Wood fences provide safety, security, and charm to your property. From post-and-rail fences to picket designs, there is something for everyone’s tastes. But before you build a fence, you must decide: cedar or pine – which is better for your fence?
Well, it’s not so cut and dried. There are factors that should be considered, including your climate, the level of maintenance you are willing to commit to, and even how quickly you are looking to install.
Let’s take a look at some of the key factors to help you decide if cedar or pine is the right choice for your fencing project.
The Basics of Cedar and Pine
Cedar is a softwood known for its rich reddish tones and natural aromatic scent. It’s extremely durable, making it ideal for outdoor construction. The naturally occurring oils in cedar provide protection from pests and rotting over time.
Pine, on the other hand, must undergo chemical treatment (pressure-treated) to gain these weather-resistant attributes and be suitable for outdoor use. Pressure-treated pine is lighter in color compared to cedar, generally appearing pale tan or even having green streaks due to the chemicals used in treatment.
This makes it a more affordable option for many homeowners. However, this material draws a major disadvantage from its susceptibility to warping over time.
Maintenance and Durability: The Battle of the Woods
| Aspect | Cedar | Pine |
| Maintenance | Low | High |
| Moisture Resistance | High (naturally resistant) | Low (unless pressure-treated) |
| Rot Resistance | High | Low (unless pressure-treated) |
| Insect Resistance | High | Low (unless pressure-treated) |
| Annual Treatment | Occasional cleaning, UV oil occasionally | Requires restaining and refinishing annually |
| Color Longevity | The reddish hue may fade | Subject to restaining |
| Scratch Resistance | Lower | Higher |
| Durability | High | Lower |
| Shrinkage & Warping | Less prone | More prone |
| Ground Contact | Not as good | Better (especially if pressure-treated) |
Maintenance-wise, cedar takes the trophy. Its natural resistance to moisture, rot resistance, and insect resistance makes it a great low-maintenance choice. In fact, with cedar fences, you only need to worry about occasional cleaning and maybe a coat of UV oil once in a blue moon to protect its brilliant reddish hue from fading.
Pine, not so much. It’ll require some TLC every year in the form of restaining and refinishing to keep it holding up against outdoor use. Untreated pine is bound to succumb quickly to rotting brought on by moist conditions or even insects if left exposed outdoors.
Although cedar holds the upper hand in terms of durability, it loses points in the “scratch-resistant” category. Pine might be less durable, but it fares better when it comes to fending off cosmetic damages such as scratches and dents.
If you’re on the lookout for a long-lasting fence, cedar is a hard one to beat. Pine, treated or not, tends to buckle under the pressure of weather exposure, showing signs of shrinkage and warping. However, pine takes the cake when it comes to contact with the ground. Given its superior resistance to subterranean conditions, folks often opt for pressure-treated pine posts, pairing them with cedar panels for their fencing projects.
Appearance: The Natural Beauty of Cedar vs. The Rustic Charm of Pine
| Aspect | Cedar | Pine |
| Basic Color | Reddish hue | Lighter tone, cream to pale tan |
| Color Changes Over Time | Fades to silver-gray | Retains color better with regular staining |
| Grain Pattern | Tight grain | Less distinctive |
| Aesthetically Pleasing | High, especially if you like reddish tones | Neutral tones can blend well with garden themes |
| Special Features | The reddish hue can be maintained with a wood stain | Can have greenish streaks if pressure-treated |
| Color Durability | Fades over time but can be restored with stain | Better color retention with regular staining |
| Versatility in Themes | Can be more specific due to reddish tones | Neutral tones provide more versatility |
| Quirky Features | None | Greenish-blue streaks if pressure-treated |
Neither cedar nor pine tries to win you over with complex patterns, but they each have their own distinctive wood grain and color to catch the eye. Cedar offers a recognizable reddish hue that, over time, fades to a silver-gray. Pine, on the other hand, has a lighter tone, from cream to pale tan, and if pressure-treated, can even show greenish streaks.
If you have a keen eye for aesthetics, you might favor the tight-grain and reddish tones of cedar. Bear in mind, however, that this lovely reddish tone will gradually fade to a silvery-gray. Not to worry, though: a little wood stain can keep this natural color shift at bay.
Pine doesn’t have the natural richness in color that cedar offers, but it stands its ground when it comes to retaining color. With regular staining, it trumps cedar in color durability.
Pine does sport quite neutral, lightly-colored tones, which can blend effortlessly with most garden themes while offering unusual bluish-green streaks appearing through pressure treatment, giving your average-looking fences that rather quirky edge.
Mind the Wallet: Cedar vs. Pine Fencing Costs
| Aspect | Cedar | Pine |
| Initial Cost per linear Ft | $5 – $14 | $3 – $9 |
| Investment Lifespan | Longer due to natural resistances | Shorter due to less natural resistance |
| Maintenance Costs | Lower (less frequent treatments) | Higher (frequent restaining and refinishing) |
| Long-Term Value | Higher (considering lower maintenance costs and durability) | Lower (considering higher maintenance and less durability) |
| Time for Maintenance | Less | More |
Your wallet might end up being the deciding factor. Cedar comes in at a higher price point compared to pine. For comparison, cedar deck planks can run you between $5 and $14 per linear foot, while pressure-treated pine can range from $3 to $9.
The cost for both cedar and pine fencing can also vary based on total square footage, any additional materials needed, any added features, and, of course, labor costs if you choose to hire a professional for fence installation.
Its natural resistance towards outdoor extremities, such as rotting from moisture and red ants parades, makes cedar’s longer investment life span worth pondering about. Plus, upkeep for cedar tends to be lower than for pine, which subtly offsets costs along the way.
It’s key to remember that while a pine fence might be lighter on your pocket, it’ll require more time and money for maintenance in the long run.
Life Span: Which Stands the Test of Time?
| Aspect | Cedar | Pine |
| Estimated Life Span | 15-20 years | 10-15 years (up to 25 years if pressure-treated) |
| Influential Factors | Type of cedar, climate, level of maintenance | Type of chemical preservative, climate, level of maintenance |
| Optimal Climate | Dry, arid conditions | Dry, arid conditions may prolong life |
| Maintenance Impact | Regular maintenance needed for maximum lifespan | Well-maintained and protected pine can last longer |
Cedar tends to outlive pine, with its lifespan estimated at 15 to 20 years as opposed to pine’s 10 to 15 years. But frankly, longevity can vary widely depending on a number of factors. The quality of treatment, the location of the structure in relation to the ground, and regional climate can all affect the lifespan of both cedar and pine.
Cedar’s lifespan will be influenced by factors like its type (different types have different properties), the climate where it’s used, and how it’s maintained. Cedar tends to fare better in dry, arid conditions and needs regular maintenance to endure as long as possible.
A pressure-treated pine fence can potentially last for many years, with some sources suggesting their lifespan can extend up to 25 years. But again, longevity will depend on the type of chemical preservative used, the climate, and the level of maintenance it receives.
Pine in dry, arid climates may last longer than in wet, humid climates due to a higher risk of rotting. Hence, well-maintained and protected pine might have a longer shelf life than that which is poorly maintained.
Installation: DIY vs. Professional
When it comes to installing a fence, cedar and pine offer different experiences. Cedar wood is denser and harder to work with, requiring specialized tools for cutting and attaching the planks. This might make it a bit challenging for a DIY project, especially for beginners. On the flip side, the robustness of cedar wood means that you’ll have a sturdier end product.
Pine is generally easier to work with, thanks to its softer nature, making it a more manageable DIY project. The planks can be cut, nailed, or screwed with regular carpentry tools, which may also reduce the overall installation time.
Whether you opt for privacy fences or picket fences, both cedar and pine have their own merits and drawbacks when it comes to installation. However, professional installation is still highly recommended, no matter which material you choose, to help ensure that your new fence will endure for years to come.
Availability: Easy Come, Easy Go
When it comes to availability, pressure-treated pine is a no-brainer. Just stroll into any home improvement store, and you’ll spot a variety of sizes and designs. On the other hand, it’s a bit of a wild goose chase hunting down cedar. You may need to check out specialty wood stores, and even then, you may find it tricky to find a competitive price due to its rarity.
Consider Your Climate
Take a moment to think about climate implications for your fence. If you’re living it up in dry climates, cedar might be your guy. Given its natural dryness, cedar stands tall in dry environments. But be wary of very humid and wet climates as cedar boards may swell, causing potential problems.
As for pine, it’s up for the challenge of higher humidity areas but needs some drying time after treatment when installing it in very dry places to avoid shrinkage or buckling.
Environmental Impact: Why It Matters
A fence or a deck is a long-term investment, so it’s important to consider the environmental footprint we leave behind. In this area, cedar smashes it out of the park. First of all, cedar is eco-friendly.
It doesn’t require chemical applications, grows rapidly, making it a sustainable and renewable resource, and it’s biodegradable. The production of cedar lumber generates relatively low greenhouse gas emissions, so it’s a pretty green choice compared to many other materials.
Pressure-treated pine, however, does leave a heavier environmental footprint. The chemical treatment process subjects the surrounding soil and environment to potential contamination.
As pressure-treated pine decomposes, it may release harmful substances into the environment. It’s essential to dispose of this kind of wood responsibly and according to local regulations.
Odor: Does Your New Fence Smells Good?
Ah…and who knew that fences could smell good, too? That’s right! Cedarwood gives off a lovely, sweet fragrance thanks to thujaplicin compound found naturally in them.
This goes pleasantly well when served alongside summer cookouts, garden high teas, or inviting kids for hopscotch tournaments amidst cheerful ambiance brought upon by mother nature herself contained magically within fence boundaries.
Pine fences, though, well…they don’t really have a smell. Even though pine trees have a distinctive smell, once the wood gets pressure-treated, that signature aroma is virtually non-existent.
Cedar or Pine: Which Is Better for Your Fence?
To boil it down, cedar and pine both offer distinct advantages as fencing materials. Cedar tends to be more durable and requires less maintenance than pine, but it is comparatively more expensive and challenging to locate in specialized stores.
Then again, pressure-treated pine makes an excellent fence material if you’re looking for a more affordable alternative. Be aware that you may need to shell out a bit more further down the line for maintenance and protectants.
| Category | Cedar | Pine |
| The Basics | ||
| Color | Reddish hue | Light tan to cream |
| Weather Resistance | Naturally resistant | Requires pressure-treatment |
| Maintenance and Durability | ||
| Maintenance Level | Low | High |
| Durability | High | Lower |
| Ground Contact | Not as good | Better (if pressure-treated) |
| Aesthetic Qualities | ||
| Aesthetic Appeal | High | Neutral |
| Grain Pattern | Tight grain | Less distinctive |
| Costs | ||
| Initial Cost per Sq Ft | $5 – $14 | $3 – $9 |
| Maintenance Costs | Lower | Higher |
| Long-Term Value | Higher | Lower |
| Life Span | ||
| Estimated Years | 15-20 years | 10-15 years (up to 25 if treated) |
| Environmental Impact | ||
| Eco-Friendly | Yes | No |
| Availability | ||
| Availability | Specialized stores | Widely available |
Ultimately, both cedar and pine can serve as excellent fence materials. Your best option depends heavily on factors like cost-friendliness, the climate you live in, and how you envision your yard looking for years to come.
What About Other Wood Types?
Lately, alternate wood choices, such as redwood and tropical hardwoods, are increasingly gaining popularity. Redwood is comparable to cedar in terms of price but challenges it when it comes to long-term resistance and maintenance requirements.
It’s not one of the topmost eco-friendly options, however. Tropical hardwoods provide ultimate strength and durability from their density at a price that may shock you. Mahogany and teak are prime examples of the same, becoming increasingly cross-demanded for exclusive household furnishing and outdoor structures due to their excellent all-weather characteristics.
Finally, composite fencing panels are another option gaining massive traction in these modern times, being made primarily out of recycled materials and altered plastic resins. They don’t require any maintenance, and their price tag isn’t too heavy on the pocket despite being a tad pricier than some of the alternatives discussed earlier.
Plus, composite fence panels are available in various colors and wood-like grain patterns for that extra oomph factor.
FAQ About Cedar vs. Pine Fences
Western Red Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, decay, and insect damage, but exposure to water for extended periods of time can cause cedar to rot.
The natural oils in cedar may dry out and fade over time when exposed to direct sunlight. You can extend the color of your cedar fence by applying a coat of UV oil or re-staining it periodically.
Naturally rot-resistant woods that can be used for outdoor construction include bald cypress, California redwood, black locust, ipe, and teak.
Treated or untreated pine can last for years if it is protected from moisture. However, untreated pine may warp or crack due to the thinness of the laths.
To ensure proper drainage, you should insert aggregate in the bottom of the postholes before installing a cedar fence. The bottom of the posts should extend a few inches into the aggregate.
Yes, the posts should always be set in concrete for stability and durability. Without a proper footer made of concrete, the fence posts may become saggy over time.
Choosing the Right Fence for Your Home
When it comes to picking the right fence for your home, doing your research beforehand can make all the difference. While comparing cedar and pine may be a conundrum in itself, weighing the pros and cons of any fencing material should be a critical factor in your decision-making.
Remember, a fence is not just a boundary marker; it’s a reflection of your style and values. Whether you opt for the rich, reddish tones of cedar or the neutral palette of pine, your fence will undoubtedly add character and charm to your property.
Need help with your fencing project? We can help you connect with a fencing company in your area. It doesn’t matter what type of wood or design you’re looking for; we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your outdoor oasis.
Main Image Credits:
Cedar Fence: tainted / Canva Pro / License
Pine Fence: vavlt / Canva Pro / License
