There are three main natural characteristics of wood you may notice:

• Checking: This is a small crack that can occur in the boards, rails or post, and is not to be considered defective.
• Shrinking: All wood can be expected to shrink, most common fence boards may shrink as much as 1/2 inch each. Shrinking is not defective.
• Warping: This is a natural process of wood. It is impossible to foretell which piece of lumber may warp. Warping is not defective.