What type of wood should be used?
There are many different types of timber that can be used for wooden fencing. Naturally durable timber or treated wood should be only be used.
Traditionally, Sweet chestnut is commonly used. This timber was actually introduced by the Romans and is a great wood to use. The elements of this particular wood mean that you may split the wood, rather than cut it to your requirements. Wood that has been separated this way absorbs less water than saw-cut wood, making this a very durable timber for wooden fencing.
Oak is also another very durable timber that can be used and riven hard-wood timber is starting to be used again. To take advantage of this, local timber sills are needed.
Connecting timber.
When connecting timber, galvanized nails or screws should only be used. The reason for this is when the non-galvanized nail becomes rusty over time; it is likely to come away from the timber. When connecting the timber, always make sure that the nail is three times the thickness of the wood that is being connected. To avoid the nail splitting the wood, especially at the ends, longer nails should be used and driven in at angles. Pre-drilled holes can also prevent a split. Finally, as an extra precaution, blunting the end of the nail with a hammer is also an effective method to avoid those un-wanted splits.
An alternative to nails and screws is fence bolts. Various types of wooden fencing require bolts such a coach bolts. These are very strong and have a square head that actually locks into the wood as the nut is tightened. As with nails and screws, galvanized bolts should be used.
John Rea has over 30 years experience as a fencing contractor in the UK, his website contains information relating to many different types of fencing and gates, find out more > Fencing Contractor.
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