Timber Fencing Guides & Resources

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Timber Fence Cost

If you have a large area to have a new fence, consider using hardwood as it's less likely to warp or twist over time and will last longer. The fence cost will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of timber you use (like treated pine timber), the height and width of the fence, and the type of construction required. However, as a general guide, a timber fence costs around $25-$35 per metre, installed. ## What are the different types of timber fences? When you're looking at timber fencing types, there are a few factors to consider. First is the type of timber being used – whether it's softwood, hardwood or treated pine. While softwoods such as spruce and pine are less [expensive than hardwoods](/guides/timber-fencing/treated-pine-vs-hardwood-fence) such as red gum and blackbutt, they also require more maintenance over time because they're not as durable and the fencing cost is not worth it. If you have a large area to have a new fence, consider using hardwood as it's less likely to warp or twist over time and will last longer. Another factor that affects the type of timber fencing used is whether or not the fence is exposed to the elements. If so, be sure to use boards that are rated for exterior use. The most common types of timber fencing are listed below. ### Picket fence These are made up of upright boards, or pickets, which are spaced evenly apart. They're a popular choice for front yards and can be either plain or decorative. It is the easiest timber for the process of timber fence installation. ### Palisade fence These are similar to picket fences, but the pickets are much wider and are spaced further apart. They're perfect for security and privacy, and can also be quite decorative. For this, it is advisable to hire fencing contractors as a fencing contractor or fence builder knows how to do the palisade fences precisely. ### Pine timber slat fence These are constructed from horizontal slats of timber, which gives them a more rustic look. They're perfect for rural properties or gardens with a lot of wildlife. Its fence materials also have pre primed treated pine that is best for colorbond fencing. ### Framed fence These are the most common type of timber fence, and consist of upright boards (pickets) framed by two or three horizontal rails. They come in a variety of styles and can be either plain or decorative. ### Post-and-rail fence These consist of vertical posts with two or three horizontal rails attached. They're perfect for large properties or areas with steep slopes. ### Treated pine timber This is another type of primed treated pine fence that is constructed from different fencing materials and wooden materials. A fencing contractor is recommended to construct these timber fences. If you have an existing fence or brick fence, a timber paling fence is always a better option. ## What is the average cost to install a wood fence? As a guideline, the total cost of fencing can go up to $70- $1000 per metre depending on the materials you choose. You can expect to pay $70 to $150 per metre for a treated pine paling fence, hardwood paling fence is $90 to $240 per metre, $500 to $700 per metre for a wrought iron fence and $900 - $1400 per metre for a sandstone and timber fence. The best thing about treated pine paling fence is that it looks beautiful and lasts for 15 to 20 years. One thing to be remembered is that the fencing cost per metre differs for different region. If you are hiring someone to install your fence, make sure they are licensed, according to the [Queensland Building and Construction Commission](https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/fence). ## What type of timber is best for timber fencing? There are a few things to consider when choosing the type of [timber fencing](/guides/timber-fencing/what-is-timber-fencing) for your place:

What is Timber Fencing?

A timber fence adds a sense of rustic glamour that will transform your garden site into a peaceful retreat. Timber fencing is the most traditional fencing solution on the market. It consists of a series of smooth vertical stakes and rails striped horizontally in different woods and height gaps, which can last up to 30 years if properly maintained. Timber fencing is made up of a series of staggered stakes, which are either smooth or fluted. It's not just about looks, as timber fencing offers so many benefits. It's low maintenance, easy to install in ground and incredibly cost-effective. By choosing an eco-friendly option you'll be doing your bit for the environment too. The timber fence posts structure can easily adapt to any garden design requirement. The paling fences and rails can be built by steel posts and galvanised screws to give more support. Whether straight or curved, its openwork design allows the creation of very good privacy screens without obstructing light contact in interior spaces. Timber provides protection from dampness in basement ground exposed to water seepage from the exterior. If properly treated and oiled, timber fencing will last up to 30 years in an exterior project settings. For a natural-looking garden that evokes that quintessential sense of peace and security, it's hard job to look past a timber fence. They're available in all kinds of finishes including left untreated, brown or green oxide treated or even pressure-treated for extra durability. ## What timber is used for fencing? When it comes to timber fencing, there are two main types of timber that are used, softwood or hardwood. Softwoods are grown in plantations and harvested on a regular basis, which means they're quick-growing and sustainable woods. The most common type of softwood is pine which has a tight grain structure making it very easy to work with. Hardwood grows much slower than softwoods but has a much higher density. Hardwood make an incredibly durable fence panel as the wood is dense, meaning it's highly resistant to insects and rot. Some examples of hardwood timber include oak, ash, walnut and iroko. ## What are the benefits of using timber fencing? The main benefit of using a fence made from timber is that it provides a high standard neat look for your garden while also being incredibly low-preservation. Most styles of wooden fences require very little work to keep them looking their best and last a long time too. They do a great job keeping pets and children from going into neighbours garden which means you don't have to spend hours tidying up after them. Plus, they come in a range of styles from traditional picket fences to more contemporary paling fences, so whatever your garden design is like, you should be able to find a style that suits it perfectly. Picket fencing looks beautiful in domestic property boundaries while paling fencing in residential property boundaries. They're also really easy to install - especially when compared with other types of fencing materials such as brick or concrete or cement which can pose more of a challenge. They require very little work to keep them looking great and last for many years, they're also available in a different range of styles- paling fences or timber fences depending on your preference. ## Which timber is best? The most common type of timber used for fencing is CCA treated pine as this pine and grows quite quickly meaning the supply of fencing products never runs out. Treated pine is very light in weight which makes it easier to handle when installing or carrying around the garden. Pine comes with an attractive grain pattern which gives the timber fence panels its unique look and no extra cost involved, just some little effort required to protect against weather damage. Treated pine posts will not split or crack over time making for a durable fencing option that provides excellent security throughout all seasons. Timber fences are available at [many price points](/guides/timber-fencing/timber-fence-cost). ## How do I choose my timber? There are a few factors to consider when choosing your timber. ### Style Will the fence posts be visible from the house project? Is there anything in the garden property that you want to compliment or contrast with your fence posts? Would you like horizontal or vertical board fences, for example? ## Wood type Softwoods such as CCA treated pine tend to be cheaper but [harder woods](/guides/timber-fencing/treated-pine-vs-hardwood-fence) such as oak may last longer and require less maintenance throughout the years. If budget is an issue, treated pine is a more affordable option but hardwood can add class and style if necessary. ## Are timber fences treated? Most wood will be pressure treated to prevent insect infestation and rot. The type of treatment job varies depending on the construction materials used - for example, treated pine tends to have a brown or green oxide finish while other types such as iroko are oiled instead. This treatment job isn't only essential for ensuring your paling fence rails looks great for years to come, it also prevents damage from UV rays so if your fencing is exposed to sunlight, you'll want it to be treated. Pressure-treating can add a lot of time to the process of making a fence post but is definitely worth considering if you're looking for an exterior-facing ground fence that stands up against harsh weather conditions. ## Are there any styles I can use? Wooden fences come in a wide variety of styles depending on your fencing project preference - picket fences are traditional and require little maintaining but you can also find modern-looking designs if that's what you'd prefer. Some other styles include lapped paling fence, quality fence, boundary fence and many more. The style of your fencing is up to you so think carefully about what sort of look you want to achieve when choosing one. Picket fencing looks beautiful in domestic property boundaries while paling fencing in residential property boundaries. The paling fences can be built by steel posts and rails to give more support. ### Picket fence A traditional picket fence is a popular choice as it doesn't require much upkeep and will suit most outdoor use areas. Timber posts have the advantage of being easy to install but a tendency to warp after time if not treated properly so you may need to consider this when making your purchase. ### Slatted fence Slatted fences tend to be better for areas that receive a high range of rainfall as they're far more water-resistant than other trees. The design features vertical boards with gaps in between which allow rainwater through without causing damage or warping. Once again, slat materials are best suited for external use due to their weather-resistant qualities as coming in contact with rainwater can damage the rails and posts. ### Solid fence Solid wood fences are far more expensive than other types as they're harder to make and require a high level of craftsmanship job. They tend to be made from top-quality timbers such as Merbau and iroko which make them very strong and durable but this results in a much higher price tag. Solid material fences can last for decades if well taken care of and treated properly so if you have the money, you may very well get your money's worth. ## Is timber fencing cheaper than colorbond? Wood fencing can actually be more expensive than colorbond fencing (made from galvanised steel). The cost of labour plays a large part in this but there are also other factors to consider - hardwood timbers such as iroko tend to be pricier than treated pine or cedar for example. Colorbond can be purchased pre-treated so fence installed will be cheaper than treating your own wooden fence. Even though the final price tag of a wooden fence may appear higher, it's possible that your initial expenses will save you money in the long run with less preservation required and lower costs if left untreated over time. ## What colour do you paint your fencing? Timber fencing does not need to be painted unless you intend on changing the colour - some homeowners advise matching their fence colour with exterior features such as garage doors and front doors. If you decide to change the colour, try to opt for discretion rather than a bold statement. Choose a darker tone or neutral shade that will suit your yard design best. ## How do I maintain a timber fence? Even though timber fencing is weather-resistant, it does require regular preservation if you want it to stay in good condition over time. Washing the fence post once or twice a year with soap and water will remove any grease or dirt buildup which may lead to warping over time. Sanding the fencing down every few years can help protect your wood from exposure but be sure not to sand too frequently so you don't risk splitting the wood. If you're in a backyard area where termites are a problem, it's good advice to treat your fence with termite protection paint to keep them at bay. It is possible for wooden fencing to last decades if maintained and treated properly but if the fence comes in contact with factors such as rainfall and certain types of timber can cause problems. If you intend on using your new fence post anywhere near the coast, make sure you choose cedar or radiata pine rather than Merbau or iroko. Merbau tends to splinter easily when wet while iroko warps over time and both deal with moisture very badly. If you are hiring someone to install your fence, make sure they are licensed, according to the [Queensland Building and Construction Commission](https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/fence).

Treated Pine vs Hardwood Fence

Treated pine is a great option if you're looking for a budget-friendly timber fencing option. It's also relatively easy to install, and it will last for several years before needing to be replaced. However, treated pine timber fence is not as durable as hardwood, and it will eventually rot and decay. Hardwood fences are more expensive than treated pine fences, but they last much longer. Hardwood posts are also more resistant to moisture, termites, and insects attack, making them better for humid climates. Compared to treated pine, hardwood paling fences can be more difficult to install. For a durable and long-lasting fence, choose [hardwood over CCA treated pine](/guides/timber-fencing/what-is-timber-fencing). Hardwood is also less likely to warp over time, making it a better option in humid climates with a higher humidity level. If you can afford the upgrade, hardwood posts and fences are a great choice for your home. ## What is treated pine? Treated pine is pinewood injected with an oil or a water-based wood preservative that improves the protection of the treated timber from attacks by fungi and termites. Therefore, treated timber is suitable for fence posts and fence palings. However, even with treatment, pine palings or fence posts are not as durable as hardwoods, and they will eventually rot and decay. The pinewood is treated with a chemical preservative called CCA, or chromated copper arsenate. This ensures that the wood resists termites, insects and fungus, but it also makes it more flammable than other types of wood because of its arsenic content. Treated pine is not typically used for areas that will be frequently exposed to sunlight over time because exposure to sunlight will also cause it to decay more quickly. ## What woods are considered hardwood? Hardwood is also more resistant to moisture and insects, making it more suitable for humid climates. A hardwood paling fence can be more difficult to install than treated pine. However, hardwood lasts much longer than treated pine. Hardwood is a durable type of wood that may last several decades before needing replacement. It's also less likely to warp over time and will not crack as easily as treated pine because it contains fewer knots and splits in the grain pattern. If you want a fence that will give you privacy from neighbours and last even longer than treated pine without having to worry about rot or insect damage, choose hardwood instead. The price, though, will be higher. ## What are some of the benefits of using hardwood? Using hardwood fencing materials is best if you're looking for a quality, attractive paling fence that will also last a long time. The price of hardwood is higher than that of treated pine fencing material, but it is worth the investment if you want something that looks great and will last for many years without any problems. There are several types of hardwood that you can use for your new or upgrading an old fence, so you can find one that matches the style of your home and yard. Some of the most popular varieties include cedar, oak, and walnut. All of these timbers have unique characteristics that make them appealing for different fence applications. Cedar is a good timber fencing choice if you're looking for durable wood that's resistant to decay and insects. It has a natural resistance to moisture, making it ideal for use in humid climates. It also contains natural oils that help repel water and prevent warping over time. Oak is an excellent choice if you need a strong, durable timber fence for high traffic areas or keep animals in or out of your yard. Its durability makes it less likely to warp than other types of wood like cypress pine. Walnut is another quality choice if you're looking for a stronger picket fence wood that's more resistant to rot, insects and termites than untreated cypress pine lumber. Hardwoods are also more stable than treated timber fences. Palings and rails won't change shape as quickly when exposed to weather conditions like rain, snow, sun exposure, etc., over long periods of time like treated lumber can. ## What are the benefits of using treated pine? Treated pine posts are widely available. This is an attractive option for homeowners on a fence installation budget. Treated pine is also easier to find than other types of wood like hardwood, which can make it more convenient if you need to replace or upgrade or fix a totally new fence. However, treated lumber will not last as long as hardwood over time because it's made with arsenic compounds. Even though the CCA chemical has been regulated in recent years. It still exists in some products sold to consumers in the timber industry. The arsenic-based chemicals used to treat treated pine can enter the environment once they're discarded into landfills, too. Even though elements within the wood resist decay and insects, the arsenic will eventually leach out and contaminate the soil and groundwater. In addition, treated pine is more flammable than other types of wood because of its arsenic content. Treated pine is not typically used for areas that will be frequently exposed to sunlight over time, like a fence, because exposure to sunlight will also cause it to decay more quickly. The cost of pine posts, treated pine palings, or rails is much lower than that of hardwoods. A treated pine timber fence, when maintained correctly, has a long life span compared to untreated timber. Take a look at the average [costs and types of timber fencing](/guides/timber-fencing/timber-fence-cost). ## What is chromate copper arsenate? Chromate copper arsenate (CCA) is a chemical that has been used to treat wood products, like fence posts and lumber, since the 1940s. It's a mixture of three compounds: chromium, copper, and arsenic. The arsenic in CCA-treated products provides protection to timber fences against wood decay and insects, while chromium and copper help to preserve the colour of the wood. The use of CCA in the timber industry has come under scrutiny in recent years because of health concerns related to its arsenic content. There are concerns about the treatment chemicals dissolving into the ground when the treated timber is disposed of. Generally, studies show that a high risk of exposure occurs when CCA treated timber is burned. Burning treated timber makes the arsenic bioavailable through the smoke. ## Do hardwoods have a chemical treatment applied? No, hardwoods, unlike softwood timbers, do not have a chemical treatment applied. There are limited cases of treated hardwood, but the grains of hardwoods prevent the intake of treatment chemicals. Hardwood timber is naturally resistant to decay, termite infestation, and insects due to the tannins (a type of phenolic compound) found in their bark and sap. Tannins are also found in tea, coffee, and some types of wine, making them effective at preserving these beverages over time. This natural resistance makes hardwood materials highly recommended for fences, decks, and other outdoor applications where they will be regularly exposed to the elements. Hardwood is also more durable than treated lumber, meaning it has a longer life with less maintenance. ## Should hardwoods be painted or sealed? Unlike CCA treated pine palings, timber fencing made from hardwoods does not need painting or sealing to protect them from the elements. Hardwoods fence palings are naturally resistant to decay and insects due to the tannins found in their bark and sap. Tannins are also found in tea, coffee, and some types of wine, making them effective at preserving these beverages over time. This natural resistance makes hardwood an excellent choice for fences, decks, palings, rails, and other outdoor applications where it will be regularly exposed to the elements. Generally, hardwood is also more durable than treated timber, meaning it will last longer with less maintenance making it ideal for structural retaining walls too. If durability is your number one consideration, consider metal fencing options instead of timber fencing. Metals posts and paling fences are highly functional. You can choose from a wide range, including round, t-shapes, square posts and Colorbond. The New South Wales EPA has an informative guide to [handling treated timber](https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/your-environment/household-building-and-renovation/treated-timber).

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