How to Tell If Fence is Cedar Or Pine?
Having a fence is a great way to add value to your property. Aside from adding a little more beauty to your home, a fence will also protect you from wildlife and insects. If you are considering installing a fence on your property, you might want to know how to tell if a fence is made of cedar or pine. Both are softwoods, but cedar is much more durable and requires less maintenance than pine.
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Cedar has a natural resistance to warping and rotting. Because of this, it is also very resistant to insect infestations. Unlike pine, cedar does not require chemical treatments. This makes it a great option for both fences and decking. Cedar can also last for decades if you maintain it properly.
If you’re not sure if a fence is made of cedar, or if it needs to be treated or maintained, check the fence for loose or rotting boards, and look for cracks and holes. Then, clean the fence using a soap and water solution. You can also stain it or seal it to keep it looking good. Depending on the type of cedar, the fence may need to be re-stained once a year or so. If the fence is made of pressure-treated pine, you may have to seal it or paint it more often.
Compared to cedar, pressure-treated pine has less natural beauty and maybe unsightly after a few years. This is due to the chemical treatment that is used to improve the durability of the pine. It also has a greenish tint that fades over time. You can hide this unsightly color with paint. However, it’s important to note that a pressure-treated pine fence will need regular maintenance to avoid damage. In addition, pressure-treated pine fences will tend to warp and splinter.
Pine is also a cheaper option than cedar. However, this type of wood is much less durable than cedar and is more prone to warping and twisting. In addition, pine is also more sensitive to the outdoors. You may have to replace rotting pieces of your fence every few years.
Pine is also a better choice if you live in a humid area. Cedar does not expand when exposed to humid conditions. Pine may buckle if you live in an area where the weather changes quickly. In addition, the greenish tint of pressure-treated pine can be unsightly. If you are worried about this, you can always paint the fence to make it look more like cedar. If you are worried about the odor of pine, check the fence for a compound called thujaplicin. If you find the odor is strong, you may want to look for a different type of wood.
Both cedar and pine fences will last for at least 10 years before they start to look worn. However, cedar can last for twice as long as pine. Because of this, cedar is the more expensive option. Although cedar may cost more upfront, it will last for years, giving you a fence that will add value to your home for years to come.
