Cedar vs Composite
Choosing between Cedar and Composite fencing? Cedar offers medium maintenance, a 15–25 year lifespan, and $20–$45 per linear foot, while Composite offers low maintenance, a 25–35 year lifespan, and $25–$55 per linear foot. Here's a full side-by-side comparison of cost, lifespan, maintenance, and best use cases.
Quick Comparison
| Cedar | Composite | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / ft | $20–$45 | $25–$55 |
| Lifespan | 15–25 yrs | 25–35 yrs |
| Maintenance | medium | low |
Overview
Cedar fences are premium wood fences made from naturally rot-resistant cedar lumber. Western red cedar contains natural oils that repel insects and resist decay, making it one of the longest-lasting wood fencing options. Cedar weathers to an attractive silver-gray patina if left unstained.
Composite fences are made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic polymers, creating a material that looks like wood but resists rot, insects, and weather. They come in realistic wood grain textures and earth-tone colors that won't fade, peel, or require painting.
Common Uses
Cedar
- ✓ Privacy fencing
- ✓ Decorative yard fencing
- ✓ Garden enclosures
- ✓ Property boundaries
- ✓ Custom designs
Composite
- ✓ Backyard privacy
- ✓ Pool enclosures
- ✓ Modern home fencing
- ✓ Commercial screening
- ✓ Property boundaries
Pros & Cons
Cedar
- + Naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects
- + Beautiful natural grain and color
- + Ages gracefully to silver-gray if left natural
- + Lighter weight than pressure-treated pine
- + No chemical treatment needed
- − More expensive than pressure-treated pine
- − Still requires sealing for color retention
- − Softer wood — can dent more easily
- − Cost varies significantly by region
- − Not as structurally strong as hardwoods
Composite
- + Looks like real wood without the maintenance
- + Won't rot, warp, crack, or splinter
- + Made from recycled materials
- + Color is consistent and fade-resistant
- + Resists insects and moisture
- − Highest upfront cost of any fence material
- − Limited color and style selection
- − Can expand and contract with temperature
- − Heavy panels — harder to install
- − Relatively new — less track record than wood
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Cedar | Composite |
|---|---|---|
| Per linear foot | $20 – $45 | $25 – $55 |
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Lifespan & Maintenance
| Attribute | Cedar | Composite |
|---|---|---|
| Expected Lifespan | 15–25 years | 25–35 years |
| Maintenance Level | medium | low |
| Material | Wood | Composite |
Which Is Better: Cedar or Composite?
Choose Cedar if you need:
- ✓ Homeowners wanting natural beauty
- ✓ Areas with moisture or insect concerns
- ✓ Custom fence designs
- ✓ Long-term wood fence investment
Choose Composite if you need:
- ✓ Homeowners wanting wood look without maintenance
- ✓ Eco-conscious buyers (recycled materials)
- ✓ Humid and wet climates
- ✓ Long-term investment
Cedar is not recommended for:
- × Very tight budgets (premium pricing)
- × Ground-contact applications without treatment
Composite is not recommended for:
- × Very tight budgets
- × Traditional or historic properties
- × Areas needing maximum structural strength
Published February 15, 2026
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