It seems simple to select the ideal wood for our fencing needs. However, using wood is not the best option because so many things can go wrong. Warping that occurs earlier than anticipated is one of the main issues we can run into.
Fence boards generally warp for a variety of reasons. The main one is moisture that seeps into fence boards and alters their structure. As a result, it is crucial to take preventative steps to ensure that no fence boards warp or consult with Aluminum Fence Installation in Essex Fells, NJ.
Why Do Fence Warps?
The fibers that makeup trees love to soak up water to be used later when it gets thirsty. Even after being felled for the construction of houses, decks, or fences, trees can still hold onto that water. And occasionally, they have a good memory for it.
The wood boards will eventually want to return to the ability to absorb the same moisture level as those who did when they were fully submerged in water after being cut.
You can minimize this absorption and subsequent movement of the wood by working with and treating it after it has dried out as much as possible.
Wood fibers technically move radially but also tangentially to absorb water. The width of a board changes more than twice as much as the thickness because wood moves tangentially twice as much as it does radially. As a result, they are capable of warping or bending into curved shapes. Wood Fence Westchester County NY, can help prevent this warping.
How to Prevent It?
1. Buy Good Materials
Some kinds of wood normally absorb less water, decreasing the likelihood of warping.
These woods include cedar, known for its wonderful scent and the way it naturally deters pests like termites. One of the thickest wood types, that aids in its resistance to warping.
Redwood is another excellent choice because it contains a natural chemical that prevents it from moisture absorption on its own. Additionally, it has a reasonably straight grain pattern that helps prevent warping.
Finally, Fir is a comparable choice because whenever its moisture content is similar to its surroundings, it is generally stable. Compared to other types of trees, the stage when there is no change in moisture absorption is much more stable in Fir.
2. Think About Pressure-Treated Wood
Picking wood with the right amount of preservatives and chemicals is ideal. These are useful if we want to keep pests away or live in an area with extreme weather. The wood’s resistance to rot is aided by pressure treatment.
3. Use A Sealant
Sealing the wood as soon as possible after it has adequately dried and reached the ideal equilibrium moisture content (EMC) level is best. A fantastic choice is a pigmented sealer. It has both practical and attractive purposes.
4. Heat The Boards in a Thermally Insulated Container
We do not know the procedures someone uses to ensure the wood is dry when we buy it from them. For this reason, it is recommended that we let our wood fully dry out first before utilizing it for fence posts or boards. Thankfully, wood that has undergone pressure treatment is typically dried in a thermally insulated container.
Conclusion
When working with wood, warping can be a common issue. Additionally, many producers believe it is crucial to keep warping to a minimum, particularly when the finished product’s structural integrity or aesthetics are crucial.
Wood’s behavior changes as it adapts to various environments and humidity levels due to various factors. But by being aware of these typical reasons for warping and how to avoid it, you will be better able to anticipate how your wood will change over time or consult a service of Aluminum Fence Installation Essex Fells NJ.
