Spruce Fences Are Affordable, But Consider These Things Before Installing One

A sleek border for your property can improve the curb appeal and value of your home, but you might fret over the cost of installing a wood fence. That's why many homeowners turn to spruce fencing material, a more cost-effective option for someone with a limited budget. Look for pre-assembled panels of spruce fencing at home and garden stores, which will further reduce costs by saving you money on labor and installation.

However, it's important to consider all the facts before deciding to install a spruce fence. While the price point is fantastic, spruce is not ideal for damp areas, is susceptible to insect damage, and needs regular maintenance for the best results. But if you're looking for a simple fence with a basic look for a property line or backyard, spruce might do the trick. Just be prepared to handle its quirks when they appear.

If you're considering putting in a spruce fence but living in a damp climate, you might want to think again. Spruce is much less durable than other types of wood, such as cedar and redwood, when it comes to moisture resistance over time. Spruce is a type of wood that is prone to warping. Unless your fence has natural resistance, you can expect it to grow mold, mildew, and eventually rot. For those who live in areas that receive more rainfall, you could find yourself with a fence that is decaying very quickly. Mold and mildew growth is common in areas with lots of rain.

Spruce also does not have natural insect resistance, which can mean more wear and tear than other wood fences. When given the choice, insects will choose spruce over cedar. Certain types of cedar can last 15 to 30 years untreated, whereas insects will quickly attack untreated spruce wood. So, when comparing the different types of wooden fences, consider whether insects have ever caused issues on your property. To keep a spruce wood fence protected against insects, regular staining and treating is necessary. If you neglect to spend the time on this step every couple of years, you could face an infestation. Infestations will weaken the wood and can eventually destroy a fence if left alone long enough.

To keep a spruce fence looking great over many years, you need to put in the time to take care of it. Painting, staining, and sealing a spruce fence will help improve the overall durability and longevity of it. Although it doesn't have natural resistance to insects or decay, stains or sealants, like Seal-Once Marine Premium Wood Sealer, can protect the wood and imbue it with more resistant qualities. You should follow these wooden fence maintenance tips to keep it pristine year-round.

Of course, many homeowners look into installing a spruce fence to save money. So, it's best to know upfront that you could spend more on maintenance and repair costs in the long run than you would have on the initial installation of a better-quality product. If you enjoy the light color and classic appearance of spruce or just want a simple, shorter-term property barrier, spruce can be a good fit. A well-cared-for cedar fence can last 15 to 20 years, while the life expectancy of a well-maintained spruce fence is only four to seven years. Just be sure to anticipate how much you will spend on maintenance and labor over time — and possibly even replacement.