Is Wood Fence Boards Shrinking Normal: What Sacramento Homeowners Need to Know
Do Wood Fence Boards Shrink After Installation?
Yes, wood fence boards shrink as they dry out after installation. This shrinkage is a natural process and is especially noticeable with species like redwood and cedar, which are popular choices for Sacramento fences. If not properly accounted for, this shrinkage can surprise homeowners.
How Fast Do Fence Boards Start to Shrink?
Shrinkage begins almost immediately as wood begins losing moisture. Most boards, especially if installed green (not pre-dried), will shrink the most within the first few weeks to a couple of months. The process is faster during hot, dry summers, which are typical in the Sacramento area.
How Much Will a 6-Inch Board Shrink?
A typical “6-inch” board (actually 5.5″ wide) can lose between 1/8” and 1/2″ in width as it dries, depending on wood type and weather exposure. For example, redwood and cedar shrink less than pine; pressure-treated lumber can shrink even more.
What Happens When Fence Boards Shrink?
As the wood contracts, gaps appear between boards. This can mean less privacy, a change in appearance, and—if large enough—spaces that let pets or debris through. While some homeowners accept the rustic look, others find these gaps undesirable for a privacy fence.
Can You Prevent Wood Fence Gaps?
Shrinkage is inevitable with wood fencing—it cannot be fully prevented, regardless of the wood species or installation method. That said, smart design and installation can minimize gaps and their impact. At Fantastic Fence, we install the fence boards as close together as possible at the time of installation to minimize the gaps in the next few weeks as they dry and shrink.
Is It a Good Idea to Use Pre-Dried Fence Boards?
While it might sound like a solution, using fully pre-dried or kiln-dried fence boards is usually a poor choice. Pre-dried boards are very expensive and, if installed completely dry, they will absorb moisture when the Sacramento winter rains arrive. This causes the boards to swell, forcing them to press tightly together—possibly warping, curling, or even popping boards off the rails.
Which Wood Species Shrink Least?
Redwood and cedar are the best choices for minimal shrinkage and movement. They are naturally more stable than pine, which is much more prone to shrinking and warping. Redwood’s unique cell structure helps it withstand both summer heat and winter dampness with less movement than other species in the Sacramento, CA area.
Can Wood Expand Again After Drying?
Yes. Wood absorbs and releases moisture continuously. During dry summers, boards shrink; in damp winter months, they can expand again. If installed when fully dry, sudden expansion can press boards against each other and cause damage.
How Can You Reduce Fence Board Gaps?
- Choose stable species like redwood or cedar
- Install pickets tightly or use a board-on-board style to hide future gaps
- Seal or finish the wood for slower, gentler moisture exchange
What Is A Board-on-Board Fence?
Board-on-board fences use overlapping pickets to prevent any gaps! If shrinkage causes a gap in the front row, the overlapped boards behind keep the fence private and free of visible openings. This design is recommended for anyone concerned about long-term privacy. Board on board overlap of pickets is very popular with people that have pools in their backyards and neighbors that both have pets. When the dogs are not able to see each other through the fence, they tend to bark and fight less at the fence line.
Are Climate and Fence Orientation Important?
Absolutely. Local climate has a huge influence on wood movement. Fences in full sun and dry conditions—especially on the south and west sides—will shrink more, with gaps appearing more quickly. Shaded or north-facing fences may see less shrinkage but are more vulnerable to expansion when wet. Sacramento’s hot summers and mild, wet winters mean fences here go through wide moisture swings each year.
Are Shrinkage and Gaps Covered by Warranty?
Because shrinkage and wood movement are normal and inevitable, they are generally not covered by fencing warranties. No contractor—including Fantastic Fence—can guarantee a totally gap-free wood fence over time.
Conclusion: What Homeowners Should Expect
All wood fences shrink, but proper planning—like material selection and installation methods—helps keep gaps under control. Redwoods and cedar are best, overlap pickets where privacy matters, and expect some seasonal movement as long as the fence stands. With the right information and expectations, Sacramento homeowners can enjoy beautiful, functional fences for years to come.