What does nominal thickness mean?
      Nominal thickness is usually greater than the actual size. This is an industry term used by lumber yards, in effect, rounding up to the next denomination. For example, an average 2 X 4 board is actually only 1.5 inches thick, the nominal thickness is 2 inches. 1 inch boards used to make wood fences are actually only about .65 inches thick.
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What is scant width?
      Scant width is usually about a half an inch more than the actual width. This is another industry term used in lumber yards. In effect, it's rounding up to the next denomination. For example, the same average 2 X 4 is really only 3.5 unches wide, the scant width is 4 inches. 6 inch boards used to make wood fences are actually only 5.5 inches wide.
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Will knots create holes in my fence?
      Knots are more dense and tend to expand and contract less than the surrounding wood. This loosens the bond and causes the knots to fall out and create holes over time. Using Premium grade boards virtually eliminates this problem, though they tend to cost a little more.
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Will nails causes stains in my fence?
      Moisture will increases the likelihood of oxidation in steel nails, and cause dark rust stains to appear in nailed boards over time. Wood tends to hold moisture which expidites the problem. Use double-dipped galvanized or stainless steel fasteners to avoid this problem.
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Can stained wood cleaned?
      Yes. Use Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) or Oxalic Acid to clean the boards. Both should be available at your local hardware store. Be sure to use the right product for the stain. Usually you should use TSP for brown stains and Oxalic Acid for black stains, but ask your retailer for details. Sometimes concrete cleaners can be used to clean wood stains on concreate patios, walkways, or walls.
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Can I use bleach on wood?
      Oxygen-type bleach, but not chlorine type bleach, is great for mildew stains and wood that has been overexposed to sunlight. Once treated with the oxygen-type bleach, the wood should return to its original natural appearance. Some woods contain natural resins that stain and cannot be cleaned by bleach and water. Oxalic Acid can be effective against these type of stains.
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Why do nailed boards split?
      Splitting boards are usually caused by using the wrong nails to secure them. Blunt tipped nails are better for securing wood fencing. Also, avoid over driving nails which causes both splitting and deformaties. Pre-drilling nail holes can help reduce splitting too.
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Why are my fence's top boards warping?
      Expansion and contraction, caused by weather and moisture, can cause wood fences to warp. Backrails should be no more than 8" below and above the fence's top and bottom. Fences taller than 6 feet require a third middle back rail, and 8 foot fences require 4 back rails. Proper back rail spacing will help reduce the fence's natural tendency to warp.
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What else can I do to keep my fence looking new?
      There's no way to completely eliminate wood deterioration, but there are steps you can take to minimize the damage caused by time and the environment:

• Use proper backrail alignment and spacing to avoid premature warping.
• Use double-dipped galvanized, or stainless steel fasteners to secure your fence and minimize rust stains.
• Use a water-repellant solution to treat the surface of your fence and reduce the rate that moisture is absorbed and released in the wood.
• Use a good UV inhibitor solution to avoid premature fence graying.
• Maintain, clean and refinish your fence regularly. Re-treatment may be necessary every 2 to 5 years depending on your climate and environment. Your fence will look much better with regular maintenance.

What is pressure treated wood?
      Pressure treated wood is deep penetrated with preservatives under intense pressure. Pressure treated wood is more resistant to insects, like termites and ants, and decay.
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Should I use pressure treated wood on my fence?
      Pressure treated wood is economical, durable, and easy to work with. It is just as appealing, in most cases, as untreated wood and is readily available in a wide variety of sizes and styles. Pressure treated wood costs slightly more than untreated wood, but is generally well worth it.
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What kind of treated wood is available?
      There are many different types of treated wood. Treatment does not affect the lumber grade, it just makes the wood more durable. Pine is the popular choice for pressure treated wood fences. Pressure treatments on pine wood fences cover the posts, panels, and backrails.
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Is treated wood guaranteed?
      We cannot offer a warranty on the actual wood structuraly, but we do provide a warranty against damage caused by insects and decay. Wood absorbs moisture and swells, then shrinks when it dries. This stresses the wood causing cracks, warping, and graying. Pressure treated wood is subject to these effects as is normal wood.
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