Cedar has long been a popular choice as a fencing material. Cedar wood is extremely durable, and holds up well to outdoor weather conditions. As such, a cedar fence will generally outlast fences made from softer, less durable wood, such as pine. In addition to its inherent durability, the natural oils present within the wood will help to deter insect damage and rotting.
A cedar fence is quite beautiful, adding to the overall visual appeal of a home’s landscape. Natural cedar has an attractive, rustic look, making it an excellent choice for backyard fences. Cedar does not need to be chemically treated, making it a good choice for families who prefer to use natural products. Sealants are also not required in order for cedar to remain durable outdoors. In fact, applying a sealant to cedar is generally not recommended, due to the natural oils in the wood.
A properly installed cedar fence will look great for a long time. Not only will the wood resist the ravages of the weather, but it will also maintain its straight and aligned appearance. Although many types of wood are prone to warping or shrinking over time, cedar tends to retain its shape and size beautifully.
If a cedar fence is not stained, it will gradually weather and fade to a gray color. Although many people truly love the look of weathered cedar, in some cases this natural fading is not desired. In order to avoid this natural fading, the wood can be stained.
It is true that a cedar fence costs more than most other wood fences, but still one of the most affordable fence materials. However, considering how durable and long-lasting cedar can be, it is still a good buy. A cedar fence is a good choice for the homeowner who wants to save money, and doesn’t mind a little maintenance in order to keep it in good condition. Sometimes homeowners consider using pressure treated wood for outdoor fences, in order to save on costs. The chemicals applied to pressure treated wood do increase the wood’s durability. However, pressure treated wood must be stained and sealed, thus adding to the maintenance required to keep it looking good. Cedar, on the other hand, is a remarkably low maintenance wood.