Is it true that cedar fence boards should be installed with the bark side facing out in BC's wet climate?

Yes, cedar fence boards should generally be installed with the bark side (rounded growth rings) facing outward in BC's wet climate. This orientation helps the boards shed water more effectively and reduces cupping that can trap moisture against the fence structure.

When cedar boards dry and age, they naturally cup toward the bark side due to the wood's growth ring structure. In Metro Vancouver's wet climate, this cupping pattern becomes more pronounced as boards repeatedly absorb and release moisture through the seasonal cycle. Installing boards bark-side-out means any cupping will cause the board to curve away from the fence frame, allowing water to run off rather than pooling against the rails and posts.

The bark side is identified by examining the end grain of the board. The growth rings form concentric arcs, and the bark side is the outer edge of these arcs (where the bark was originally attached). The heart side faces toward the center of the original tree. On many cedar fence boards, you can also identify the bark side by its slightly rougher texture and sometimes darker coloration compared to the heart side.

This installation method becomes particularly important in Metro Vancouver because of our 1,200+ mm of annual rainfall and high humidity levels. Boards installed heart-side-out will cup inward, creating small channels that collect rainwater against the fence structure. Over time, this trapped moisture accelerates rot in both the boards and the supporting framework, significantly reducing fence lifespan from the typical 15-20 years down to 8-12 years.

For horizontal board fences (increasingly popular modern designs), the same principle applies but the effect is even more critical. Horizontal boards that cup the wrong way become literal water channels running along the fence, directing moisture into post and rail connections. Quality fence contractors in Metro Vancouver pay careful attention to board orientation on horizontal installations.

Additional moisture protection strategies work alongside proper board orientation. Cedar boards should be pre-stained or sealed before installation when possible, with special attention to cut ends where the wood's natural oils are exposed. Installing boards with a 2-4 inch gap above grade prevents ground moisture wicking, and ensuring proper post drainage with gravel beds reduces overall moisture exposure to the fence structure.

When to hire a professional: While identifying bark-side-out orientation is straightforward, proper fence installation involves many other moisture-management details that affect long-term performance. Professional fence contractors understand post depth requirements for Metro Vancouver's soft soils, proper concrete and drainage techniques, appropriate fastener selection for wet conditions, and how to integrate all these elements for maximum fence lifespan. A properly installed cedar fence with correct board orientation and moisture management will easily outlast a DIY installation that misses these critical details.