Are Ceder Pickets Treated? Cedar vs. Pressure-Treated Wood: Which Fence Material Is Right for You?

In short, No! Cedar is not pressure treated...

When it comes to building a fence, choosing the right material is key to achieving both the aesthetic and durability you need. Two of the most popular options for residential fencing are cedar and pressure-treated wood. Both materials offer distinct advantages, but they differ in appearance, cost, maintenance, and lifespan. In this blog post, we’ll break down the main differences between cedar and pressure-treated wood to help you decide which is best for your fence.

1. Natural Beauty: Cedar’s Visual Appeal

Cedar is renowned for its natural beauty. It has a rich, warm color that can range from red to honey-brown, making it an attractive choice for homeowners looking to add a rustic or natural touch to their property. Over time, cedar weathers to a silvery-gray patina, which many find visually appealing.

Unlike pressure-treated wood, cedar doesn't require painting or staining to look good, though it can be stained to preserve its color longer. For those who prioritize aesthetics, cedar often wins out as the more visually appealing option.

2. Durability and Longevity: How Long Will It Last?

When it comes to durability, both cedar and pressure-treated wood are tough, but they perform differently in various environments.

• Cedar is naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insect damage due to its chemical compounds, which act as a deterrent to pests like termites. However, cedar isn’t as resistant to moisture as pressure-treated wood. In particularly wet or humid climates, cedar may require more maintenance to ensure it lasts as long as possible.

• Pressure-treated wood is treated with preservatives, including chemicals like copper-based compounds, which make it highly resistant to rot, insects, and moisture. This makes it an excellent choice for fence posts or sections of fencing that will be in direct contact with the ground, where moisture levels are highest.

When properly maintained, cedar fences can last around 15 to 20 years, while pressure-treated wood fences can often last 20 to 25 years or more, depending on climate and upkeep.

3. Cost Comparison: Cedar vs. Pressure-Treated

One of the biggest factors homeowners consider is the cost of materials. Generally, cedar is more expensive than pressure-treated wood. Cedar’s natural beauty and durability come at a premium, which can increase the overall cost of your fence project, especially if you’re building a long or tall fence.

Pressure-treated wood, on the other hand, is more affordable and widely available. The treatment process helps make lower-cost wood types, such as pine or fir, more durable, which is why pressure-treated wood is often the go-to option for budget-conscious homeowners.

4. Maintenance Requirements

• Cedar fences require relatively low maintenance, especially if you’re happy with the natural weathering process. However, if you want to keep the rich cedar color intact, you’ll need to apply a clear stain or sealant every couple of years to prevent fading from the sun and weather damage.

• Pressure-treated wood fences require a bit more maintenance to prevent cracking, warping, and splitting. While pressure-treated wood is highly durable, it’s not immune to the effects of moisture and temperature changes. Regular sealing or staining (usually every 1–2 years) is necessary to maintain its strength and appearance. Additionally, pressure-treated wood may have visible green or brown streaks from the chemical treatment, which some people choose to cover with paint or stain.

  
  

5. Environmental Impact

For environmentally conscious homeowners, cedar is often considered a greener option. Cedar is a naturally grown, renewable resource, and when sourced from sustainable forests, it has a smaller environmental footprint compared to pressure-treated wood, which requires chemical treatment processes.

Pressure-treated wood is treated with preservatives that are designed to resist rot and pests, but the chemical process raises concerns for some homeowners regarding environmental impact. While modern pressure-treated wood is much safer than older versions that used arsenic-based treatments, it still contains synthetic chemicals that some people prefer to avoid.

6. Best Applications for Each Material

• Cedar: Best used for above-ground fencing, particularly for sections of the fence that will be highly visible, as its natural beauty makes it stand out. Cedar is ideal for decorative fences, privacy fences, and any structure where visual appeal is a top priority.

• Pressure-treated wood: This is an excellent choice for fence posts, as well as for sections that will be exposed to heavy moisture or direct contact with soil. Pressure-treated wood is highly durable and is ideal for those who prioritize longevity over aesthetics, or for homeowners who plan to paint or stain the fence.

  
  

Conclusion

In the battle between cedar and pressure-treated wood, the right choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

• Choose cedar if you’re looking for a naturally beautiful, low-maintenance fence that will add curb appeal and elegance to your yard.

• Opt for pressure-treated wood if you’re focused on durability, moisture resistance, and cost savings, especially for fence posts or in areas with high humidity.

Both materials have their strengths, and with proper care, either can provide you with a fence that lasts for decades. Consider your priorities—whether it’s cost, appearance, or longevity—and you’ll be well on your way to building the perfect fence for your home.

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Disclaimer: All prices mentioned in this post are based on national averages for fencing materials and labor, including current lumber pricing trends as of 2025. These estimates do not reflect the unique costs associated with island boundary fences, where factors like shipping, terrain, and local regulations may significantly impact pricing. For accurate pricing tailored to your location, please call for a free estimate.