RESIDENTIAL WOOD FENCING IN Ames, Iowa

Custom-built wood fences designed for privacy, durability, and curb appeal.

In Iowa, residential wood fencing continues to be a popular and adaptable choice for homeowners. Whether you need added privacy, increased security, or a more attractive exterior, wood fencing offers a natural look with customization options suited to Iowa's changing seasons.

BENEFITS OF RESIDENTIAL WOOD FENCING in Ames

BEST WOOD TYPES FOR FENCES IN Ames, Iowa

Wood Fence FAQ

Is cedar still my best choice for wood fencing in Ames, IA?

From your first meeting to final installation, our fence company’s Project Managers are by your side. They coordinate every stage — Estimating, Quoting, Scheduling, and Building — to deliver a stress-free fencing experience with clear communication throughout.

Today’s cedar fencing from sapwood cannot hold up to its reputation as the preferred choice for longevity in exterior applications as its lifespan is considerably shorter compared to yesterday’s heartwood cedar fencing.

What are my options over cedar?

As access to old-growth cedar becomes more limited, the industry has turned to plentiful alternatives such as Douglas fir, white fir, and incense cedar.

Because these species are harvested from larger, older trees, they contain more heartwood, resulting in stronger and more durable fence boards. Douglas fir especially has shown better longevity than modern cedar. You might lose the classic cedar smell, but you’ll gain years of added lifespan—and avoid an overpowering scent over time.

Is treated wood better than western red, incense cedar or Douglas fir?

Treated lumber doesn’t quite match the natural look of cedar or Douglas fir, but treated and stained white and red pine are excellent options for fence posts. Pine is a dense, durable wood that offers strong support, and when treated with ACQ or ACQ2, it becomes highly resistant to the elements. These treated posts can also be stained to achieve a deeper tone, creating an appealing contrast with cedar or Douglas fir rails and pickets.

As treated pine dries, it’s common for "checks" to appear—long, narrow cracks that follow the grain of the wood. This is a normal part of the drying process and does not impact the post’s strength or lifespan. Only cracks that extend fully through the post and allow light to pass through should be a concern.

Red and white pine posts may also develop slight twisting over time. This occurs during uneven drying and is a natural characteristic of the wood. It does not reduce the durability or performance of the post.

Do I need to stain my Douglas fir or cedar fence?

If you want to maintain that reddish and blonde cedar color in your Ames, IA fence, consider staining it within six weeks of installation. Make sure the wood is completely dry before applying stain—ideally after at least a week without rain. Dry conditions common during Iowa summers help the wood absorb stain more effectively.

When hiring a staining contractor in Ames, always choose an insured professional. Fence staining can be messy and may lead to overspray on nearby homes, neighboring properties, vehicles, or patios. Plan to stain on calm, dry days, and take the time to protect surrounding areas like houses, sheds, and adjacent fences with tape and drop cloths to avoid damage to landscaping and lawns.

Applying stain with a brush can be challenging due to the rough texture of most wood fencing. Rolling is easier but may lead to drips and uneven coverage. Spraying is typically the most efficient method if done carefully. For best results, spray the fence first and then follow up quickly with a brush to ensure even distribution and proper penetration.

Stain should be applied in smooth, continuous strokes for consistent coverage. Unlike paint, if you plan to apply more than one coat, the second coat must go on while the first is still wet. Waiting too long between coats can prevent proper adhesion and may lead to peeling over time.

In most climates, you can expect to re-stain your fence every 2 to 3 years. Be mindful of sprinkler systems, as frequent water exposure can cause uneven fading or discoloration. While Douglas fir tends to hold its natural color longer than cedar, both will begin to weather to a gray tone within six to twelve months without maintenance.

Why is cedar fencing so popular in Ames?

In the past, cedar fence boards featured deep, vibrant tones and a distinct aroma that was hard to miss. These boards came from old-growth cedar trees with massive trunks, largely composed of heartwood and only a small amount of sapwood near the outer edges.

What is the difference between sap wood and heartwood?

Sapwood, the lighter outer portion of the tree, acts as the transport system for water and nutrients. Although necessary for the tree’s life, it is less suitable for fencing because it retains moisture, shrinks as it dries, and is prone to fungal issues.

The darker inner core, known as heartwood, develops from older sapwood that has stopped functioning. This part of the tree is stronger and more durable, making it ideal for exterior use. Many cedar mills prioritize heartwood and remove sapwood entirely.

When sapwood becomes heartwood, it stops carrying sap and fills with natural compounds. These extractives give heartwood its rich appearance, unique scent, and resistance to decay.

Should I use cedar or treated pine fence posts?

If the concrete footing is placed to shed water from the posts, cedar or treated pine is fine. We will use premium cedar post or ACQ2 treated and stained posts. Though the treated pine posts are subject to forming checks and a slight twist, these posts have proven to outlast cedar. Cedar is less prone to form any cracking or twisting but it will occasionally warp. If not stained, cedar posts will eventually “grey out”.

Are treated materials safe for my family and pets?

Only use industry approved ACQ treated posts. Stay clear of using CCA (Cooper Chromate Arsenic) materials. If unsure how the materials are coated, look for a tag at either end of the post or inquire with your fence contractor.

What about Wood Gates?

Only use a heavy duty 4” x 6” posts on the hinge side of your 6’ tall gate. We recommend using three hinges per gate. Make sure all hardware is powder coated to avoid rusting.

Will I have maintenance issues with my wood gates?

Gates depend on two posts installed independently on either side of the entrance. These posts are subject to movement from soil conditions, frost, and temperature changes. Even a small adjustment in the hinge post can create a larger misalignment at the latch, making it difficult for the gate to latch securely.

What can I do to fix my gates?

Drop fork latches, which move vertically like a pitchfork, are not impacted by minor shifts in gate posts. They are a reliable option when dealing with changing conditions. However, latches that depend on horizontal alignment, such as rod-style or door lock mechanisms, often need to be adjusted. Adding four-way adjustable hinges allows you to easily realign your gate when needed.

What nails do I need for my wood fence?

A galvanized or aluminized nail that is counter sunk to avoid popping-out is your best bet.