Untreated Pine Fence?

Helloo, I've recently aquired "for free" a truckload of southern yellow heart pine and would like to make a capped picket fence for my back yard. I know an untreated softwood like yellow pine is a bad choice for a fence but its all I have, how long should I expect this fence to last with yearly maintenance? Im hoping to ge at least 5 years!! Im planing to possibly paint it or stain it. What wood preservative should I use? I will be using pressure treated lumber, cedar or redwood for posts.





Thanks,

Untreated Pine Fence?
I think as long as there is no contact with the ground you'll be okay. I'd paint it if I were you. And I suggest pre-painting that way you have all sides sealed. Have fun
Reply:There's a couple of options. If you have a timber yard handy you could get it treated there or you could paint it with diesel with a coloured pigment added. Personally I think stain is better than paint as it soaks in where as paint can flake off and leave exposed wood to the elements.
Reply:I would use a water seal with stain added to it, like Thompsons or Behrs. You can buy this at any Home Depot or Lowes store.