Need a redwood fence contractor in sacramento? Let’s be honest, adding a sturdy redwood fence can dramatically boost your home’s curb appeal and keep your backyard private. Redwood is known for its warm color tones, natural durability, and eco-friendly benefits, which make it especially popular if you’re living in the Sacramento area. From understanding fence height rules to finding the right wood grade, there’s a lot to consider. This ultimate guide covers all the details you need, including how to pick the ideal fencing contractor, tackle height regulations, and stay on top of routine maintenance. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll feel fully equipped to plan your redwood fence installation with confidence.
Explore Redwood Fences In Sacramento
You might wonder, why pick redwood in Sacramento? First, let’s talk about climate. Sacramento’s mild Mediterranean weather creates warm summers and rainy winters that can be tough on some fencing materials. Redwood naturally handles humidity and fluctuating temperatures. Thanks to its resistance to rot, pests, and moisture, redwood typically outlasts many other wood types in this region.
However, recent high winds and storms have increased demand for fencing materials in the Sacramento area. According to a report (ABC 10), many fences collapsed, which led to a shortage of lumber, including redwood. Throw in COVID-19 production slowdowns, local wildfires, and supply chain issues, and you’ve got a recipe for increased redwood prices. That means you may see higher costs than in previous years, yet homeowners still favor redwood for its performance and timeless look.
Another reason redwood stands out is its environmental advantage. Redwood fences can help reduce your carbon footprint by using fewer chemical treatments than other materials, and they typically maintain soil health. As noted by Palisade Fence Company, redwood is naturally resistant to pests and rot, which means you’ll avoid heavy pesticide use. Plus, a tall redwood fence can reduce soil erosion in hilly areas, proving that this material does more than simply frame your yard.
All that said, installing a redwood fence in Sacramento does require planning. You’ll need to follow local codes for height restrictions and property line rules. Even though Redwood is a near-perfect choice for Northern California weather, you want to make sure it’s done right. Let’s keep going with a closer look at redwood grades, plus tips on picking a fence contractor you can trust.
Compare Redwood Grades
Just like any natural material, redwood comes in various grades. These grades reflect the wood’s strength, appearance, and how well it withstands weather. Picking the right grade prevents headaches down the road, so let’s break down the three main types:
Redwood Con Common
If you’re after a balance of affordability and beauty, Construction Common (Con Common) is worth a look. Con Common is sourced from the outer edges of the log, so the boards often show knots and color variations. These imperfections give your fence a rustic feel. However, because the wood is more porous, you’ll need to be mindful when it touches the ground. A simple fix is adding a kickboard to lift it off damp soil.
- Affordable price point.
- Cool color variations (ivory, tan, brown, pink, red).
- Needs extra attention if placed directly on soil.
Redwood Con Heart
Con Heart is cut closer to the tree’s center, so it’s less knotty, more uniform in color, and higher in natural pest resistance. It can safely rest on the ground, making it an excellent option if your fence is near lawns or in damp areas.
- Fewer knots, smoother texture.
- Improved rot and pest resistance.
- Costs around 20 percent more than Con Common.
Redwood Clear Heart
Clear Heart is the priciest of the bunch, but it’s also the most premium. You’ll notice almost no knots or sapwood, and the uniform tone looks downright dreamy. This grade is perfect if you want to make a statement and can budget for the extra cost.
- Virtually free of knots.
- Requires minimal maintenance for top-tier aesthetics.
- Harder to find and more expensive.
Picking the right grade boils down to what matters most to you: if you want pure visual perfection and have the budget, go for Clear Heart. If you’re aiming for a solid blend of looks and cost, Con Heart is a crowd-pleaser. For rustic charm and a tighter budget, Con Common is a trusty go-to.
Prepare For Your Redwood Fence
Before you break ground on your fence project, it’s essential to handle a few logistics. Sacramento County has specific rules on fence height and location, plus property line nuances. Let’s go through some of the key prep steps.
Confirm Property Lines
In Sacramento, fences do not mark legal property boundaries. That means your existing fence might not sit exactly where the legal boundary is. The only surefire way to know your property line is to hire a surveyor. According to Sacramento County Code Enforcement, the county won’t settle fence placement disputes, so you’ll want to handle that on your own or with your neighbors.
Check Fence Height Restrictions
Sacramento’s rules vary based on whether your fence sits in the front yard or the side/back yard. In most RD-zoned areas, back and side fences can go up to seven feet tall without special permits (Sacramento County). For front yards, it’s more restrictive:
- 3 feet for solid front yard fences.
- 4 feet for chain link or similar materials.
- Up to 7 feet if it’s open ornamental like wrought iron.
If you have a corner property or an intersection nearby, your fence should allow for visibility. The Department of Transportation enforces standard visibility lines near intersections.
Understand Decorative Elements
Fancy decorations, such as lattice toppers, count toward the total fence height. Sacramento County Code Enforcement does allow them with permits or variances in some cases, but you can’t just tack lattice on top and expect it to be legal if it surpasses permissible limits. Planning your fence design with these rules in mind saves you from a code enforcement citation later.
Check Local Permit Requirements
Depending on your fence’s height and location, you may or may not need a permit. If you’re unsure, take a moment to review the Sacramento fence permit regulations before calling your contractor. It’s always better to double-check than to deal with trouble once the fence is halfway built.
Pick A Trusted Contractor
Yes, you could tackle a DIY fence. But if you’d rather ensure a professional job, a reliable redwood fence contractor is critical. When searching for a redwood fence contractor in the Sacramento area, look at these factors:
- Local Experience: A Sacramento-based contractor understands county codes, weather patterns, and soil conditions better than an out-of-town company. Palisade Fence Company highlights how local contractors offer personalized support and faster service.
- Material Quality: Does your contractor partner with reputable suppliers? High-quality redwood is essential, especially with the region’s demand for sturdy fences after storm damages.
- Transparent Communication: Look for a contractor who’s upfront about costs, lead times, and scheduling. Detailed quotes minimize surprises down the road.
- One-Stop Approach: Some fence specialists, such as Palisade Fence Company, handle both supply and installation. Hiring a single source helps you avoid coordinating multiple vendors.
Don’t forget to ask about references or to see past fence projects. You can learn a lot by seeing how their previous work has held up over time. Neighbors, online review platforms, and local home improvement forums can also help you find real feedback.
Install Your Redwood Fence
So you’ve picked a contractor (or chosen a DIY path), measured your property lines, and settled on the ideal redwood grade. Now it’s time to walk through the fence-building process.
1. Mark Your Layout
Start by measuring along your property line and hammering in stakes where each fence post should go. Use string or twine to keep everything aligned. Double-check your spacing. Most fence posts are spaced roughly 6 to 8 feet apart, but it depends on your chosen fence style.
2. Dig Your Post Holes
Your contractor (or you, if you’re DIY-ing) will dig holes for the posts. The depth usually runs about one-third of the total fence height. For example, if you want a 6-foot fence, your holes might go 2 feet deep. Sacramento’s soil can be compact in some areas, so renting an auger might speed up the job.
3. Set The Posts
Place fence posts in each hole and fill the hole with concrete. Most pros recommend at least one full bag of concrete per post to ensure stability (Citrus Heights Fence Company). Make sure the posts are level, then let them dry for at least a day before attaching rails.
4. Attach Rails (Horizontal Supports)
Next, attach the horizontal rails. Many fences have two rails: a top and bottom rail. Some designs, like board-on-board or horizontal fences, may require an additional middle rail or thicker cap rails. Pine 2×4 rails treated for moisture work well as support beams for redwood pickets.
5. Install The Pickets
This is where your redwood shows off. You can choose classic vertical pickets, board-on-board for complete privacy, or a contemporary horizontal style. Nail or screw each board into the rails, leaving a small gap (about the size of a nail head) if you want space for expansion.
6. Add Finishing Touches
Some fences get a kickboard along the bottom for added durability, particularly if you have Redwood Con Common. You can also install a cap rail or lattice topper for an elegant touch. If you’re going for ultimate privacy, board-on-board with a cap rail is a popular standard in the Sacramento region.
Once everything is in place, give it a final check for stability, consistent picket spacing, and level lines. Congratulations, you’re now staring at your new redwood fence.
Maintain Your Redwood Fence
Redwood fences are known for their long life, but they still need regular TLC to stay gorgeous and strong for years.
Clean It Periodically
At least once a year, clean your fence. A quick rinse with a garden hose gets rid of dust or cobwebs. If you’ve got deeper stains or mold, a gentle wood cleaner helps lift the grime without damaging the wood. Go easy on the pressure washer, though, because too much pressure can splinter or erode the surface.
Consider Sealing Or Staining
Redwood naturally has some water resistance, but a clear sealant or stain can prolong its color and keep it from graying. If you like the silver patina look, you can skip the stain, although some homeowners seal the wood anyway to protect it from UV rays. When applying sealant or stain, use smooth, even strokes and avoid drips.
Inspect After Storms
Sacramento occasionally experiences heavy rain or wind events. After each storm, walk your fence line and search for loose boards, cracks, or wobbly posts. Prompt fixes will prevent further damage and keep your fence robust.
Handle Minor Repairs
Even the toughest redwood can form small cracks or show slight warping. You’ll want to patch, replace, or nail down loose boards. If you need more extensive work, or if your fence was a casualty of a major storm, a professional fence repair sacramento service can help you out.
Weigh Pros, Cons, And Costs
Like all building materials, redwood has plenty of upsides, but also a few drawbacks. Before you commit, here’s a quick overview of why (and why not) it might be your best bet.
Pros Of Redwood
- Excellent Durability: Resistant to rot, insects, and decay.
- Warm Aesthetic: Rich natural color that suits nearly every home style.
- Eco-Friendly: Requires fewer chemical treatments and fosters local biodiversity.
- Great Resale Value: Well-built redwood fences can boost property value.
Cons Of Redwood
- Higher Upfront Cost: Redwood is pricier than some alternatives, especially Clear Heart.
- Potential Supply Issues: Local demand can keep prices high and availability low.
- Maintenance Required: Occasional staining or sealing helps your fence look its best.
Typical Price Ranges
The exact price depends on lumber grades, fence height, design style, and your contractor’s labor fees. On the low end, you might spend around $20 to $25 per linear foot for a simple redwood fence using Con Common. For better redwood grades or more elaborate styles, that cost can climb to $35 or more per linear foot. Because lumber prices fluctuate, chat with contractors about current market rates and try to lock in a fair quote.
If you’re still exploring your budget, check out privacy fence cost sacramento 2025 to see how redwood prices fare relative to other fencing options. Being realistic about costs will help you finalize your plan without any sticker shock.
Consider Alternative Fencing Options
Redwood is fantastic, but it’s not the only game in town. Sacramento homeowners often weigh vinyl or iron fences too.
- Vinyl: Vinyl fences resist rot, insects, and weather, plus they’re super low-maintenance. However, they might lack the warm look you get from real wood.
- Iron (or Aluminum): If you value security, an iron or aluminum fence can combine safety with stylish lines. Yet it may provide less privacy than a solid wood fence.
For a deeper look at how redwood compares to other materials, you can explore our redwood vs vinyl vs iron fence sacramento guide. That resource helps you weigh each fencing material’s pros, cons, and cost differences.
FAQs For Redwood Fences
People have plenty of questions when planning a new fence. Here are five of the most common FAQs from homeowners in Sacramento.
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How do I handle property line disputes before building a fence?
Always hire a surveyor if you’re unsure where your property line officially sits. Sacramento County Code Enforcement won’t solve boundary disputes, so getting a professional survey is the safest route. -
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot backyard fence?
Fences up to 7 feet tall are often allowed without needing a special permit if they’re in the side or rear yard of an RD zone. Still, you should review current Sacramento fence permit regulations to confirm. -
How often should I stain or seal my redwood fence?
Every 2 to 3 years is a common guideline. However, your fence’s exposure to sunlight, wind, and rain can dictate what’s best. Keep an eye out for fading or dryness in the wood. -
Will redwood fencing fade in color?
Redwood gradually turns a grayish hue if left untreated. Some folks appreciate that rustic patina, while others prefer to seal or stain the wood to retain its richer red shade. -
Are redwood fences really sustainable?
Yes. Redwood’s natural resistance to decay means fewer chemicals, plus it supports local habitats by acting as a barrier against soil erosion. Experts like Palisade Fence Company also note that redwood surfaces encourage climbing plants and mosses that help improve biodiversity.
Wrap Up Your Plans
Settling on a redwood fence in Sacramento can be a game-changer for your home’s look, privacy, and property value. Redwood’s long list of benefits, from eco-friendliness to impressive resilience, makes it a popular choice across Northern California. But it’s still important to pin down details like fence height limits, local property line rules, and your chosen grade of redwood.
If you’re excited to get started, make a list of your must-haves and talk them over with your contractor. Double-check your budget, fence design, and county rules so that your project runs smoothly from day one. And don’t forget ongoing care. A quick annual clean or periodic reseal helps your fence keep that signature redwood glow.
In the end, a thoughtfully built redwood fence truly adds value to your Sacramento home. It reflects the city’s laid-back lifestyle while offering year-round durability. Whether you’re aiming for a classic, warm design or a modern masterpiece, you can plan your redwood fence to match your taste and your space. By following the right steps, you’ll soon be relaxing in your backyard with total peace of mind—knowing you made the perfect choice for your property.
