Cedar is a very durable wood that can last a long time if properly cared for. Cedar fence does not require much maintenance and can withstand the elements such as rain, wind, snow, ice, and heat with ease. If left untreated, the fence will fade and will require yearly maintenance. Because cedar is a wood, termites and other insects can cause problems if the fence is not properly maintained.
Cedar is a popular fence material. Because of its beauty, it is common for Ceder wood fences, and it comes in a variety of styles to suit almost any taste. However, there are several factors to consider before deciding on cedar for your fence.
Average Cedar Fence Lifespan
With proper maintenance, the average cedar fence can last up to 30 years. However, there are some factors that influence the longevity of cedar fencing. Precipitation and abrupt temperature changes can erode the fencing over time. The wood expands and contracts with the weather, weakening it over time. Termites, direct sun exposure, storm damage, and other factors will all have an impact on the lifespan of the fencing. All Around Fence, LLC is here to assist you in preserving your cedar fence for as long as possible.
Why Does Cedar Last So Long?
Cedar fences can last for a long time because of the natural properties that allow them to withstand the elements.
Cedar fences are distinctive because they do not require special treatments to withstand the elements. Other fence types will use chemical sprays to prepare themselves to withstand the elements, but cedar does not.
Untreated fences can last between 15 and 30 years, depending on a variety of factors. This is fantastic news, and it means you’ll be getting a fence at a great price.
In addition, some people choose to treat cedar fences, which can potentially increase their lifespan by up to 40 years in some cases.
Knowing this, it is clear that cedar fences are among the most durable options available. If you’re going to purchase a wooden fence, you should think about going with cedar.
Tips for Cedar fence Maintenance
If you want your cedar fence to last as long as possible, you should think about how to maintain it. There are some useful maintenance tips that can help, and you’ll be able to learn about them quickly. These tips are simple for most people to implement, and they will have a significant impact on the lifespan of your cedar fence.
- The first important tip is to think about applying a protective coating to your cedar fencing. This may be costly, but it will be beneficial for several reasons. It will assist you in protecting the original color of the fencing so that it does not fade as much, and it may even allow your fencing to last for many years longer than it would otherwise. If you do not choose to apply a protective coating to your cedar fence, it may lose its aesthetic appeal. A cedar fence that has not been treated with a coating will eventually turn gray. Although the gray color of the fencing does not indicate brittleness, you may prefer to be able to enjoy the more vibrant original color of the cedar fencing.
- Making Use of a Water-Resistant Sealer. When it comes to protecting your cedar fence, using a water-resistant sealer is also a good idea. This can protect your fence from rain and other types of moisture. If you don’t use a water-resistant sealer, the cedar will absorb moisture, potentially causing damage to the fence over time. You can look into various types of sealers on the market. Some of the most popular water-resistant sealers will also provide UV protection for your fence. This protects your fence from the sun’s harmful rays and helps to maintain the fence’s appearance.
- Using a Stain. Some cedar fence owners also choose to stain their fences. This is useful for providing UV protection to your fence, but it isn’t strictly necessary if you’re already using a water-resistant sealer. This is primarily done for aesthetic reasons, but it can also be beneficial to the fence. It is best to apply two coats of stain to your cedar fence for the best results. This simply ensures that you get a good stain and that your fence will look nicer if you are more thorough.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Are cedar fences prone to rot?
Cedar contains natural oils that protect it from rot. Furthermore, sealing and treating your fence helps to prevent rot. Having said that, cedar is a biological material. It will eventually begin to deteriorate. Northern White Cedar, on the other hand, can take 15 to 30 years to do so, making it an ideal material for fences. - Do cedar fences outlast other types of fences?
They most emphatically do. The majority of fence builders construct their fences out of pressure-treated pine wood. This lasts between 7 and 10 years on average, depending on the climate. This type of wood does not fare well in our Winter Wonderland. On average, red cedar lasts 10 to 15 years. Northern White Cedar, on the other hand, has a lifespan of 15 to 30 years. - Can cedar fences be painted?
You can, but it is not recommended. There are numerous issues with the paint. Because the wood does not absorb it well, it only takes a few years for it to start chipping and peeling. This turns your lovely new fence into a worn-out eyesore. Winter weather in Wisconsin can cause paint to fail in less than a year, especially on cedar fences. Paint actually shortens the life of your fence because cedar needs to breathe.
Instead, we recommend using an oil-based stain. Stains will not confine you to dull browns. They come in a variety of colors, including red, purple, blue, green, and yellow…whatever your imagination can conjure up.
Conclusion
Cedar fence materials are pricey, but they last for a long time and look great in your yard. The only issue with cedar is that it must be properly cared for and maintained to ensure that the fence continues to look good. Cedar may be ideal for those looking for natural wood fencing or one-of-a-kind fence panels.
