Which Is Better Cedar Or Pine Fence?
When it comes to fences, many homeowners are confused as to which is better cedar or pine. The answer depends on several factors, including the climate where you live, your budget and the type of wood you want to use.
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Cost:
Cedar is often more expensive than pine, but it can be worth the extra cost if you are looking for a long-lasting fence that will last for decades. It also requires less maintenance and can be more environmentally friendly than pine, which uses chemicals that may harm the environment.
Durability:
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, cedar is a durable material that will hold up well against insects, mold, weather and rot. It will usually last longer than pine fencing and can last for up to 30 years or more with proper care and maintenance.
Color & Appearance:
Cedar planks are tight-grained and feature fewer knots than other types of wood. They also have a distinct reddish tone that will fade to a silvery gray over time. This makes them a more visually appealing option than pine, which tends to be much lighter in color.
Maintenance:
A cedar fence can be maintained with a pressure washer and a solution of water and soap once a year. It should also be inspected every year to see if there are any signs of rotting or loose boards.
It can also be stained to help it stand out from the rest of your home and to improve its appearance. Depending on the type of cedar you choose, it may require regular staining or re-staining to maintain its color.
Bugs & Insects:
Cedar is a popular choice for fences due to its pleasant smell and rich, reddish-brown color. It also contains natural preservatives that keep bugs and other pests away from the fence.
This characteristic is why so many homeowners prefer cedar for their fences. It helps prevent moths, earwigs and other pests from invading their homes. In addition, cedar oil has a strong odor that deters mosquitoes and other pests.
Smell/Scent:
While both cedar and pine have a pleasing scent, cedar has a stronger and more distinctive one. This gives it a distinctive, almost woodsy smell that many homeowners enjoy.
Pine, on the other hand, does not have a specific or strong scent. This means that it is not a good choice for anyone who has allergies to wood.
Soil-Resisting Ability:
If you live in a humid area, then cedar is the better choice because it does not expand or buckle under wet conditions. This is not the case with pine, which does expand under wet conditions and can be a problem for a fence in a humid area.
Termites and other pests love to chew on wood, which can cause a lot of damage. A cedar fence can ward off these pests and prevent the infestation of termites.
The rot and insect-repelling benefits of a cedar fence can also be helpful for people who have small children or pets. It can also help keep out large pests, like birds and squirrels.
