AntoineAsphalt.caWood fence comparison
Cedar vs Pressure-Treated Fence: An Honest Comparison
Pressure-treated wood is the more affordable, widely chosen privacy fence, at a typical Ontario installed range (2026) of $30–$55 per linear foot with a 15–20 year lifespan. Cedar costs more at $45–$75 but offers richer natural colour, lighter weight and 15–25 years. Your exact price comes from an on-site quote.
Pressure-treated wood is the more affordable, widely chosen privacy fence, at a typical Ontario installed range (2026) of $30–$55 per linear foot with a 15–20 year lifespan. Cedar costs more at $45–$75 but offers richer natural colour, lighter weight and 15–25 years. Your exact price comes from an on-site quote.
How do cedar and pressure-treated wood compare?
Both make excellent privacy fences when posts are set deep and boards are detailed correctly.
| Factor | Pressure-treated wood | Cedar |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Green-tan when new, warms with stain | Reddish-brown natural grain; greys if unfinished |
| Stability | More prone to checking and twisting as it dries | Naturally more stable, less warping |
| Rot resistance | Chemical treatment resists rot and insects | Natural oils resist rot and insects |
| Treatment | Factory pressure-treated | No chemical treatment |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter to handle |
| Maintenance | Stain or seal after drying | Finish decisions to keep colour |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years | 15–25 years |
| Typical range / ft | $30–$55 | $45–$75 |
Typical Ontario installed ranges (2026). Your exact price comes from an on-site quote.
How do they score on privacy, lifespan and maintenance?
The comparator is preset to pressure-treated wood and cedar; you can switch either side.
Which costs less to own over 15 years?
Pressure-treated wood almost always costs less upfront. Over roughly 15 years, the gap narrows when you count finishing: both benefit from periodic stain or sealer, cedar tends to stay straighter, and the posts — often pressure-treated for both — decide how long the frame lasts. Choosing deep posts and good hardware matters more to lifetime cost than the board species.
When does pressure-treated wood win?
Choose pressure-treated when budget and full privacy are the priorities, runs are long, or the fence will be painted or stained a solid colour.
When does cedar win?
Choose cedar for a premium natural look, horizontal or architectural designs where straight boards matter, fences near patios and living spaces, or when you prefer untreated wood.
Frequently asked questions
Is cedar better than pressure-treated wood?
Cedar is more stable and offers richer colour; pressure-treated wood is more affordable. The right choice depends on budget and the look of the yard.
How long does a cedar fence last?
Typically 15–25 years with proper installation, compared with 15–20 years for pressure-treated wood.
Does pressure-treated wood need to be stained?
It benefits from stain or sealer once it has dried, which also helps limit checking.
Is pressure-treated wood safe near gardens?
It is factory treated to resist rot and insects. If you prefer untreated wood around edible gardens, cedar is a natural alternative.
Why is cedar more expensive?
Cedar's material cost is higher; typical Ontario installed ranges (2026) are $45–$75 per linear foot versus $30–$55 for pressure-treated. Your exact price comes from an on-site quote.
Related fence information
From guide to site plan
Get an on-site fence quote
Call (647) 459-7775 or send the essentials. Your exact price comes from an on-site quote.