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Fact: All lumber, regardless of the species of wood, will eventually split or crack
Reason:
Lumber is a porous material. Wood swells when it absorbs moisture from rain or Snow and shrinks when the sun’s heat releases the moisture. This drying process creates stresses in the wood which are often relieved by warping, splitting, and cracking.
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Fact: The natural drying process causes shrinkage, warping and twisting
Reason:
In the installed climate, wood cells lose their natural water content to the air, which causes shrinkage and movement.
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Fact: Splitting can occur near the end of a piece of wood when installed.
Reason:
Nails can cause the wood fibers to split. Additionally, the ends of a board dry quicker than the middle. This stress can cause splits.
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Fact: Gaps will develop between pickets and boards.
Reason:
Every piece of wood is constantly taking on or giving off moisture in an attempt to reach the same humidity level as the surrounding atmosphere. During long dry periods, boards will shrink, leaving gaps. Additionally, during periods of heavy rain, the wood expands and the gaps will close.
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Fact: Water repellent board will initially shrink when installed.
Reason:
All ACQ treated lumber, including water repellent, will internally dry during the first 60 to 90 days after installation. This drying process will lead to shrinkage and some checking on the boards.
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Fact: Nail heads of nails driven into fencing will eventually rust and “streaking” will occur down the face of the pickets or boards
Reason:
When nails are driven into a piece of wood, usually the hammer knocks off the galvanized coating on the head of the nail. Eventually, the streaking caused by the rusting of the nail head will blend with the weathered gray of the wood.
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Fact: Wood changes color as it ages.
Reason:
Many species turn gray, and some turn silver or almost black. This is a natural reaction to the aging process.
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Fact: All wood fence weight and sizes can only be approximate.
Reason:
Variation in moisture content and industry standards.