If you’re looking to build a new fence or deck, the options for materials may seem to be overwhelming. But according to Total Fence Inc., the Greater Toronto Area’s leading fence and deck builder, there is one clear choice: cedar wood.
Practical reasons for having a cedar wood fence installed aside, the wood is typically smooth and free of the blemishes and irregularities that can mar other types of wood. It has a rich and deep colour, and our clients report that it looks great, whether it’s used to build a fence or deck. Cedar wood mainly grows on the West Coast of Canada and the U.S. That means when you have a cedar wood fence or deck installed, you’re supporting Canadian and American industries.
Fences made from cedar offer many advantages, the biggest being that they are extremely durable. Cedar wood itself also contains many oils that act as a natural deterrent against insects and decay. Surprisingly, cedar is one of the few woods that do not require treatment of any kind; in fact, sealants can actually have a negative effect on the natural oils in the wood.
There is a downside to this, however: cedar wood tends to fade to a silvery grey over time. That said, cedar fences and decks do last; once you have one installed, it may last as long as 20 years.
Cedar wood lays flat, making it easy to install. It also has noise-dampening abilities, so you can enjoy a quiet summer afternoon without worrying about distractions like traffic or the neighbours’ kids playing.
Cedar wood is also extremely durable, especially against the elements. It will not warp or shrink—a definite advantage, given the cold winters, wet springs, and hot summers in the GTA. This is due to cedar having a low sapwood percentage. Cedar wood is also hygroscopic, meaning that if it gets wet, it will absorb water quickly, then release it again just as fast, preventing cracks from forming.
If you ever want to have your cedar fence or deck replaced, you can rest easy knowing that disposing of it will not have a negative impact on the environment; cedar wood is one of the most biodegradable woods on the market.
At Total Fence Inc., we offer cedar wood fences and decks in a number of designs, or if you prefer, we will create a fence or deck that is unique to your property.