Rail Fencing is Attractive and Functional

Rail fencing is still widely seen today as a means for containing livestock. It is also decorative in its own way and can be used to simply add a rustic touch to a ranch or large outdoor facility. Many different types of wood can be used for this type of product and it is relatively simple to maintain, when compared to other wood options.

Cedar is frequently used for split rail fencing, as it naturally resists or repels insects and other pests that might otherwise destroy the wood. White northern cedar is a common material used for a rustic rail fence used to keep animals in and unwanted creatures out. Occasionally western red cedar is used. Cedar resists rot and maintains its attractive look, unlike other woods, which tend to darken over time.

There are a few different configurations of rail fences that can be used, depending on the situation. The typical post and rail fence uses evenly spaced posts, which are placed fairly deep into the ground. This required a post hole digger to go deep enough to keep the post secure. Rails are then placed inside the notches cut out of the posts, at various heights. While this type of configuration is sturdy, it can occasionally be knocked out of place if shifting of the post occurs.

The zig zag or snake method of installing rail devices is thought to be very secure and is designed for areas where digging is too difficult or where the ground is too sandy. It is a free standing configuration which relies on rails stacked on top of each other on the ends, alternating a rail from one section with that of another, and joining from opposite directions. Posts are then added as braces, to the areas where the wood pieces join, with the use of wire to attach the horizontal wood sections. When completed, the zig zag pattern is clearly evident along the fence line.

Today there are alternative products to the typical wood rail version. Vinyl rail fencing is just as durable, yet has many advantages over wood. It does not rot, so there is no worry about excess moisture or standing water, if it should occur. It is designed to go together in the same manner as wood products in the standard or typical configuration. Vinyl is a substance that cannot be chewed by large animals, so it always looks the sames as it did when first installed.

As an alternative to wood, products made of resin are not designed to imitate the natural look. They come in basic color choices, like white, beige and maybe gray. However, if you want another color, this type of structure can be painted with products formulated for plastic. You then have the advantage of choosing a color that blends in with the natural environment or one that can be coordinated to match barns and other outdoor structures. Whether you choose a cedar wood or a vinyl product, proper installation is the key to a great looking barrier that will last for years to come.

photo credit: aithom2

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