Cedar Vs. Redwood Fence: Compare and Contrast
Looking to enhance the aesthetics and security of your property with a new wood fence? Discover the key differences between a Redwood fence and a Cedar fence here!
Installing a new fence adds a touch of security and privacy to your backyard. But with so many fencing material options, choosing the right fence can be overwhelming. Wood fences, despite strong competition from metal and vinyl fences, remain a popular and attractive choice for many homeowners. And when it comes to wood types, two options stand out: redwood and cedar.
In this blog, we will delve into the world of redwood vs. cedar fences, helping you understand the unique strengths and considerations of each. Whether you are looking for a long-lasting and durable fencing material or a budget-friendly option, we'll guide you toward the perfect wood for your dream fence. Whether you’re a homeowner in sunny California or the lush forests of Canada, join us as we delve into the world of redwood and cedar. Let’s find out which wood will be the perfect option for you and will stand the test of time!
When it comes to choosing between cedar and redwood for your fence, both offer unique advantages. Here’s some more information about these two types of wood:
Western Red Cedar is a homeowner favorite for its warm aesthetic appeal and affordability. Cedarwood boasts a beautiful, natural grain pattern that complements a variety of architectural styles. Available in a range of natural colors, from light reddish-brown to a subtle grayish-brown, cedar allows you to achieve the desired look for your outdoor space. Nature has equipped cedar with inherent rot resistance thanks to its tannin content. Many cedar suppliers offer wood sourced from sustainably managed forests, certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This ensures responsible forestry practices and minimizes environmental impact.
Redwood is another excellent choice for homeowners, especially when they want to build a wooden fence with long-lasting durability. Redwood trees have natural oils that provide exceptional natural resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage like termites. Redwood's high Janka hardness rating translates to superior strength and resistance to warping, ensuring your fence weathers the test of time. Also, the rich, reddish-brown color of redwood deepens with age, giving your fence a classic and timeless look. While redwood fencing requires minimal maintenance compared to cedar, occasional cleaning and reapplying a sealant every few years can enhance its longevity and preserve its natural beauty.
Choosing between redwood and cedar for your outdoor project will depend on several key factors. Here are some key differences to help you make the best decision for your next fencing project.
Western Red Cedar offers a warm and inviting look with its natural grain pattern. The color palette of cedar trees ranges from a light reddish-brown to a subtle grayish-brown, allowing you to achieve a desired look that complements various architectural styles. If you crave a natural, rustic feel for your outdoor space, cedar might be the perfect choice. Redwoods are more relevant on the west coast and boast a rich, reddish-brown color that deepens with age. This translates to a classic and timeless elegance that elevates the aesthetics of your backyard. While undeniably beautiful, redwood offers less variety in its color palette compared to cedar.
Cedar offers good resistance to rot and decay thanks to the presence of tannins in the wood. However, to maintain its lifespan and attractive appearance, cedar requires more regular upkeep compared to redwood. With proper care and maintenance, a cedar fence can last for 15-30 years. Redwood is exceptionally sturdy. Its dense fibers make it resistant to wear, impact, and weathering. As mentioned before, redwood trees contain natural oils that protect them from insects, decay, and rot. This inherent resistance contributes to its longevity. This translates to a wooden fence that stands strong for decades, weathering the elements with minimal maintenance required.
While cedar offers good natural resistance, it requires more frequent upkeep compared to redwood to maintain its appearance and combat weathering. Regular cleaning removes dirt, debris, and mildew that can accumulate over time, further enhancing the lifespan of your cedar fence. Redwood is the low-maintenance champ. Thanks to its natural oils, redwood fences require minimal maintenance to function effectively. Redwood's lower maintenance requirements translate to significant cost savings in the long run, as you won't need to invest as much time or money on upkeep compared to cedar.
Both redwood and cedar, when constructed properly using strong pickets and secure fence posts, offer excellent security and privacy for your property. The natural strength and sturdiness of these wood types make them a reliable deterrent against intruders. Fence height and fence design also play a significant role in overall security along with the specific wood type you choose. Beyond security, a fence can serve various functional purposes, such as defining property lines, creating a safe play area for children or pets, or blocking unwanted noise or wind. Redwood and cedar are equally adept at fulfilling these functionalities. The choice between them won't significantly impact your fence's ability to serve these purposes.
Both redwood and cedar present a similar level of installation difficulty. To use these types of woods for your home improvement project, homeowners need good carpentry skills and specialized tools to ensure a secure and aesthetically pleasing finished product. Working with these woods can be challenging due to their natural strength and density. Improper installation can compromise the fence's structural integrity and shorten its lifespan. For a professional and secure installation, consulting a qualified fence company or contractor is highly recommended. Experienced fence companies possess the expertise and tools necessary to work with redwood and red or white cedar effectively.
Cedar fences are generally a more budget-friendly option compared to redwood fences. Cedar’s lower upfront cost might be attractive, especially for those working with tighter budgets. However, the increased maintenance needs of cedar, including regular staining or sealing, may translate to higher long-term costs. Over the years, the cost of maintaining a cedar fence can add up significantly. With redwood, you will save money on staining, sealing, and potential repairs that cedar fences might require more frequently. When considering the total cost of ownership over the lifespan of the fence, redwood might be a more budget-friendly option despite the higher upfront price tag.
Both redwood and cedar boast undeniable beauty. Cedar offers a warm, rustic feel with a wider range of color options, while redwood exudes a timeless elegance with its rich, deepening color. And, choosing between a redwood and cedar fence will depend on your personal preference. Both these fencing materials offer distinct advantages. The ideal choice hinges on your priorities and budget.
If upfront cost is a major concern, cedar is a more popular choice. However, remember to factor in the long-term costs associated with regular staining and sealing to maintain its appearance. For those who prioritize minimal upkeep, redwood takes is the most cost-effective option. Redwood fences have exceptional durability and require less time and effort to maintain, saving you money in the long run.
Remember, your privacy fence isn’t just a boundary—it’s an extension of your home’s character. Whether you opt for the warm tones of redwood or the understated elegance of cedar, make your choice wisely. And if you need help, make sure you contact us here at Ergeon. Our team of friendly professionals can help you make the right decision on any of your home improvement projects.
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