All too often homeowners, shy away from wood fencing even though they prefer its look. Cedar fencing can stand up to most challenges, making it a good choice when you have situations that could harm other types of wood. 

1. Wet Conditions

In damp or humid climates, it may seem wise to avoid wood, which is a real bummer if you prefer its look. Fortunately, the natural oils in cedar fencing make it resistant to moisture, rot, and insect damage. This means you can have the wood fence of your dreams. Regular maintenance, such as sealing the wood every few years, will further prolong the life of the fence. 

2. Uneven Terrain

Many non-wood fencing types, like vinyl and aluminum, come as pre-made panels that are then fit to the fence posts. This can cause unsightly gaps or stair-step effects when the fence is traversing slopes or crossing valleys in the yard. Cedar fencing consists of individual pickets attached to rails, so the height of the pickets can be altered so that the fence smoothly traverses the terrain with no gaps or stepped tops. 

3. Shifting Soil

It can be frustrating to install any type of fence on soil that contains a lot of moisture or that is prone to movement from freeze cycles. Deep fence posts in concrete footings can prevent most movement. Cedar fencing rails and pickets can be attached to any type of post; you aren't tied to cedar posts. Pressure-treated wood is often used, but you can also opt for metal core posts if you are concerned that shifting soil will break wooden ones. 

4. Small Yards

Small yards can feel even smaller with a solid fence, which is a challenge if you still need a tall fence for privacy or security. Fortunately, there are ways for cedar to overcome this challenge. Since cedar fences are built to suit, you have the option of including cut-outs or a trellis top to allow in more light. This way, you have privacy and a more open feeling. Another option is to offset the pickets on either side of the rails so light comes through but security isn't compromised. 

5. Aesthetic Concerns

One frustrating thing about vinyl fencing is you are stuck with its unchanging appearance for many years. Cedar can last nearly as long, but you have more freedom to adjust its appearance. Cedar can be easily painted or stained in a new color, for example. Or, you can add cut-outs to the existing boards for a decorative look. And unlike vinyl, there is no need to either replace whole sections of the fence or deal with ugly damages. Instead, you can simply replace just the picket that is damaged. 

Contact a cedar fence installation service to learn more. 

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