RESIDENTIAL WOOD FENCING IN New Virginia, Iowa

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

Homeowners in Iowa often choose residential wood fencing for its versatility and natural appeal. Whether your priority is privacy, security, or enhancing your home's look, wood fencing offers a customizable solution designed to endure Iowa's changing seasons.

BENEFITS OF RESIDENTIAL WOOD FENCING in New Virginia

BEST WOOD TYPES FOR FENCES IN New Virginia, Iowa

Wood Fence FAQ

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

The experienced Project Managers at our fence company are dedicated to keeping your project on track from start to finish. With clear communication, expert scheduling, and attention to detail, they make your fencing experience seamless and professional.

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?

With the restrictions and limitations on harvesting old growth cedar, the wood industry has moved on to more abundant species such as Douglas fir, white fir and incense cedar.

These species are in great abundance in older growth trees, providing more options for fencing boards. Because these species like Douglas fir are being harvested from heartwood, these are proving to outperform cedar the fencing industry. Though you may not get to enjoy that rich cedar smell, you will get several years of longevity from these species. Besides, after a while, the smell of cedar is just too much to handle.

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

Treated lumber may lack the natural charm of cedar and Douglas fir, but red and white pine posts remain a strong and dependable option. Their dense composition provides excellent structural support, and pressure treatments like ACQ or ACQ2 significantly increase resistance to the elements. When stained, these posts can develop a darker finish that complements cedar or fir rails and pickets beautifully.

During the drying process, treated pine often develops "checks", or narrow cracks along the grain. These are expected and harmless, posing no risk to the post’s strength. Only cracks that go completely through the post should raise concern.

It’s also common for pine posts to twist slightly as they dry. This natural movement is caused by uneven moisture release and does not affect durability or lifespan.

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

For a long-lasting cedar look in New Virginia, IA, stain your fence within six weeks. Ensure the wood is fully dry—usually after a rain-free week. Dry conditions in Iowa help the stain absorb properly.

Hire an insured staining professional in New Virginia to avoid overspray problems. Protect nearby areas and stain during calm, dry weather.

Brushing can be tough, and rolling may leave streaks. Spraying works best when done carefully. Back-brush after spraying for best results.

Apply stain in smooth strokes. Apply additional coats while the first is still wet.

Re-staining is needed every 2 to 3 years. Avoid sprinkler exposure. Both cedar and Douglas fir will gray without maintenance.

Why is cedar fencing so popular in New Virginia?

Forty years in the past, cedar fencing featured rich blends of orange, red, and brown colors and carried a strong, distinct scent. These boards were cut from old-growth cedar trees, where the trunks were enormous and primarily composed of heartwood, with minimal outer sapwood.

What is the difference between sap wood and heartwood?

Sapwood, the lighter outer layer of a tree, carries water and nutrients much like a network of vessels. Although vital for growth, it is not well-suited for fencing because it contains more moisture, shrinks significantly, and is vulnerable to fungi.

Heartwood, found at the center of the trunk, develops from older sapwood that has ceased functioning. This dense inner core provides strength and is more resistant to decay, making it ideal for exterior uses. Many cedar products are made exclusively from heartwood for this reason.

When sapwood converts to heartwood, it stops transporting sap and becomes filled with organic compounds. These extractives change the wood’s color and give heartwood its signature durability and aroma.

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 are set with two independent gate posts on opposite sides of your gate opening. Gate posts are subject to settling of unsettled soil, frost, extreme changes in temperatures, and exposure to the sun, which can cause gate posts to change or move. Even the slightest change in the position of the hinge post will result in an exponential movement of the latch hasp on the gate. Bottom line, your gate won’t latch because the latch hasp does not align with the latch receiver on the gate post.

What can I do to fix my gates?

A drop fork latch is designed to handle minor post movement without issue. These latches move up and down and don’t rely on precise horizontal alignment. However, latches with horizontal rods or door-style locking systems are more sensitive to shifting and may need adjustments. Installing four-way adjustable hinges allows you to compensate for these changes and maintain proper gate function.

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.