans, the life of a galvanized steel post far outlasts its treated wooden counterpart. In some cases, galvanized steel fence posts can last 50 -70 years with little to no maintenance. The galvanized coating protects the steel underneath, as the elements must first destroy the zinc coating before compromising the strength of the metal. If strength is a concern, steel is virtually indestructible. The metal is fireproof and stable when faced with high winds.
The quality of galvanized steel comes with a heftier price tag than a pressure-treated wood post. Keep in mind, though, that galvanized steel will last two to three times longer than a pressure-treated wood post. When you complete a yearly cost breakdown, galvanized steel comes out ahead. Also remember, a strong fence post strengthens the entire fence. When you choose galvanized steel posts, you minimize the likelihood of incurring fence damage after big storms.
As you make the decision whether to select galvanized steel posts or pressure-treated wooden posts, the choice is largely based on budget. If you need a fence now, but you’re not ready to invest in a solution for the next 50 -70 years, a fence with pressure-treated wooden posts is your best option. If you prefer a low-maintenance solution that will last a lifetime, galvanized steel posts are the ultimate choice for your Clark County fence.
We offer free consultations and estimates, so you can weigh your options and choose the fence post solution that’s right for your yard and your budget. No matter what you choose, you can be sure that FenceWorks NW’s high-quality materials and expert workmanship will result in a long-lasting fence you’ll love.
Choosing fence materials, colors and designs are just a part of finding the perfect fence to suit your security and aesthetic requirements. Two of the most important factors during your search for your perfect fence should be durability and longevity.
Although the style of your home, climate of your area and purpose of the fence play a large role in selecting the right fence material, it’s best to understand what differentiates one fence material from another so you can pick the highest quality fence for your needs.
The most commonly used wood types for fences are spruce, cedar and pine, so the longevity of your fence naturally depends on the type of wood it’s made from. Cedar may last for 15-30 years, spruce may last for 4-7 years and pine may last for 5-12 years.
Treated wood, however, increases this longevity: pine and spruce may last for 20 years and cedar may last up to 40 years. Keep in mind that one of the biggest culprits to diminishing your fence’s longevity is moisture. If one of your fence panels or pickets touches the ground, they’ll be affected by moisture, which can reduce the life by up to three years. You can avoid this by ensuring that the posts are treated or stained and have concrete or gravel filler in their post holes to keep out moisture.
Another thing to keep in mind with wood fences is the maintenance—you need to regularly maintain your fence to keep it from aging. Stain and paint your fence, then re-stain every two years and paint every four years.
Metal fences are the sturdy option that comes in three types: chain link, wrought iron or aluminum. Chain-link is the most inexpensive and long-lasting, although it does provide a more industrial look (not the best for those who want a more decorative aesthetic).
If you do seek a more decorative look and want a metal fence, opt for wrought iron. Wrought iron and aluminum fences combine beauty and strength and can be shaped into unique designs. You can also odd ornamental applications and other fence accessories for artistic embellishments while still enjoying the durability of a metal fence.
As far as maintenance goes, wrought-iron requires a rust-resistant finish every few years to avoid corrosion.
Vinyl fences or PVC fences are quickly growing in popularity. They are durable and relatively maintenance-free—just hose it off with some water. While color options are limited, vinyl fences are available in a wide range of styles including picket, lattice, privacy, and even split-rail.
Vinyl fences require little maintenance and are highly durable which allows them to last for 20 or more years with proper care. In fact, the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors places the lifespan estimate of polyvinyl , but that would be assuming it doesn’t get damaged in the meantime. Some tips for extending the lifespan of your vinyl fence can be found here.
One reason why it’s easy for vinyl fences to last longer than wood is due to the fact that they don’t decay. While wood can start rotting if it’s not regularly retreated, vinyl does not, meaning it can easily last for decades, especially if you take care to protect it from damage.
modern vinyl fences are made using titanium oxide to protect them from UV rays, making them more resistant to sunlight. Modern vinyl is also a durable material made of high-tech polyvinyl, meaning it tends to resist damage better than wood, making it great for pet owners or families with children.
Chain-link fences with a galvanized finish that doesn’t rust are the longest lasting fences. All other components of the fence are made of steel and are also galvanized, so there is relatively no maintenance. Even the American Fence Association agrees, finding that chain-link fences are economical and secure.
Chain link comes in a variety of vinyl-coated options aside from durability, chain-link fences can also be customizable without losing the homeowner’s visibility.
A well-built and maintained fence should last for 15 to 20 years with proper care.
The most durable fence is the one that is properly built and maintained! That aside, iron, aluminum, cedar, and vinyl fences tend to be the most durable.
Yes. Staining a fence protects it against water damage, rot, insects, and day to day wear and tear.
Fence posts, like your fence, should last for 15 to 20 years if properly installed and maintained.
It depends on how well each is maintained. Treated wooden fences can last a long time, but only if they are kept protected from moisture and bugs. Vinyl, however, requires much less maintenance, so it can easily last 20 years or more with minimal care.
It depends on the quality of the fence, but modern vinyl fencing materials have five times the tensile strength of wood, so it’s comparatively difficult to break.
When trying to decide the type of materials you want to use to build your fence, do your research or consult our professionals at Buzz Custom Fence to help you find the right fence for you!
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