Pressure-Treated vs. Cedar: Which Wood Fence Is Right for Your Yard?

A wood fence can elevate your property’s privacy, security, and curb appeal—but choosing the right wood makes all the difference in how it performs over time. We often help homeowners decide between two of the most popular options: pressure-treated pine and cedar.

While both are excellent choices, each has distinct benefits. This guide will help you compare them so you can make the right decision for your style, budget, and maintenance preferences.

🌲 What Is Pressure-Treated Wood?

Pressure-treated (PT) wood is typically southern yellow pine that has been chemically treated to resist rot, insects, and moisture. The treatment process forces preservatives deep into the wood fibers using pressure and vacuum systems.

✅ Pros of Pressure-Treated Wood:

• More affordable upfront than cedar

• Highly resistant to termites and fungal decay

• Great for posts and structural framing

• Readily available in many dimensions

❌ Cons:

• Has a greenish or brownish tint when new (can fade over time)

• More prone to warping, twisting, or cracking as it dries

• Requires more frequent maintenance and sealing to maintain appearance

• Not naturally aromatic or as aesthetically refined as cedar

🌳 What Is Cedar Wood?

Cedar—especially Western Red Cedar—is a premium wood known for its natural oils that protect against decay and pests. It doesn’t need chemical treatment and is often selected for its warm tone and straight grain.

✅ Pros of Cedar:

• Naturally resistant to rot and insects

• Less likely to warp or crack

• Rich color and smooth, uniform texture

• Gives off a pleasant aromatic scent

• Requires less maintenance to retain structural integrity

❌ Cons:

• Higher cost compared to pressure-treated pine

• Still benefits from occasional sealing/staining to preserve color

• Slightly softer—can be more susceptible to dings or dents

🔍 Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Pressure-Treated Pine	Cedar
Cost	Lower	Higher
Natural Durability	Moderate (chemical-treated)	High (naturally resistant)
Appearance	Greenish/brown tint	Rich, warm red or light brown
Warping Potential	Moderate to high	Low
Scent	None	Pleasant, aromatic
Maintenance	High (sealing, staining)	Moderate (optional sealing)
Lifespan	10–15 years with upkeep	15–25 years with upkeep

🛠️ What We Recommend at EKREN FENCE

• Choose pressure-treated wood if you're working within a budget or prioritizing structural strength (great for fence posts or utility fencing).

• Choose cedar if you want long-term value, lower maintenance, and enhanced visual appeal—especially for privacy fences, picket fences, or decorative front yard installations.

We often combine both: pressure-treated posts for strength and cedar panels for beauty and performance.

🏡 Not Sure Which to Pick? Let’s Talk.

We bring decades of experience helping homeowners throughout Eastern PA choose the right fencing materials for their climate, budget, and home style. We’ll walk you through side-by-side samples, offer design tips, and install your new fence with care and craftsmanship.

📞 Call us today for a free consultation or stop by our Lehigh Valley showroom to compare wood types in person.