Fences play a crucial role in style and privacy. Canadian law sets limits on fence height, with regulations varying by municipality. On average, front yard fences are capped at 4 feet, while side and backyard fences can reach up to 6.5 feet. While these heights may not provide substantial security, they offer privacy and peace of mind.
Wood lumber has long been the preferred material for fences in Canada, and it is valued for its natural look and texture, which metal or vinyl can’t quite match. However, not all wood is created equal when it comes to using it for fencing. Choosing the right type of wood that balances durability and cost is important.
In this article, we’ll explore the TOP 4 types of wood best for outdoor fences, offering the best blend of quality and affordability.
Cedar
Cedar is a solid choice for a straightforward, no-frills fence. It’s the go-to option if you’re looking for a basic, reliable fence that strikes a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness.
In terms of longevity, a cedar fence typically lasts between 15 to 20 years, but it does require regular maintenance. To keep your fence looking its best and to prevent it from turning grey, you’ll need to periodically apply stain or paint.
When choosing the best wood for building your privacy fence, it’s important to consider its resistance to weather and pests. Cedar has some natural defences due to its oils, which help repel insects. However, harsh elements like the sun, hail, heavy rain, and freezing temperatures can take a toll. While some recommend using acrylic coatings for added protection, these can mask the wood’s natural beauty and give it an artificial appearance. Using stain is a better option if you want to maintain cedar’s natural look, though you’ll need to reapply it every 2-3 years to keep the wood in good shape.
While cedar does have some natural durability, it’s important to remember that it’s a softwood. Even with proper care, your fencing might start showing signs of wear and tear halfway through its lifespan, potentially looking worn out by the end of its 15-20 year life, despite regular maintenance.
Mahogany
Mahogany is an excellent choice for those willing to invest in a premium fencing material. This wood offers unparalleled beauty, with its rich textures and deep, luxurious color, along with excellent natural resistance to pests and rot.
However, one drawback is mahogany’s sensitivity to temperature fluctuations. While it can endure extreme cold and heat, rapid changes in temperature during the day can reduce its lifespan from an impressive 40 years down to around 20 years.
Mahogany is often seen as a symbol of luxury, but its cost has become increasingly steep. Additionally, despite its elite status, mahogany requires maintenance. Due to its sensitivity to temperature changes, it’s recommended to treat the wood with a stain to help preserve its longevity.
IPE
When it comes to fencing, IPE lumber isn’t just great – it’s perfect. This hardwood stands out for its incredible resistance to virtually everything: fungus, pests, rot, extreme weather, and even mechanical damage. With IPE, you’re looking at a fence that can last 40+ years with no maintenance required. If you do perform regular upkeep, the lifespan can extend to a full century.
Aesthetically, IPE surpasses even mahogany for many people. The depth and richness of its appearance are simply captivating, embodying a sense of modern luxury that feels more contemporary than the classic, but sometimes dated, elegance of mahogany.
While we could go on about its many advantages, you might be worried about the cost. But here’s some good news – IPE is actually 30-40% cheaper than mahogany, making it an ideal option for fences. It’s no wonder that IPE is the top choice for architects and builders in a wide range of commercial projects, including fencing.
Balau Batu and Bangkirai
For those who find the cost of IPE beyond their budget and the drawbacks of Cedar unacceptable, there’s an excellent middle-ground option: exotic Balau Batu wood and Bangkirai. Balau, also a hardwood, offers impressive resistance to the elements, pests, and rot. While it may fall short of IPE in durability, it’s only by about 15%, making it a very robust alternative.
Aesthetically, Balau strikes a balance between the simplicity of Cedar, the nobility of Mahogany, and the refinement of IPE. It doesn’t have the same enchanting depth as IPE, but it offers clear, expressive lines without the imperfections, like knots, found in simpler woods. Balau presents a sophisticated look that’s neither too plain nor overly ornate – truly the “golden mean” of fence woods.
For your fence, you can choose between Red Balau Batu and Bangkirai. Now, here’s the real surprise: all these benefits come at a price point similar to Cedar, but with far greater advantages. This makes Balau an exceptional value, providing high-end qualities without the premium cost.
Contact us for more information of to order IPE, Red Balau Batu or Bangkirai!
