When you’re investing in a new wood fence for your San Antonio home, the quality of the lumber is one of the biggest factors that determines how long your fence will last. Unfortunately, many fence contractors in the area don’t actually stock their materials on-site. That means homeowners never get to see the lumber they’re paying for — and often end up with lower-grade wood that warps, bows, or deteriorates quickly in our South Texas climate.
That’s why one of the smartest things you can do is visit the shop before you hire a fence company. A reputable San Antonio fence contractor should have lumber available for you to view anytime during business hours… and be willing to explain exactly what you’re getting.
Here’s what to look for when you stop by.
- Inspect the Posts: Treated Pine Should Look “Greenish”
For most wood fences in San Antonio, 4×4 treated pine posts are the standard. When you view them in person, you should notice:
- A green or greenish tint
- Hairline cracks (normal from drying)
- Heaviness from the treatment solution
These posts arrive from the mill “wet” and loaded with preservative. As they dry, they may show minor cracking or slight shrinkage — this is completely normal. What you don’t want is extremely dry, brittle, or visibly warped posts.
- Gate Lumber Should Be Lightweight — Never Heavy Treated Pine
Gate frames need to stay lightweight to prevent sagging. Any professional fence company in San Antonio will tell you:
❌ Do NOT use treated pine 2x4s for gate frames — they’re too heavy.
✔️ Use Kiln-Dried SPF (Spruce/Pine/Fir) or Cedar 2x4s instead.
A lighter gate means:
- Easier operation
- Longer lifespan
- Less stress on hinges and latches
Speaking of hardware — quality gates today use powder-coated hinges and latches, not painted ones. Powder coating holds up better in our hot, humid Texas weather.
- Review the Cedar Pickets: Choose Western Red Cedar
Most higher-quality wood fences are made from Western Red Cedar, sourced from the U.S. and Canada. When looking at the pickets, check for:
- Small, tight knots
- Smooth cuts
- Minimal staining
- No worm holes
- No major bowing or cupping
Cedar performs extremely well in the San Antonio climate because it naturally resists rot, insects, and warping.
- Nail Quality Matters More Than Homeowners Realize
The right fasteners make a huge difference in how long your fence stays together. San Antonio’s heat, humidity, and storms can cause poor-quality nails to pop out over time.
Your fence company should be using:
Framing Nails
- Galvanized
- Ring-shank or screw-shank (keeps boards from pulling loose)
Picket Nails
- Hot-dipped galvanized
- Designed for exterior use
Better nails mean longer fence life and better overall value.
The Bottom Line: A Good San Antonio Fence Company Should Stock What They Sell
If a fence company won’t let you visit their shop…
If they don’t stock lumber on-site…
If they can’t show you the actual materials they plan to install…
❗ That’s a red flag.
A reputable San Antonio fence contractor will always be proud to show their inventory and explain why they use the materials they use. If they don’t, you may be working with the wrong company.
Ready to Choose a Fence Company You Can Trust?
Before you make your final decision, take a few minutes to visit the shop. Seeing the lumber yourself gives you peace of mind and ensures you’re getting the quality your home deserves — especially in a climate as tough as San Antonio.
FAQ: Choosing a Fence Company in San Antonio
1. Why should I visit a fence company’s shop?
To make sure you’re getting quality lumber. A reputable San Antonio fence company should stock materials on-site and let you review them.
2. What should treated pine posts look like?
They should be greenish, heavy, and may have small cracks from drying — all normal signs of proper treatment.
3. What wood is best for gates?
Use lightweight kiln-dried SPF or cedar. Treated pine is too heavy and causes gate sagging.
4. How do I know cedar pickets are good quality?
Look for small knots, smooth cuts, minimal staining, and no worm holes.
5. Do nails really matter?
Yes. Fences last longer with galvanized ring-shank or screw-shank nails that resist rust and pulling out.
6. What if a fence company doesn’t stock lumber?
That’s a red flag. It may mean inconsistent or low-grade materials. Choose a company that shows you what they install.
7. What type of wood fence works best in San Antonio?
Most homeowners choose Western Red Cedar pickets with treated pine posts for durability in South Texas weather.