A Cedar Split Rail Fence is a classic choice for those looking to add beauty and functionality to their property. Known for its durability and rustic appearance, cedar is ideal for building a strong and lasting fence.
To build a strong cedar split rail fence, use rot-resistant posts spaced 8-10 feet apart, drive posts 2-3 feet into the ground, properly brace post connections with lag screws, ensure rails are level when attaching to poles, use galvanized fasteners, and seamlessly join rail sections.
This guide will walk you through the steps of building a Cedar Split Rail Fence. You’ll learn everything from choosing suitable materials to the construction process and maintenance tips.
KEY Takeaways
- Choosing the Right Cedar: Opt for high-quality cedar wood, known for its strength and resistance to weather conditions.
- Effective Construction Techniques: Properly set the fence posts deep in the ground and ensure tight-fitting rails for a stable and robust structure.
- Maintenance for Longevity: Regularly apply weatherproofing treatments and conduct inspections for any damage to maintain the integrity.
Cedar Has Natural, Protective Oils
This is because it has natural oils inside that deter insects. Further, cedar is also rot-resistant, giving the wood a longer lifespan compared to other types of wood. Cedar is a wood that is easy to treat.
Treating A Cedar Fence Acts To Its Longevity
Cedar split rail fences can generally last 25 to 30 years, but if you treat the wood and maintain it well, you can make it stronger and last longer. Some people use raw cedar or pine for their split-rail fences.
Their exposure to different temperatures, the sun, and rain can cause them to deteriorate before their time. Treating it properly for longevity to protect it from further weather damage would be best.
Painting or staining your wood fence can certainly help it to last longer. They will extend the life of your fence and protect it from insects, the weather, and general wear and tear.
Prepare The Wood’s Surface
To stain cedar to help it keep its natural look, you will need to prepare the surface by sanding the wood to roughen the surface somewhat. This ensures that the wood stain will adhere to the wood’s surface. It is best to apply a paint that is used explicitly for cedarwood, which will penetrate deep into the grains of the wood.
Applying sealant on the cedar will give it extra protection as it repels moisture and protects the wood from the sun’s UV rays.
How To Build A Cedar Split Rail Fence?
To build a Cedar Split Rail Fence, select high-quality cedar, plan your layout, dig post holes, and securely set the posts in concrete. Attach the rails snugly, ensuring they are level, and finish with a protective sealant for durability and aesthetics.
Here is our step-by-step guide to building a cedar split rail fence:
Material Selection
Choosing the suitable cedar wood is crucial for your fence. Opt for high-quality cedar known for its durability, resistance to rot and insects, and natural beauty. Look for straight, uniform rails and posts, free from significant knots or flaws. Cedar’s natural oils make it an excellent outdoor material, lasting for years, even without paint or stain.
Planning the Layout
Before you start building, carefully plan your fence’s layout. Measure your property line to determine the fence length. Decide on the spacing between the posts – typically, cedar split rail fences have posts 6 to 10 feet apart. Mark the post locations with stakes and use a string line to ensure straight lines. Consider gate placement if needed, providing adequate space for entry and exit.
Setting the Posts
The stability of your fence heavily relies on how well the posts are set. Dig holes at each marked location, ideally about 24-36 inches deep, depending on your local frost line and soil type. Place the posts in the holes and use a level to ensure they are straight. Fill the hole with concrete and allow it to set, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This step is critical for a long-lasting, sturdy fence.
Installing the Rails
Attach the rails once the posts are set, and the concrete has cured. Cedar split rail fences typically feature a simple design where rails slot into pre-cut holes in the poles. Ensure each rail fits snugly and is level before securing. Use galvanized nails or screws for additional stability if your design requires it.
Finishing Touches
Finally, protect your cedar fence from the elements. Although cedar naturally resists decay, applying a sealant or stain will prolong its life and enhance its appearance. Choose a product suitable for cedar and outdoor use. Regularly check your fence for damage or wear and reapply the protective coating. This step is vital for maintaining the fence’s beauty and durability.
Differences In Appearance And Costs With Cedar And Pine
When comparing cedar and pine, cedar stands out with its rich red hue and durability but comes at a higher price. Pine, being more affordable, offers a lighter color and a rustic look but requires more maintenance and is less durable.
Here is a detailed difference in appearance and cost with cedar and pine:
Appearance
Cedar and pine differ significantly in appearance. Cedar has a rich, natural red tone and a pleasant aroma. Its grain is also more uniform, providing a smooth, refined look. Conversely, pine is lighter in color, typically presenting a pale yellow or white hue. It has a more pronounced grain pattern, which some find appealing for its rustic charm.
Costs
When it comes to cost, pine is generally more affordable than cedar. This is due to pine’s wider availability and faster growth rate. While more expensive, Cedar offers greater longevity and natural resistance to rot and insects, which can be a cost-effective investment in the long run. The choice between cedar and pine often depends on budget constraints and the desired longevity of the fence.
FAQs
How long does cedar split rail fence last?
When properly installed and maintained, a cedar split rail fence can last 15-20 years or longer. Cedar contains natural oils that act as preservatives, providing resistance to rot, insects, and weathering. Applying supplemental sealant or stain every 2-3 years helps protect the wood further.
How much does a cedar split rail fence cost?
A cedar split rail fence typically costs $15 to $35 per linear foot installed. Cedar is more expensive than pine but is naturally rot-resistant. Prices depend on height, post spacing, number of rails, and geography. The wood rails cost $3 to $9 per linear foot.
What is the best material for a split rail fence?
The best woods for split rail fences are naturally rot-resistant cedar, redwood, and black locust. Cedar is a popular choice as it is durable, weather-resistant, and ages well. Redwood also withstands weathering but is very expensive. Black locust is extremely dense and long-lasting but not widely available.
How tall is a cedar split rail fence?
A cedar split rail fence is commonly built 36 to 48 inches tall in total height. The rails themselves are usually 6 or 7 feet long when installed. The most popular heights have two or three rails spanning between posts. A two-rail fence stands about 36 inches tall.
Get The Max Lifespan With Your Cedar Fence
Cedar is a good choice for a split rail fence, and there is a lot of information on how to build a strong fence, treat the wood, and maintain the fence so that you get the maximum lifespan from it.
Those experts on cedar fences will tell you to stain and seal your cedar fence to make it solid and durable, have a maintenance plan in place for the fence, and wash it from time to time.
A build-up of dirt makes it difficult to treat and encourages insect infestations. Once you have built your strong cedar split rail fence, you can say that a critical part of ensuring its strength and longevity is the staining and sealing part.
