Cedar vs Pressure Treated Fence: Choosing the Right Option for You
Choosing the right fence for your yard can be tricky, especially when deciding between cedar and pressure treated wood. Both have their benefits and unique qualities.
Let’s dive into the pros and cons of each type, so you can pick the one that’s best for your home!
What is a Cedar Fence?
Cedar wood is a popular choice for fences because it’s naturally beautiful and has a pleasant aroma. Western red cedar, in particular, is often used in cedar fences. It’s naturally resistant to rot and insect damage, so you won’t need as many chemicals to keep it protected. Cedar wood fences are known for their rich color and smooth, even texture.
Pros of Cedar Fencing:
- Natural Beauty: Cedar has a beautiful grain and color, giving your yard a warm, natural look.
- Resistant to Rot and Insects: Cedar wood naturally fights off insect damage and rot, so it lasts longer without as much upkeep.
- Lightweight and Easy to Work With: Cedar lumber is easy to cut, shape, and install.
Cons of Cedar Fencing:
- Higher Cost: Cedar wood can be more expensive upfront compared to pressure treated wood.
- Maintenance Needed for Color: Cedar ages to a silver-gray over time, so if you want to keep its color, it’ll need staining or sealing regularly.
- Less Durable in Wet Climates: Cedar fences may not last as long in very wet climates compared to treated wood.
Best For: Homeowners who want a natural look and are okay with some maintenance to preserve color.
What is Pressure Treated Wood?
Pressure treated wood, often made from pine, is treated with chemicals to help resist rot, mold, and insect damage. This wood is a more affordable choice for fencing material and is designed to last longer in harsh outdoor conditions. Pressure treated pine fences are durable and can withstand moisture better than untreated wood.
Pros of Pressure Treated Fences:
- Affordable: Pressure treated wood is generally more budget-friendly than cedar wood.
- Durable in Moisture: The treatment process makes the wood last longer in damp climates.
- Insect Resistant: The chemicals used in pressure treated pine help to prevent insect damage.
Cons of Pressure Treated Fences:
- Appearance: Pressure treated pine doesn’t have the same natural look as cedar wood and can have a greenish tint.
- Chemical Treatment: The wood contains chemicals, which some homeowners might want to avoid.
- Heavier and Harder to Work With: Pressure treated wood is denser and harder to cut, making installation a bit tougher.
Cedar vs. Pressure Treated Fence: Key Differences
Here’s a quick look at how cedar and pressure treated wood compare:
| Feature | Cedar Fence | Pressure Treated Fence |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | More expensive | Budget-friendly |
| Durability | Naturally durable but best in dry climates | Durable, especially in wet climates |
| Appearance | Warm, natural look | Greenish tint, less natural appearance |
| Maintenance | Needs regular staining or sealing to keep color | Lower maintenance |
| Insect Resistance | Naturally insect-resistant | Treated to resist insects |
| Installation | Lightweight, easy to work with | Heavier, tougher to install |
Cedar Fence Posts vs. Pressure Treated Fence Posts
When it comes to fence posts, you might want to mix and match materials. Cedar fence posts can be beautiful, but they don’t handle ground contact as well as pressure treated fence posts, which are more resistant to rot and moisture. Using pressure treated wood for posts and cedar for the rest of the fence gives you a balance of durability and aesthetics.
Choosing the Right Fencing Material
Both cedar and pressure treated wood have their strong points, so here’s how to decide:
- If you prefer natural beauty and don’t mind a bit of maintenance, a cedar fence is a great choice. Cedar stands out with its warm color and pleasant scent, making it perfect for those who value aesthetics.
- If budget and durability are top priorities, especially in wet climates, go for a pressure treated fence. Pressure treated pine is made to last and can handle tough conditions.
Tips for Maintaining Your Cedar or Pressure Treated Fence
Maintaining pea gravel in your landscaping projects is relatively simple but requires occasional attention to keep it looking its best. Over time, pea gravel can shift, especially in high-traffic areas or on sloped surfaces. Here are some tips to keep your pea gravel in top condition:
- Stain or Seal Regularly: Cedar fencing needs a stain or sealer to maintain its color. Pressure treated wood benefits from a sealant as well, though it’s more for protection than color.
- Check for Insect Damage: Even though both cedar and treated wood resist insects, it’s good to inspect your fence each year.
- Clean Your Fence: A quick wash every now and then helps keep dirt, mildew, and algae at bay.
FAQ: Cedar vs. Pressure Treated Fence
Cedar fences are naturally beautiful, insect-resistant, and have a pleasant aroma. They provide a warm, natural look but require regular maintenance to retain color.
Pressure treated wood is more affordable, durable in wet climates, and highly resistant to rot and insects. It’s a budget-friendly option for long-lasting fencing.
Pressure treated wood is ideal for wet climates as it withstands moisture better than cedar.
Cedar requires regular staining or sealing to maintain its color, while pressure treated wood has lower maintenance needs but benefits from occasional sealing.
Yes, many homeowners use pressure treated wood for posts (for durability in the ground) and cedar for the rest of the fence to achieve a balance of aesthetics and longevity.
Final Thoughts
Deciding between a cedar vs pressure treated fence comes down to what matters most to you – looks or durability. A cedar fence offers natural beauty, while a pressure treated pine fence provides extra toughness for all-weather conditions. Either choice can make a great addition to your yard, depending on your needs and preferences.
Ready to kickstart your fence installation project? Contact Legacy Outdoor Services today for expert advice and professional installation. If you live in Texas, Brazos County or nearby, give us a call at (979) 575-6019 or contact us via our contact page.