RESIDENTIAL WOOD FENCING IN Newton, Iowa

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

For those in Iowa, a residential wood fence is a popular option that combines versatility with natural beauty. Whether your goal is privacy, security, or improving your home's aesthetic, wood fencing offers a customizable solution built to handle Iowa's changing seasons.

BENEFITS OF RESIDENTIAL WOOD FENCING in Newton

BEST WOOD TYPES FOR FENCES IN Newton, Iowa

Wood Fence FAQ

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

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?

Although treated lumber doesn’t match the natural look of cedar or Douglas fir, stained white and red pine posts are a dependable solution. Pine’s dense composition provides strength, and ACQ or ACQ2 treatments enhance its resistance to decay. These posts can be stained to a darker shade, creating a visually appealing contrast with cedar or fir rails and pickets.

As treated pine dries, it naturally develops "checks", or thin cracks along the grain. This is expected and does not weaken the post. Only cracks that extend through the entire post should be a concern.

Slight twisting is also typical in pine posts due to uneven drying. This natural occurrence does not compromise the quality or longevity of the material.

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

To maintain the rich cedar color of your fence in Newton, IA, plan to stain it within six weeks of installation. Ensure the wood is dry before staining, ideally after at least a week of dry weather. The dry summers in Iowa make this process more effective.

Choose an insured staining contractor in Newton to avoid issues with overspray, which can affect nearby properties and vehicles. Work during calm, dry conditions and protect adjacent areas with drop cloths and tape.

Brushing stain onto wood fencing can be difficult. Rolling is easier but often less precise. Spraying provides the best coverage when done correctly. Follow up spraying with a brush to ensure even absorption.

Apply stain evenly using continuous strokes. If applying multiple coats, do so while the first coat is still wet to prevent peeling.

Re-staining is typically needed every 2 to 3 years. Avoid constant sprinkler exposure, which can cause discoloration. Douglas fir holds color longer than cedar, but both will gray without maintenance.

Why is cedar fencing so popular in Newton?

Forty years ago, cedar fence boards were rich with dark orange, red, and brown hues. The boards also had a very strong, unmistakable strong cedar smell. Back then, cedar fencing came from old growth cedar trees. When the trees were harvested, the trunks were as big around as a car, mostly comprised of heart wood with a few outer sapwood rings.

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?

Each gate is supported by two independent posts positioned on both sides of the opening. Over time, factors like soil settling, frost, temperature changes, and sun exposure can cause these posts to move. A slight shift in the hinge post can greatly affect the latch alignment, often resulting in a gate that won’t properly latch.

What can I do to fix my gates?

Because they operate vertically, drop fork latches are not impacted by shifting gate posts. Their simple two-prong design allows them to function even when alignment changes slightly. Latches that rely on a horizontal rod or resemble door locks are more susceptible to misalignment and may need adjustment. Four-way adjustable hinges provide the flexibility to keep these systems working properly.

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.