Not Your Average Wood: Rough Cut Cedar Fence Posts Near Me (And My Dad’s Dad’s Dad)
If you are in search of the best fence posts, you won’t want to settle for the average, run-of-the-mill options. The standard treated pine or spruce posts may have been the norm for the past few decades, but when it comes to long-lasting and stylish fencing, rough cut cedar fence posts are the way to go. Not only do they offer a unique aesthetic to your property, but they also come with a plethora of functional benefits.
Here, we will dive into why rough cut cedar fence posts are worth your investment and where to find them near you. We will discuss how cedar has been used throughout history and its many impressive qualities, along with quick tips for installation and maintenance.
The Benefits of Rough Cut Cedar Fence Posts
Rough cut cedar fence posts are an excellent option for those who want a unique and durable fence. Made from the heartwood of cedar trees, these posts have a lot to offer.
- Durability and Longevity
Cedar is naturally resistant to decay and insect damage, making it an ideal material for fencing. It doesn’t require chemical treatments, making it an eco-friendly option. Cedar’s durability allows fence posts to last for years, even when exposed to rain, snow, or extreme heat.
- Character and Style
Rough cut cedar fence posts have a unique texture and a warm, earthy color that adds character to any property. Each post has a distinctive grain pattern and natural knots, making it a highly sought-after material for fencing projects.
- Stability and Strength
Cedar fence posts are exceptionally sturdy and stable, making them a great option for areas subject to high winds, storms, or other extreme weather conditions. The low-density nature of cedar makes it resistant to warping and splitting, ensuring that your fence will remain secure for years to come.
- Easy Maintenance
Cedar fencing is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and stain application to retain its natural beauty. Cedar’s natural oils also provide a level of protection against fading, mold, and mildew, so there’s no need to spend countless hours or dollars on maintenance.
How Cedar Was Used Throughout History
Cedar has a long and impressive history of use, dating back thousands of years. Its durability and resistance to decay made it an essential material for building, shipbuilding, and even medicinal purposes.
- Native American Uses
Native Americans used cedar to create everything from clothing to baskets, totem poles, and canoes. They also believed that the tree’s smoke had healing properties and used cedar oil for spiritual cleansing.
- Building and Shipbuilding
Because of its incredible durability, cedar was used in building everything from homes to temples to ships. The famous boatbuilder, Joshua Slocum, used cedar to build his world-famous sloop, The Spray.
- Medicinal Uses
Cedar has been used throughout history for medicinal purposes. The ancient Egyptians used cedar oils in the embalming process, while the Greeks used it to treat everything from rheumatism to coughs. Today, cedar oils and extracts can be found in a wide range of natural remedies, from insect repellents to skincare products.
Finding Rough Cut Cedar Fence Posts Near You
Now that you’re convinced that rough cut cedar is the way to go for your fencing needs, the question is, where can you find high-quality cedar fence posts near you?
- Local Lumber Yards
One of the best options is to visit a local lumber yard. Many lumber yards carry rough cut cedar fence posts or can custom mill the posts to your specifications.
- Online Retailers
Another option is to browse online for retailers who specialize in cedar fencing. Online retailers can offer a wide variety of sizes and shapes of fencing materials, including customized posts.
- DIY Cedar Fence Posts
If you’re a DIY enthusiast or live near a forest, you may consider harvesting and milling your own cedar fence posts.
Quick Tips for Installation and Maintenance
Now that you have your rough cut cedar fence posts, here are quick tips to ensure a proper installation and maintenance:
- Installation
Make sure to dig the proper size hole for your fence post. The generally recommended size is a hole two to three times the diameter of the post. Additionally, consider using a concrete footing to ensure stability.
- Maintenance
Cedar fencing requires minimal maintenance, but taking care of it ensures its longevity. We recommend cleaning the fence with a mild detergent and water at least once a year. Additionally, applying a clear coat to the fence post will protect it from UV rays and prevent fading.
Conclusion
Rough cut cedar fence posts are not your average wood, but they offer unique benefits when it comes to fencing and property aesthetics. Cedar has a long history of use for various purposes, making it a wise investment for those looking for durable and long-lasting fencing options. With proper installation and maintenance, cedar fence posts can last for many years, providing both functional and aesthetic value to your property.
Table: Comparison of Cedar and Pine/Spruce Fence Posts
Cedar Fence Posts | Pine/Spruce Fence Posts | |
---|---|---|
Durability | Naturally decay and insect-resistant | Requires chemical treatments |
Appearance | Naturally warm color and unique texture | Uniform, less character and style |
Longevity | Can last up to 30 years | Shorter lifespan |
Stability | Resistant to warping and splitting | Prone to warping and splitting |
Maintenance | Minimal maintenance required | Regular maintenance required |
References
- Anderson, M. (2006). Cedar: Tree of Life to the Northwest Coast Indians. Douglas & McIntyre.
- Cedar. (n.d.). In Encyclopædia Britannica online. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/plant/cedar-tree.
- Johnson, K. M. (2014). A Cedar-Fencing Guide: The Pros & Cons of Cedar Wood Fencing. The Fence Authority.
- Sickler, J. (2020). Cedar vs Pine: Which Is Best for Insect and Rot Resistance? Wood. It’s Real.