How cedar and pressure-treated pine fences differ in look, stability, rot resistance, finishing, cost and care.
Cedar and pressure-treated pine are the two most common wood fence materials in Middle Tennessee. Cedar has natural oils that resist rot and insects, a rich red-brown color and good stability, so boards stay flatter and straighter. Treated pine is infused with preservatives, is widely available and is sturdy and economical, though it often arrives wet and can twist and shrink as it dries.
Both can make a handsome fence, and both do best with a good finish. Many owners in Nashville choose cedar for the look and stability and treated pine for budget or for posts that sit in soil. A common plan is treated posts with cedar pickets. We explain the differences honestly and help you decide based on your yard, budget and how you feel about maintenance.
Natural resistance, stable boards and a warm color.
Preservative-treated and sturdy for posts and pickets.
Treated boards often need time to dry before finishing.
Cedar resists naturally, and treated pine depends on its rating.
Both take stain, and cedar can also weather to silver.
Treated posts with cedar pickets is a popular combination.
Size a fence line, check a lifespan or ballpark a budget.
Fence Length and Materials CalculatorEnter your measurements to see linear feet, posts, rails, pickets, concrete and time to plan for yards, runs, pastures and gates.Try it 
How Long Will My Fence Last? CheckerPick a fence type, its age and the signs you see to learn where it is in its life and what to do next.Try it 
Fence Budget PlannerPick a fence, gate, repair or finishing job, set the length and add extras to see a ballpark planning range. Placeholder values only.Try it Both can last many years with good installation, drainage and finishing. Posts in soil are the most important factor.
It performs better with one, and most owners stain it after it dries.
Yes, though many fence builders use treated posts for ground contact. We explain what suits your fence.
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