WHY WE USE WESTERN RED CEDAR IN TUTTLE & NEWCASTLE, OK
DENSITY
One of the lightest commercial softwoods, the density of Western Red Cedar at oven-dry conditions is approximately 21 pounds per cubic foot with a relative density (specific gravity) of 0.32.
DIMENSIONAL STABILITY
Like all woods, Western Red Cedar is hygroscopic and will absorb or discharge moisture to attain equilibrium with the surrounding atmosphere. However, it has a very low shrinkage factor and is superior to all other coniferous woods in its resistance to warping, twisting and checking.
ACOUSTICAL PROPERTIES
Sound Barrier, Yes it’s true, cedar helps block sound! A solid plank cedar fence forms a highly effective sound barrier, blocking up to 70% of sound! This is almost the same amount of sound cement blocks, not to mention that is a lot more beautiful.
An important acoustical property of cedar is its ability to damp vibrations. Western Red Cedar has a cellular network of minute interlocking pores which converts sound energy into heat by frictional and viscoelastic resistance. Because of the high internal friction created by the cellular pore network, wood has more sound damping capacity than most structural materials. Cedar fencing can dampen road noise and can provide effective economical sound insulation and absorption when properly utilized. Western Red Cedar is particularly effective in this regard and can be used to help reduce noise or to confine it to certain areas.
DURABILITY
Cedar is one of the most durable woods. This wood offers great performance against the elements, making it durable over a long period of time. You won’t worry about warping or shrinkage with this fence. Cedar is also fully bio-degradable and is an extremely economically friendly choice.
Historically, native peoples of the Pacific coast prized cedar for its long lasting qualities and used wood and bark from cedar trees for most of their building needs. Evidence of cedar’s durability are the many cedar artifacts still in good condition today. Properly finished and maintained, cedar will deliver decades of trouble-free service. If exposed for prolonged periods to conditions where decay could be a factor, such as where the wood is in contact with the ground, cedar should be treated with suitable wood preservatives.
FINISHING
Although cedar is a naturally durable species, leaving it untreated is not recommended because a finish or protective coating will greatly increase its service life. Cedar is free of pitch and with its high degree of dimensional stability, it is the best of the softwoods for accepting paints, stains, oils and other coatings. Get more information here on staining and sealing your fence for more information.
BUG REPELLENT
Cedar contains natural oils, which acts as a natural deterrent against rotting and insect infestation. In addition to being a natural deterrent, cedar does not require chemical treatments! her
TEMPERATURE MODERATOR
Seems unbelievable, however, cedar can help temper the extremes of winter and summer! In winter, air pockets inside the wood help block cold gusts of wind. In summer, those air pockets help dissipate heat. Cedar will not get hot to the touch in the heat of summer; it will remain cool to the touch, even in direct sunlight!
STYLES OF CEDAR FENCE
Split Rail
Split-rail wood fences and other wood fence designs marked by rough and rugged posts and rails have long been a favorite with Ranch-style houses and Landscape designs with a Southwestern theme.
PICKET-STYLE
Picket-style fencing is a natural fit for Cottage-style homes and Landscape designs like English cottage gardens.
SHADOWBOX
The shadowbox style uses alternating panels across the back and front to give the fence the same look on both sides. This is an ideal “neighborly” fence style since a person on the other side will have a pleasant view of it as well. These fences are generally 6′. They have the look of a full containment fence but also allow more air circulation.
SOLID OR PRIVACY
The solid or privacy style, when used as containment fencing, allows for complete privacy. It is commonly used to surround swimming pools and between property lines. It may also be used to hide ugly areas or to hide a major road from sight. These fences are generally 6′-8′ tall and use very closely-spaced pickets which may vary in style. The styles may be a basic dog-ear style to a pointed top or more elaborate design.
CAP & TRIM OPTIONS
Cap and trim is a beautiful addition to your new fence project however, it provides more than an aesthetic function. The top cap is a 2″ x 6″ board that is added on top of the posts of a board on board fence that creates more depth and puts a nice finish to an already beautiful fence. The trim is a 1″ x 4″ board that is placed under the top cap to add a nice decorative “trim” and a clean finished edge. One of the reasons that homeowners love this fence option is because of its inherent durability. The design itself, with a 2×6 or 2×8 cap and a 1×4 or 1×2 cedar trim, prevents moisture from being drawn into the tops and bottoms of the pickets. This barrier allows your fence to have a much longer life, and limits any potential water damage to the cap and trim, which can be easily repaired if needed.