Pressure Treated Lumber is the best-priced option. This material is fabricated for exterior use. Chemicals are soaked in the wood to keep termites and moisture out. The raw materials are made to resist moisture and insects with out any sealant. We apply two coats of stain/sealant to all of our materials which adds a lot more life to the pressure treated lumber.
If you are currently dealing with an infestation and it is not too far along, it may be possible to salvage the material and refinish the wood.
Redwood also provides protection against insects. Some Redwood is better protection than others.
BEST Protection : Conheart Redwood has natural oils that keeps insects away. This type of lumber is the center portion of the redwood tree and will add cost to your budget. Just like anything, you get what you pay for. Spend more in the beginning and you get a longer lasting product.
MEDIUM Protection: Our most common wood for a beautiful finish. Clear Redwood is the selected portion of the tree that does not have knots in it. This wood is dry and the best type of wood for a slick finishes on our Designer Fence and HD fencing categories.
MEDIUM Protection: Common Redwood (used in our Mid-Range Fence category - just to let you know, Clear Redwood is also common redwood, just dried out and selected lumber without knots) These are the standard 1 x 6 fence boards providing a much rougher finish. These boards are also contain moisture and will shrink after installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thoughtful answers to real questions homeowners ask before investing in a fence or gate
1. What is the best way to prevent termites in a new fence?
Using pressure-treated lumber is one of the best ways to prevent termite damage.
2. What is pressure-treated lumber?
It is wood treated with chemicals to resist termites, moisture, and decay.
3. Does pressure-treated wood need additional protection?
Yes, applying stain or sealant adds extra protection and extends its lifespan.
4. How many coats of sealant are recommended?
Two coats of stain or sealant are ideal for better durability and protection.
5. Can termites still affect treated wood?
While resistant, treated wood is not completely immune and still benefits from sealing.
6. Can infested wood be saved?
Yes, if the infestation is minor, the wood can sometimes be refinished and treated.
7. Is redwood resistant to termites?
Yes, redwood naturally resists insects due to its natural oils.
8. What type of redwood offers the best protection?
Conheart Redwood provides the highest level of termite and insect resistance.
9. Why is Conheart Redwood more expensive?
It comes from the center of the tree and has stronger natural protection properties.
10. Is investing in higher-quality wood worth it?
Yes, better-quality wood lasts longer and reduces future repair costs.
11. What is Clear Redwood?
It is knot-free, dry wood that provides a smooth and premium finish.
12. Does Clear Redwood protect against termites?
Yes, it offers moderate protection due to its natural properties.
13. What is Common Redwood?
It is standard redwood used for fencing with a rougher finish and more moisture.
14. How does Common Redwood perform against termites?
It offers moderate protection but less than Conheart Redwood.
15. Does moisture content affect wood durability?
Yes, wetter wood can shrink over time and may be more vulnerable if untreated.
16. Why does wood shrink after installation?
Moisture inside the wood evaporates, causing the material to contract.
17. Which wood type is best for long-term durability?
Conheart Redwood or pressure-treated lumber are the best long-term options.
18. Does staining help prevent termites?
Yes, staining adds a protective barrier against moisture and insects.
19. Should I choose cheaper wood for fencing?
Cheaper wood may cost less initially but may require more maintenance and replacement.
20. What is the best overall strategy for termite prevention?
Use quality materials, apply sealant, and choose wood with natural or chemical resistance.