RESIDENTIAL WOOD FENCING IN Perry, Iowa

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

A residential wood fence is a widely favored option among homeowners in Iowa for its versatility and charm. Whether you're looking to add privacy, secure your outdoor space, or improve curb appeal, wood fencing provides a natural and customizable solution built for Iowa's changing seasons.

BENEFITS OF RESIDENTIAL WOOD FENCING in Perry

BEST WOOD TYPES FOR FENCES IN Perry, Iowa

Wood Fence FAQ

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

Our fence company assigns experienced Project Managers to oversee each phase of your installation. They manage Estimating, Quoting, Scheduling, and the Build process to ensure your project runs smoothly and meets your expectations.

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 old-growth cedar becomes harder to source due to harvesting limitations, the industry has shifted toward more abundant woods like Douglas fir, white fir, and incense cedar.

Harvested from older trees, these materials offer a higher concentration of heartwood, making them more durable for fencing. Douglas fir, in particular, often exceeds cedar in lifespan. While cedar’s scent is reduced, many appreciate a more subtle outdoor environment.

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 preserve that warm reddish-blonde cedar tone on your fence in Perry, IA, it’s best to apply stain within six weeks after installation. Be sure the wood has had ample time to dry—ideally with at least a week of no rain. The dry summer conditions typical in Iowa help the wood take in stain more effectively.

When selecting a staining contractor in Perry, make sure they are fully insured. Staining can be a messy process, with the risk of overspray reaching nearby homes, vehicles, or neighboring properties. Choose calm, dry days for application, and protect nearby structures like houses, sheds, and fences using tape and drop cloths to avoid unwanted staining.

Using a brush to apply stain can be difficult due to the rough texture of wood fencing. Rolling may be easier but often leads to drips and uneven results. Spraying is typically the most efficient approach when done properly. For best coverage, spray first and then quickly back-brush to even out the finish.

Apply stain using long, smooth strokes to maintain a consistent look. If applying multiple coats, the second must be applied while the first is still wet. Letting the first coat dry completely can prevent proper bonding and may result in peeling later.

Plan on re-staining your fence every 2 to 3 years in most climates. Avoid frequent sprinkler contact, as constant moisture can cause uneven fading. While Douglas fir tends to retain its color longer than cedar, both will naturally turn gray within six to twelve months without upkeep.

Why is cedar fencing so popular in Perry?

Years ago, cedar fencing stood out for its vibrant orange, red, and brown hues, along with its signature strong smell. The wood was harvested from old-growth trees with thick trunks—often the size of a car—consisting largely of heartwood and very little sapwood.

What is the difference between sap wood and heartwood?

The outer sapwood layer, lighter in color, is responsible for moving water and nutrients through the tree. While critical for growth, it is not the best material for fencing due to its high moisture content, tendency to shrink, and susceptibility to fungus.

The darker heartwood forms deeper within the trunk as sapwood ages and becomes inactive. This section provides structural strength and resists decay, making it ideal for fencing. Many mills remove sapwood entirely to produce stronger, longer-lasting products.

As sapwood transforms into heartwood, sap flow ceases and organic materials accumulate in the cells. These extractives create the rich colors, distinctive smell, and durability associated with heartwood.

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?

Drop fork latches, which operate vertically like a two-pronged fork, are not impacted by post movement and generally remain reliable. On the other hand, latches that depend on a horizontal rod aligning with a receiver may need adjustment over time. Locking mechanisms similar to door hardware can also be affected. In these cases, four-way adjustable hinges provide the flexibility to keep your gate properly aligned.

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.