If you’ve been considering a fencing project and have done your research, you’ve probably come across the terms ‘treated’ and ‘untreated.’ These terms refer to whether the material has been treated with chemicals or not. We’ll dive deeper into each kind and provide some insight to which may be the best fit for you.
What’s The Difference?
As the name implies, treated wood is wood that has been treated with chemicals. These chemicals allow the wood to combat elements well and keep the wood looking and performing like new for years. Non-treated wood is wood that has not been treated with anything, just 100% natural wood. Natural wood is better for the environment but will not stand up as well against harsh elements as treated wood will.
Treated wood often has toxic chemicals applied to it to keep it in such good shape and form. These chemicals are known to damage the surrounding landscapes and are generally unhealthy to humans and pets. Although treated materials will last longer than untreated ones, they come at a cost that all customers should be aware of.
Pressure treated lumber is also quite hard to dispose of when you no longer want it. Since it’s harmful to the environment, it can’t be thrown away in a typical manner. It is also not advised to burn these materials, as the toxins can harm nearby plants and animals. In addition, pressure treated materials are difficult to stain or paint. So if you are unhappy with the way that they ‘naturally’ look, we would recommend going a different direction with your fencing materials.
For non-treated materials, our customer favorite is cedar. Naturally, cedar is resistant to rot and decay and many varieties of pests. When sealed properly, it is also quite resistant to harsh conditions. In comparison to treated materials however, it’s nowhere close to as resistant to harsh environments for extended periods of time.
Which Is Better?
As with any project, it’s always a good idea to make a budget and a list of must-haves before weighing your options. If this fence is intended to be installed in an area that doesn’t see a lot of foot traffic, pressure treated may be the right move. If this fence is going up in a family backyard, it’s advisable to install a non-treated fence. Always keep in mind if your fence will be in contact with people or animals. If the answer is yes, we recommend only natural materials in your outdoor spaces.
Ultimately, pressure treated materials are best used in areas not exposed to people, plants, or animals frequently. For these areas, we recommend natural wood materials that have not been treated. Instead, homeowners should seal their natural wood materials properly to ensure a longer life. For commercial properties or areas where quality isn’t really an issue, pressure treated is the way to go.
Whichever material you choose, Cedar Fence Direct can help get you the best quality and best price. Contact our representatives today for a quote!
