Are you hoping to build a new outdoor living space? Do you want to craft durable cedar fence panels in or around the Lower Mainland or the Okanagan, in BC? Have you sought out professional advice yet?
If not, it’s the best place to start. Professional advice can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. Let’s explore three main tips you should know when purchasing cedar fencing material.
Purchasing Tips For Western Red Cedar and Other Fencing Materials
Tip #1: Choose One Supplier
When selecting materials for your project, like western red cedar or other softwoods, it is highly recommended to order all your lumber from one retailer. The main reason is that material can change quite drastically from one supplier to the next. Even if it is the same species, different batches can be of varying quality and colour.
Pressure-treated lumber is one of the most visible examples that illustrate how divergent suppliers can be. This product may range from a vibrant green hue to an earthy brown hue, depending on which supplier you order it from. Additionally, lumber may be cut or have shrunk to a nominal dimension difference of up to ¼ of an inch from one supplier to another as the material seasons. Though in terms of manufactured product, there are standard changes in lumber size between smooth and rough profiles.
Tip #2: Avoid Multiple Trips
By ordering lumber in one bulk purchase (from the same retailer), you’ll save time and money while making installation simpler. This approach also helps mitigate the risk of different moisture contents between each stack. Moisture can create dimensional size differences and can result in material imperfections.
Installing deck boards is a great example of this. When each board has a different nominal dimension, it can be difficult to keep the spacing between them even and uniform while maintaining straight lines.
Getting all your material in one go is also good practice to keep your project on time. By limiting the trips it takes to get material on-site, you will save money, reduce stress from finding the right material again to finish the job.
Tip #3: Always Find the Best Deal Possible
Although we often assume that the cheapest option is the best, when it comes to purchasing lumber for your cedar fence, deck, or structure, a “cheap” price isn’t everything. The optimal deal involves finding a balance between reasonable pricing, consistency, and quality control. This means that you should know the average cost of your materials, so you can understand if you are getting value.
Not all sellers are equal; some lumberyards may offer low prices at the cost of lower quality products, and a “business orientated” picking policy, while others maintain the highest quality standards and offer exceptional customer service with free rain to choose the wood you like.
Get the Most Out of Your Outdoor Living Space with These Tips
Save these tips and don’t forget them whenever you are planning any cedar fencing or lumber project. As a homeowner, when it comes to planning your fence, the key lies in finding consistency and excellence. These three tips from a trusted, experienced and professional local fence company will help you do just that. By selecting one supplier, avoiding multiple trips, and seeking the best deal possible, you can achieve success with any fencing project.
If you want help with your new build, Click Here to have one of our owner-operators at Frontline Fencing Ltd. contact you! We provide our prospective clients with a free estimate to ensure the security of a well-completed outdoor living space, cedar fence, or any other quality fabrication on the property.
For expert advice on your project, contact us today at 778-347-9473 or schedule an in-person consultation by clicking here.
FAQS
Why did my cedar fence panels rot so quickly?
When it comes to cedar fencing, there are many reasons rot can occur, such as design style, the way it was installed, or lack of proper maintenance, to name a few. It’s important to create cedar fence panels that will withstand their proximity to the ground and the BC climate. The best fence panels are made of western red cedar with pressure-treated bottoms and a design that doesn’t hold water. It’s also a good idea to perform regular maintenance checks on your fence if you see it getting weathered.
What are some characteristics of a lumberyard or cedar fence supplier with high-quality standards?
A lumberyard or cedar fence supplier with high-quality standards should keep their wood dry, specialize in the type of material they offer,be transparent with the species of wood they are selling, and have an understanding of the lifespan in the BC climate. By following these practices, you can rest assured that they will be able to provide higher quality materials that are more resistant to rot and decay, especially when providing cedar.
How much of a difference can these 3 tips make?
These 3 tips can make a significant difference in the long-term value of your property, as well as the overall curb appeal and peace of mind that comes from having professionally installed cedar fencing or outdoor structures. Taking the time to research suppliers and find the best deal possible will help ensure that your project is completed with quality materials that aid in workmanship. It will also save you money in the long run, avoiding costly repairs.