For a solid fence you’ll want wood that keeps its strength in the rain. Cedar or white oak are the go‑to choices because they naturally resist rot and insects. If you can’t find cedar, look for pine that’s been kiln‑dried; it’ll hold up better than field‑logged stock. Walk the local sawmills or lumberyards and ask for logs that have been seasoned for at least a year. The grain should feel tight and free of knots that look like they've been chewing on it. Avoid anything that feels wet or smells damp – that’s a sign of hidden rot. Once you’ve got the right lumber, cut the posts to the same length, drive them a few feet into the ground, and brace them with metal straps or a simple iron pin if you’re sticking to no fancy hardware. Keep the posts spaced evenly, and use a simple notch or a square‑cut corner to tie the rails – it’s reliable and doesn’t need a lot of nails. That’s the basic recipe for a fence that’ll stand the weather and keep you from having to rebuild.