Fences, Tall and Short

Cedar fencing is a popular material option offered by most fencing companies. But is it right for you? Here are the most common pros and cons. 

PROS

Aesthetic

Cedar fencing has a naturally beautiful reddish hue that looks incredible without any stain or paint. If left unsealed, it will weather to a pleasant silver gray as it ages. Cedar also has a lovely tight grain pattern that looks good on any fence and has fewer knots than many other types of wood fencing.

Durability

Another advantage of cedar fencing is that it is naturally durable because cedarwood oil helps prevent water penetration, fungal growth, and insects and that makes it less prone to rotting. You won't have to paint or seal the fence if you don't want to and the wood will last for years to come. Cedar wood is also strong and durable and will last longer than pine fencing.

Easy To Find

Cedar fencing is also easy to find at just about any fencing supply store or hardware store and it's almost always a standard option with any fencing company.

Low Maintenance

Because of its durability, rot-resistant properties, and natural bug-repelling qualities, cedar fencing requires very little maintenance. It doesn't need to be stained, painted, or sealed. It's a good idea to wash it once a year, but otherwise, there is very little maintenance required.

Cost

Cedar fencing is much more cost-effective than other fencing options like vinyl, composite, metal, or wrought iron fencing. You can expect to pay between $17 and $22 per linear foot for wood fencing like cedar, compared to $23 to $37 per linear foot for composite.

CONS

Cost

How is the cost of cedar fencing both a pro and a con? Although cedar is cheaper than other materials like vinyl or metal fencing, the cost is a little higher when comparing it to other wood fencing materials like pine. However, considering the added moisture and insect protection from the natural oils as well as the low maintenance, many consider the minimal extra cost worth the price tag.

Color Fade

If you're hoping to keep that beautiful reddish hue forever, you'll need to apply a sealer to your fence. When left exposed to the elements, cedar will eventually transform into a silver-gray color. Although some homeowners don't mind the transition, others may find it disappointing.

Marking

Although cedar is strong and durable in many ways, it's still a soft wood that will show marks like scratches and scrapes if handled improperly. It's important to make sure to choose a fencing company with experience in carefully installing cedar fencing in order to minimize these problems.

Contact a local fencing company to learn more.