The average lifespan of a wood fence is approximately 20 years. This number can increase or decrease depending on maintenance, climate, and the type and quality of wood.
Today, Top Rail Fence is answering the question, “How long does a wood fence last?” with a breakdown of everything impacting your fence. We’ll also go over fixes to common problems.
Factors that impact how long a wood fence lasts
If 20 years is the average, it means that some wood fences last 10 years, while others last 30 or even 40 years. Here’s why that is.
The type of wood
Fences made from cedar or redwood can last far longer than 20 years. Cedar’s natural oils resist rot and pests, and redwood is one of the strongest woods used today. Cedar and redwood do not swell or warp as easily as some other woods. One of the main drawbacks is that both are more expensive than pressure-treated pine.
Treated pine is the most popular wood fencing material because it balances budget-friendliness and durability. It’s also the most widely available. Residential fences made from this wood can last around 20 years with proper maintenance.
What many long-lasting wood fences have in common is pressure treatment. Chemical preservatives penetrate wood and become part of its cellular structure. The process can double the lifespan of any wood.
Bottom line: No matter the type of wood, choose pressure-treated. Learn more on the best types of wood fence materials.
The purpose of the fence
Consider the same wood fence, in the same town, but on two different properties. The first property is a home in a residential neighborhood inhabited by a family of four and their dog. The second is a farm with a large volume of livestock.
The residential fence is more likely to exceed the 20-year mark due to less traffic and the smaller size. The farm fence will experience more wear and tear during its lifespan due to heavy use and a larger perimeter that requires more upkeep.
Bottom line: Highly trafficked properties impact how long wood fencing lasts.
Installation methods and experience
You can buy a top-of-the-line treated cedar fence and still see it cave in a decade due to poor construction, installation, or cheap fasteners. The framing, posts, and hardware holding the entire structure together matter just as much as the wood.
A stable fence is level with posts installed at the appropriate depth based on fence type, materials, and the environment.
Bottom line: High-quality professional installation is the best investment in the lifespan of a wood fence.
Environment
Humidity can play a key factor in how long a wood fence lasts. A wood fence in a humid area that receives a lot of rainfall typically has a shorter lifespan than one in a less humid climate.
Even drier environments come with challenges. Woods like cedar can be prone to drying out, but more importantly, dry air affects soil quality. This is another area where professional installation matters. The proper post depth and the right setting method can prevent premature damage due to environmental incompatibility.
Bottom line: All environmental characteristics, from temperature to moisture, affect a wood fence.
Maintenance
All wood fences require maintenance. Their useful life can be cut in half without sealing out moisture, re-tightening hardware, and repairing damage on schedule.
Bottom line: Read our wood fence maintenance tips for a scheduled list of tasks.
Common problems with wood fences and how to fix them
If your fence is damaged or aging, it may be time to replace it. Until then, try these solutions to common problems with wood fences.
|
Problem |
Solution |
|
Parts of the wood fence have rotted or are decaying. |
This is common with excess moisture and poor maintenance. You must replace boards with signs of rot. From there, see if you can improve drainage in the area and apply a sealant. |
|
The wooden fence is fading or has areas of discoloration. |
Fading and discoloration are normal signs of high UV exposure. Use a UV-resisting sealant and stain in one to restore the look of a wood fence and protect it from harsh sunlight. |
|
One or more of the posts are damaged. |
Posts are the most critical part of a fence’s structure. Replace any posts that have been compromised by age, rot, or pests. |
| There’s mold or mildew on the wood. |
First, ensure good drainage. Poorly installed fences can lead to this issue. From there, clean the affected areas with a stiff brush and diluted bleach solution. Follow up with a sealant that offers better moisture protection. |
| A sagging or leaning wood fence. |
Check the posts first to see if any of them need realignment or replacement. Inspect the boards adjacent to the posts and make sure they’re secure. If the weight distribution is off and the fence is at risk of collapsing, consider consulting a professional for advice. |
Ask an expert at Top Rail Fence
How long does a wood fence last? It depends on what you invest in it. That includes money when you choose stronger, higher-end wood, or time spent maintaining wood fencing with repairs and re-sealing. Either investment can easily bring you to the 20-year mark. Looking to compare wood fencing against Chain link? Check out this post.
If you want to see what options are available to you, contact Top Rail for a free estimate.
Wood fence FAQ
How do I keep my wood fence from rotting?
First, choose pressure-treated wood. Pressure-treating forces preservatives into the cells of the wood, enhancing rot resistance.
You should also stain and seal your wood fence every 4-6 years with products formulated to repel moisture.
Should a wooden fence touch the ground?
Generally speaking, no. Wooden fences last longer with some ground clearance to act as drainage and accommodate shifting soil.
How long will an untreated wood fence last?
Using untreated wood can cut the lifespan of a fence in half.
For example, treated cedar is known to last at least 30 years. Left untreated in a wet environment, it can rot away in 15. Untreated pine or spruce may only last three to five years.
Does painting a wood fence make it last longer?
Painting a wood fence will only help it last longer if the paint has UV and moisture-resistant properties. Choosing a quality exterior paint can help customize the look of a wood fence and conceal signs of age.
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