Q: Should I use Western Red Cedar or pressure treated pine for my fence or deck?
A: Western Red Cedar is a great wood for any application. Cedar is not only more aesthetically pleasing than pressure treated pine, but it also has a natural resistance to pests like termites and resists rotting from exposure to moisture. Rotting will still occur over time unless the wood is stained. That being said, cedar doesn't need treatment from harsh chemicals to make it last for years. The chemicals used on pressure treated pine wash off over time, seeping into the surrounding soil and bodies of water. This poses several environmental and health hazards. Cedar keeps its shape much better than pine, which has a tendency to warp and twist as the treated lumber dries out. Pine splits easily when nailed or screwed down and cannot be stained until it has fully dried. Cedar is ready to stain right away, which is a great option to extend the longevity of your fence or deck.
Q: Should I use nails or screws to attach my deck boards to the frame?
A: Deck boards should always be screwed down to the frame using coated screws. Nails simply don't do the job as well. Over time moisture can make the deck boards swell and contract, gradually loosening the nails which can result in deck boards popping up and warping. This might make one think that screws are a good option for fencing, too. This is not the case. The thinner picket size cannot take the stress of a screw without splitting! Fencing nails have a ring shank that holds the pickets snugly in place.
Q: Is there any difference between using 5/4"x6" or 2"x6" deck boards?
A: Yes! 5/4 inch decking is much thinner and much more likely to warp or twist over time. These boards tend to curl up on the ends. If the deck boards cup upwards they will hold water when it rains. This collection of water will result in excess moisture seeping in to the wood and rotting it away faster. We strongly recommend spending a few extra bucks to install the 2x6 deck boards in order to prevent this kind of wear. Also, 2x6 decking gives a much stronger look to your deck and won't sag between joists.
Q: What type of lumber should I use for the posts & rails on my fence?
A: We've replaced many fences - most of which should have been too new to be replaced. Many of those fences were built using cedar 2x4's for the rails, we prefer and build rails using pressure treated pine. We have found that many fences built with cedar rails that are not stained have issues with rotting! Water collects on the tops of the rails and soaks into them. This results in the rails being unable to hold the nails, making it easier for the fence boards to fall off. However, cedar rails are a durable option if you plan on staining your fence. When it comes to the posts, all fences should be constructed using pressure treated 4x4 posts or galvanized steel posts. Cedar is not biologically fit for ground contact situations. Cedar posts will rot very quickly because of the high amount of moisture exposure from the soil. This is even more likely to happen when set in concrete which will hold the moisture against the post. Putting a couple inches of gravel or pebbles at the bottom of the post hole can help the moisture drain down away from the posts if cedar is your only option..
Q: What if I have dogs? Is there some way to keep them in my yard while my fence is down?
A: If requested we can put up a temporary barrier that can keep small dogs from getting out of your yard. Luckily, most fence projects can be completed in 2 to 3 days to minimize any inconveniences caused by having your fence down.