Premium West Coast softwood with natural beauty and durability
Fence Grade Cedar and Redwood offer an excellent balance of beauty, durability, and value for horizontal fencing. These premium West Coast softwoods feature tighter grain patterns and fewer knots than construction-grade lumber, providing a more uniform, upscale appearance while naturally resisting rot, decay, and insect damage.
Real installations showcasing horizontal fence grade cedar/ redwood fencing
Best For
•Modern and contemporary homes seeking a refined wood aesthetic
•Homeowners wanting natural wood beauty at a mid-range price point
•Coastal and humid climates (natural rot resistance)
•Properties where natural weathering to silver-gray is acceptable
•Fences that will be stained or sealed regularly
•Projects requiring better wood quality than construction grade
Key Features & Benefits
Tight, vertical grain with minimal knots and defects
Natural oils resist rot, decay, and insects
Beautiful honey tones (cedar) or rich red-brown (redwood)
Accepts stains and sealers exceptionally well
Aromatic scent (especially cedar)
Lighter weight than hardwoods - easier installation
Naturally stable - resists warping and twisting
Sustainable North American sourcing
Pros
Excellent balance of quality and affordability
Natural rot and insect resistance
Beautiful color and grain patterns
Ages gracefully to silver-gray patina
Easy to work with - cuts and fastens easily
Naturally aromatic and pleasant
Widely available from quality suppliers
Can last 15-25+ years with proper maintenance
Cons
More expensive than pressure-treated or construction grade
Requires regular staining/sealing for color retention (every 2-3 years)
Will naturally weather to gray if not maintained
Softer than hardwoods - can dent or scratch more easily
Color variations between boards are common
Less durable than tropical hardwoods like Ipe
Can warp if not properly installed or maintained
Materials & Specifications
pickets
Fence Grade Cedar or Redwood - 1x6 or 1x4, tight vertical grain, A-grade or better
posts
4x4 redwood, cedar, or pressure-treated posts, set 24-30" deep in concrete
framing
Pressure-treated 2x4 Douglas Fir horizontal rails, stainless steel fasteners
