Wooden Fencing:
What’s Better for Your Home – Treated or Untreated?
Certainly, every fencing company will have all those good reasons to make you buy their wood, whether treated or untreated. Undoubtedly, wood fences are a smart choice for every home. But, have you decided on what type of wooden fence will add to the beauty of your home, and not be a pain in the neck to manage?
Wooden fences are a great choice for any home, especially for those who are seeking an environment-friendly and cost-effective fencing option that blends perfectly into virtually any setting. And, if maintained properly, it can last for decades. But, then you always have to decide which type suits you the best - treated or untreated.
Treated Vs. Untreated Wood
So, What’s the Major Difference?
One of the major differences between treated and untreated wood is the use of chemicals. While treated wood is steeped in chemicals, untreated wood is untouched. The chemicals are applied to the wood to protect it from all the possible damages.
Which is Better: Treated or Untreated?
Well, that actually depends on how you plan to use it. When it comes to buying something that lasts longer, definitely, treated wood is better than the untreated. Ask any fencing company, and they will tell you which wood is better and why. But, those who don’t have easy access to such information, let us explain it to you here.
Treated Wood lasts Longer than Untreated Wood
The fact that that treated wood last longer, remains unchallenged. Nevertheless, sometimes it may be the demand of the project that even untreated can make a better choice. Generally, most people prefer to use treated wood for their homes or businesses. The reason is the longevity,. Precisely! Especially, when something is to be installed outdoors (fence or roof) that is not going to come into a lot of contact with people, treated wood works well and all but eliminates needed fence repairs.
Treated Wood is Safer!
Call it treated wood or protected wood, the choice is yours. The best sorts of chemicals are applied to the wood during treatments, which secure it against the effect of termites and fungal decay that can otherwise damage the wood. So, in case, you are worried about insects spoiling your wooden fence or roof, treated wood is the best choice for a secure wooden installation.
Withstands Moisture
When it comes into the contact with moisture, wood can be attacked by organisms that cause lethal damage. In such situations, untreated wood will last only a few years; maybe a year or two. On the other hand, when it comes to treated wooden installation at your home, chemical treatment can help it withstand the effects of moisture. So, in case, when you are wood fencing your home, it is better to do it with the treated wood for better results.
Treated wood, therefore, provides many times the life of untreated one.
Especially, when you are about to install a wooden fence at your home or hiring professionals to do so, ask for the treated wood and forget the cost of maintenance and repair almost for decades.
Here are a few bonus tips for those who prefer to install TREATED WOOD themselves:
- Always wear safety goggles and gloves when drilling, sanding, or cutting.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling treated wood.
- Never burn the treated wood.
- Let treated wood dry completely before painting or staining.
- Apply clear wood preservative annually.
- Drill a pilot hole to prevent splitting the wood before driving in a screw or nail.
