RESIDENTIAL WOOD FENCING IN Reasnor, Iowa

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

A residential wood fence is a dependable and versatile option for homeowners in Iowa. Whether you're trying to create a private retreat, secure your yard, or elevate your property's appearance, wood fencing provides a natural, customizable solution made for Iowa's changing seasons.

BENEFITS OF RESIDENTIAL WOOD FENCING in Reasnor

BEST WOOD TYPES FOR FENCES IN Reasnor, Iowa

Wood Fence FAQ

Is cedar still my best choice for wood fencing in Reasnor, 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 harvesting restrictions reducing the supply of old-growth cedar, wood suppliers are increasingly relying on species like Douglas fir, white fir, and incense cedar.

These trees often come from older growth, offering dense heartwood that makes them ideal for fencing. Products like Douglas fir consistently outperform cedar in durability. While the familiar cedar scent is less noticeable, many find that a benefit rather than a drawback.

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

Treated materials just can’t compare to the natural beauty of cedar and Douglas Fir. However, treated and stained white and red pine have proven to be an excellent choice for fence posts. Pine is a very dense wood that provides considerable strength. When treated with an ACQ or ACQ2 pressure treatment, the wood becomes almost impenetrable. Treated materials may be easily stained providing a darker color compared to your cedar and Douglas Fir rails and pickets. The contrast in colors does provide a nice combination.

However, red and white pine posts will form "checks" as the posts begin to dry after treatment. These checks are long thin cracks that form along the grain of the post. This is a natural process to be expected that does not compromise the strength or longevity of the post. You should only be concerned if these cracks dig deep through the post where you can see daylight.

Also, red and white pine posts are prone to twist slightly. Again, this is part of the natural maturation process of the material. This twisting is a result of uneven drying of the post. It does not compromise the quality or longevity of the post.

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

To maintain cedar’s natural tones in your Reasnor, IA fence, stain within six weeks of installation. Make sure the wood is dry—preferably after a week without rain. Dry summers in Iowa allow for better stain penetration.

Always hire an insured contractor in Reasnor. Staining can create overspray that affects nearby homes and surfaces. Protect surrounding areas and work during calm weather.

Brushing is difficult on textured wood, while rolling can cause drips. Spraying is the most efficient method when done correctly. Follow with a brush for even application.

Apply stain evenly, and if adding a second coat, do so before the first dries.

Expect to re-stain every few years. Avoid sprinkler overspray, as it can cause uneven fading. Both cedar and Douglas fir will gray over time.

Why is cedar fencing so popular in Reasnor?

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 lighter outer rings of a tree, known as sapwood, serve as the “working” portion, carrying water and nutrients throughout the tree much like a circulatory system. While essential during the tree’s life, sapwood is not ideal for fencing or exterior use. It holds more moisture, shrinks significantly as it dries, and is more vulnerable to fungal decay.

The darker inner core is called heartwood, formed from older sapwood that no longer transports nutrients. This section becomes the structural backbone of the tree. Heartwood is preferred for fencing because it contains less moisture, resists fungi better, and experiences less shrinkage. Many mills producing cedar posts and beams remove sapwood entirely to focus on heartwood.

As sapwood transitions into heartwood, it stops carrying sap and essentially becomes inactive. During this process, the wood’s pores fill with organic compounds, and chemical extractives develop, giving heartwood its rich color, scent, and natural durability.

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?

Two freestanding posts support a gate, positioned on opposite sides of the opening. Over time, these posts can shift due to factors like soil movement, freezing temperatures, and sun exposure. Even slight movement in the hinge post can lead to a misaligned latch, preventing the gate from closing properly.

What can I do to fix my gates?

The classic drop fork latch, with its vertical two-prong design, is not affected by shifting gate posts and typically continues to operate smoothly. Latches that use a horizontal rod or resemble standard door locks are more prone to misalignment and may require adjustment. For these setups, four-way adjustable hinges are a smart solution, offering both vertical and horizontal adjustments.

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.