Choosing the Best Wood Fence: Pros and Cons of Pine 

Wood fencing is a classic American look used in suburban backyards, commercial facilities, rural farmlands, and everywhere in between. The natural look and relatively affordable price makes wood the go-to for most property owners. However, most don’t realize just how many options they have for installation.  

Treated pinewood is the most common type of wood for fencing, and for good reason. However, we want to ensure our customers have all the information they need to make a sound decision for their properties. Below are some of the pros and cons of treated pine for fencing to help you make the right decision for your home:  

Pros of Pine Fencing 

• It is resistant to wood rot – Most pinewood is pressure treated for outdoor use, which protects it from rot, warping, and other types of water damage. Not all wood materials have this characteristic, which is why pressure-treated pine is used so often.  
• It is low-cost – Pressure-treated pine is one of the most affordable wood options available. It can be almost half of what cedarwood fencing is priced, depending on the quality and availability in your area.  

• It is easy to find and customize – Pressure-treated pine is the most common wood for fencing, and is readily available at most home improvement stores. And, because it is treated for better construction use, it is easy to cut and shape for a custom fence design.  

Cons of Pine Fencing 

• It is not eco-friendly – Wood is generally not considered “eco-friendly” because of the farming practices requires to produce it for construction. Plus, pine fencing is treated with chemicals that can leech into the soil, affecting surrounding plants and wildlife over the years.  

• It is not as durable as cedar – Generally, a high-quality cedar will outlast pressure-treated pine even with proper care.  
• Requires paint or staining – Most pressure-treated pine is installed without paint or staining, and you can often see the greenish tint that is acquired through the treatment process. You will likely have to paint or stain the wood yourself to get a beautiful natural wood appearance.  

Pressure-treated pine may be the perfect fit for your next fence installation. However, if you’d like to learn about other wood options, visit our Fencing Resources page or contact us for more information.