Cedar Vs. Treated Wood Fencing
Building a wood fence adds to your property value and offers a measure of privacy and security. Both cedar and treated wood are acceptable for constructing a fence, and although they are similar in some aspects, there are some notable differences. Before choosing either wood, learn a little bit more about the look and durability of each. Does this Spark an idea?
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Appearance
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A cedar fence offers a natural golden/red hue that complements your landscape and adds a rustic feel. Treated wood, which can be cut to the same dimensions as cedar, often has a greenish tint because of the copper solution used to treat it. The homeowner can paint a treated wood fence for a more attractive look.
Installation
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Both cedar and treated wood fences require similar installation. You will insert support posts at least 2 1/2 feet into the ground and secure them with concrete. Both types of fencing require rails that install between the posts, to which the fence pickets will attach. Treated wood is more likely to warp than cedar, so select the straightest posts and pickets available.
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Tools and Supplies
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You'll need the same tools and supplies to install both types of fencing. Use post hole diggers to dig the holes for the support posts and a carpenter's level to set the posts uniformly before you add the concrete. A circular saw can cut the tops of the posts evenly and trim off the bottoms of uneven fence pickets. Neither wood requires sanding if you plan to leave the fence bare. However, if you're going to paint a treated wood fence, you may want to use a hand-vibrating sander over the pickets before painting for a smoother look and feel.
Maintenance
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Cedar, due to its high oil and resin content, naturally resists deterioration, and treated wood does as well, because of the process it undergoes at the manufacturer. Over time, however, both woods will begin to weaken. Applying a clear soak-in sealer solution will help a cedar fence keep its good looks longer. A treated fence is more likely to bend and warp over the years, and while you can paint it, you can't stop the warping. Cedar does not take paint as well as treated wood because of its high oil content, which may cause the paint not to adhere in places. Some homeowners find it beneficial to combine the two types of wood, using treated wood for the thick support posts and installing the more expensive cedar pickets on the visible side of the fence for a better look.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Cedar image by Maslov Dmitry from Fotolia.com
