Wood Fences – Natural Character, Proportion, and Craft
Wood fencing is defined by its character. No two boards are identical, and no installation is ever truly repeated. When selected thoughtfully and installed with discipline, wood offers warmth, depth, and architectural presence unmatched by synthetic materials. When treated casually, it becomes short-lived and visually inconsistent. At Tijou, wood is approached as a craft material—not a commodity.
What Defines a Quality Wood Fence
A true wood fence is not defined by appearance alone. Its longevity and performance are
determined by selection, preparation, and execution.
Material Selection and Grading
Quality wood fencing begins with careful evaluation of species characteristics and grading.
Density, grain structure, moisture content, and overall consistency directly influence how the
fence will perform over time. Proper selection ensures stability, strength, and a controlled aging
process.
Drying and Conditioning
Wood that has not been properly dried and conditioned will move excessively after installation.
Controlled moisture content reduces warping, twisting, and checking, allowing the fence to settle naturally rather than fight against its environment.
Dimensional Accuracy
Consistent milling ensures straight lines, proper spacing, and uniform shadow lines.
Inconsistently milled boards introduce visual noise and structural imbalance.
Finish and Protection
A properly finished wood fence is protected against moisture intrusion, ultraviolet exposure, and surface degradation. Finish is not decorative—it is functional, and it plays a critical role in
longevity.
We work only with wood sources and finishing systems that meet our standards for consistency,
performance, and long-term behavior. 
The Importance of Proper Installation
Wood rewards precision and punishes shortcuts.
Unlike synthetic materials, wood responds continuously to its environment. Installation must
account for movement, drainage, and long-term structural loading.
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Post Setting and Structural Support Posts must be set to proper depth and alignment to resist wind load and seasonal ground movement. A wood fence is only as stable as its foundation. -
Spacing and Movement AllowanceWood expands and contracts. Proper spacing allows boards to move naturally without buckling, splitting, or creating pressure points. -
Fastening Discipline Fastener selection and placement are critical. Wood must be secured in a way that maintains holding strength while accommodating natural movement over time. -
Drainage and Ground Contact Improper ground contact accelerates deterioration. Correct clearance and drainage details protect the fence from premature decay.
At Tijou, wood installation follows strict internal guidelines developed to balance structural
integrity with natural material behavior.
Environmental Considerations
Wood performs best when its environment is understood and respected. Moisture, sun exposure, and airflow all influence how a wood fence ages. With proper material
selection, finishing, and installation, wood can perform reliably across a wide range of
conditions.Wood is not static—it evolves. The goal is not to prevent change, but to guide it gracefully.
The Tijou Standard
Wood demands experience, judgment, and restraint.
Every wood fence installed under the Tijou name is evaluated for:
- Material formulation and consistency
- Structural density and support
- Installation precision
- Long-term environmental suitability
We do not treat wood as disposable.
We do not rush its installation.
A Tijou wood fence is not installed to look finished on day one.
It is installed to age correctly.