Adding a wood fence to your home can increase the value of your property, provide privacy and add security, and improve the overall look of your yard. But before you choose a style or type of wood fence, you need to consider several factors. You’ll need to find a fencing company that offers quality workmanship, good customer service, and options for maintenance. And you should be sure to ask for references and testimonials.

You should also check to see if you need a building permit. Many communities require a permit before installing a wood fence. You may also need to do a property survey to ensure that the fence will be affixed to your property line. The fence should also meet your local municipality’s height restrictions.

You should choose a wood that will last for several years. You may want to use cedar or cypress, which are both durable and rot-resistant. If you live in a climate with a lot of cold, you may want to bury the posts deeper than usual. The deeper the posts are buried, the less chance there is of the fence heaving during the winter freeze/thaw cycles.

If you plan to use a wooden fence for privacy, you may want to use wood that is treated to repel insects. This will ensure that the fence will last longer and preserve the natural color of the wood. You can also add a paint finish to increase the protection against the elements.

If you don’t want to deal with the maintenance of a wood fence, consider installing a composite fence, which is made from plastic and wood fiber. This fence is splinter-proof and offers a low-maintenance alternative. It’s also made from recycled materials.

You can paint your wood fence to add a new touch of color or to keep the natural look. If you choose to paint the fence, be sure to use a sealant to protect the wood from the elements. You can also add stains to enhance the look of the wood. However, if you choose to paint the fence, be sure that you sand it before applying the final paint. Otherwise, the paint may chip or flake.

If you want to keep your wood fence in good shape, you may want to have it pressure washed every few years. If you choose to paint the fence, you should make sure that the paint is UV-resistant. Also, you should reseal the fence every few years to extend the life of the fence.

The type of wood you choose will depend on your needs and budget. Some of the best types of wood for fencing are redwood and cedar. If you are interested in a more rustic look, you may consider using pine. However, pine is not as durable as cedar or redwood. You may also consider using a high-end hardwood, like ipe, a tropical wood from South America.

You can also choose from a variety of styles for your wood fence. For instance, a fence with a shadow box style or a lattice design can create a great focal point for your backyard. You can also choose a fence with a solid board or picket style. You can also add a decorative finial to the end of your fence posts.