Fencing is what we all need in our houses, gardens, and farms. The different types of fencing have different purposes, and the qualities also differ. Some are resistant to harsh weather conditions, and some are better for being more durable. Some are expensive, and some are easy to install.
At the basic level, you can install these if you have a little knowledge about the fencing materials, but you need professional assistance when you plan to install them in a large area with a professional look.
Buon Construction, based in the UK, offers a full range of construction services, including renovation, fencing installation, remodelling, electrical work, plumbing, and more.
In this blog, we will introduce the different types of wood that are best for fencing in the UK.
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Understanding Different Types of Wood Fence Posts (10 types)
The best wood types for farm fencing are cedar, oak, and pressure-treated pine. Cedar is naturally resistant to rot and insects, which makes it a popular option. Oak is known for its strength and durability, while pressure-treated pine is a more affordable and widely accessible choice. Your decision will likely depend on factors like budget, availability, and how long you want the fence to last.
Choosing the right fencing depends on several factors, like what appearance you like, what type of wood you like, what type is easier to maintain and more.
Below are 10 common types of wood used for fence posts in the UK.
- Oak Fence Posts
Oak is known for its strength and long-lasting ability as it provides natural resistance to decay. More people choose this as a fencing option. As these features come with a price, it could be more expensive than some of the other options.
- Cedar Fence Posts
Cedar is also good-looking and provides a classic and beautiful look. It is a great option and offers resistance against rot and insect damage. It does not need any chemical treatment to last longer.
- Redwood Fence Posts
Redwood is also referred to as a more durable option, like the previous option, cedar. It gives an attractive look and comes at an expensive price.
- Pine Fence Posts (Pressure-Treated)
Softwood is an option if you choose an affordable one. It should be installed properly and requires maintenance over time to make it last longer. It provides resistance to moisture and climate damage.
- Larch Fence Posts
Larch is also naturally durable, like softwood, and has a high resin content. It is an excellent option for wet and exposed areas as it provides resistance to weather conditions.
- Chestnut Fence Posts
Chestnut posts, particularly sweet chestnuts, are naturally long-lasting due to their high tannin content. They have a rustic appearance and don’t require chemical treatment to last long.
- Spruce Fence Posts
Spruce is another commonly used wood for fencing. It requires treatment as it is not naturally great for protection and resistance against rot.
- Douglas Fir Fence Posts
Douglas fir is a light reddish-brown coloured material that is considered best for agricultural fencing and works fine in wet areas. It is durable and resistant but requires minimal maintenance.
- Hemlock Fence Posts
Hemlock fencing is our 9th option on the list as a suitable material for fence posts. It requires a protective coating to make it more long-lasting.
- Treated Timber Fence Posts
Softwoods, including spruce and pine, are treated with chemicals that enhance their longevity and make them resistant to decay. This is one of the affordable and easy-to-install options for fencing wood.
What Makes Your Fence Last? 5 Key Factors
Here are 5 factors that affect how long your fence will last:
- Climate: The weather conditions and the climate of the area you are in matter for the longevity of the materials and fencing.
- Rain: If there is a lot of rain, then the chances are that the materials can start rotting. This may then lead to the decay of the fencing posts quickly.
- Temperature: Too hot or too cold are extremes of the weather. If the temperature is not normal, then you need to put in extra effort and care to make it last.
- Soil Acidity: It also depends on the soil. If the soil is very acidic, it can slowly break down the wood, especially where the fence meets the ground.
- Maintenance: Regular care, like cleaning and reapplying protective treatments, helps keep your fence strong and looking good for longer.
Tips For the Longitivity of the Fencing
- Regularly check for cracks, loose posts, and wobbly bits. A little update and care can save time and prevent problems that you need to fix later.
- Keep the posts dry. The grass just under the fencing should not let water sit in it, and the base should be dry.
- A good paint coat keeps the rain and bugs from ruining the base and the fencing.
- Vines and plants might look nice, but they trap moisture and make wood rot faster.
- Spot a little damage? Sort it out straight away before it gets worse!
Life Expectancy of the Wood Types
| Type of Wood | Lifespan (Years) |
| Oak | 15-25 (Naturally durable) |
| Cedar | 15-20 (Rot & insect-resistant) |
| Redwood | 20-30 (Durable & attractive) |
| Pine (Pressure-Treated) | 25-30 (Affordable but needs maintenance) |
| Larch | 20-25 (Weather-resistant) |
| Chestnut | 20-25 (High tannin content) |
| Spruce | 10-20 (Requires treatment) |
| Douglas Fir | 15-20 (Resistant, low maintenance) |
| Hemlock | 10-25 (Needs protective coating) |
| Treated Timber | 20-30 (Enhanced longevity with treatment) |
What Type of Material You’ll Need?
If you want to install it by yourself, you will need most of these materials and tools. However, construction and fencing services will have all the required tools and expertise for the fencing to be completed.
- Fence panels or individual boards
- Fence posts
- Concrete mix
- Measuring tape
- String line and stakes
- Level
- Post hole digger or auger
- Shovel
- Gravel
- Hammer or nail gun
- Screws or nails
- Saw (if adjustments are needed)
- Protective gear (gloves, safety glasses)
Final Thoughts
Buon Construction is a renowned professional construction services provider in the UK. If you are looking for a professional fencing installation expert in the UK, choose our expert services. Buon Construction is an incredible company that offers remarkable and quality services for construction and fencing installation for your home and garden. Contact our experts today and get your job done with excellent finishing.
