Pine Rail H3

What is H3 treatment and why does my fence need to be treated?
H3 is a chemical preservative treatment that protects timber against termite damage and fungal decay. Fence rails are permanently exposed to the weather and due to that require adequate protection. H3 treatment significantly extends the service life of the timber compared to untreated pine.

How many rails do I need for my fence?
That depends on your fence height and post spacing. As a general rule, standard timber fences use two rails per bay. Our fencing calculator can help you work out exactly how many rails, palings and posts you'll need based on your fence dimensions.

Do I need to treat cut ends after cutting treated timber rails?
Yes. This is important! CCA H3 treatment penetrates the outer layer of the timber, so cutting a rail exposes untreated wood at the cut face. Always apply a H3 end-grain sealant to any cut ends before installation to maintain the timber's protection.

Can treated pine rails be painted or stained?
Yes, pine rails take paint and wood stains well. A good quality exterior primer followed by a paint or stain of your choice will give you a long-lasting result.

What species of pine are these timber fence rails made from?
Our pine rails are sourced from Australian plantation-grown hoop pine and radiata pine.

Can I use these fence rails in-ground?
No. H3 treatment is rated for above-ground external use only. For ground contact applications or in-ground installation (such as fence posts), you'll need H4 treated timber. This is because H4 treatment carries a higher level of preservative for wetter environments.

What are pine fencing rails like compared to hardwood rails?
Pine rails are a softwood option, which means they're lighter, easier to cut and generally more affordable than hardwood alternatives. The trade-off is that hardwoods are naturally denser and may offer greater longevity in harsh conditions without treatment. For most standard residential fencing applications, H3 treated pine is a practical and cost-effective choice that performs well over the long term.

What fasteners should I use to fix pine rails to posts?
Galvanised fasteners are recommended for all external timber applications. We recommend the 14G Bugle Batten Screws for attaching pine rails to fence posts.

Can I use pine fence rails for non-fencing projects?
Yes! They're suitable for a range of above-ground external applications including pergola framing, garden edging, retaining structures above ground and general outdoor construction where treated timber is required.

How should I store fence rails before installation?
Store rails flat and off the ground, in a dry location with good airflow. Stacking them flat with spacers between layers prevents bowing and allows air circulation. Avoid leaving them in direct contact with the ground or exposed to prolonged moisture before installation, as this can cause warping or surface staining before the timber is fixed in place.