Cedar vs. Pine Fencing: Why Cedar is the Best Choice for Wichita Homeowners

Choosing the right wood for your fence is one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make. A fence is an investment—it provides privacy, security, and curb appeal. But not all wood is the same. The two most common choices for wooden fencing are cedar and pine, and while pine may be more affordable upfront, it comes with trade-offs that homeowners should consider.

At Midwest Fence, we’ve built fences across Wichita for years, and we stand behind cedar as the superior choice for durability, stability, and long-term value. Here’s why we don’t warranty pine fences and why cedar is the better investment for your home.

1. The Biggest Difference: Durability and Longevity

Pine: Prone to Warping and Shrinking

Pine is a softwood that needs chemical treatment to resist rot and insects. The problem? Once that treatment dries out, pine starts to shrink, warp, and twist. This means:

• Gaps form between pickets. Privacy fences lose their purpose.

• Boards warp over time. Uneven, wavy fences look unprofessional.

• More repairs are needed. Homeowners must replace boards sooner than expected.

Cedar: Naturally Strong and Long-Lasting

Cedar is naturally resistant to rot, insects, and decay without needing chemical treatments. This makes it a stronger, more stable wood that holds its shape for years. Compared to pine, cedar:

• Maintains a straight, solid structure. No major shrinking or warping.

• Resists moisture damage. Less risk of rot or softening in Kansas humidity.

• Lasts longer. A well-maintained cedar fence can last 15–25 years, while pine often needs replacing within 5–10 years.

💡 Want to keep your cedar fence in top condition? Check out our guide on Fence Maintenance.

2. The Quality of the Pickets Matters

Pine: Narrow, Thin, and Chemically Treated

Most pine fences use narrower pickets that require more boards per section. These pickets are:

• More fragile. Thin boards crack, split, or break easily.

• Chemically treated. This helps protect against insects, but once the treatment fades, pine becomes vulnerable.

Cedar: Wider, Stronger, and Naturally Resistant

Cedar fences use wider pickets, meaning fewer boards per section and a more durable build. These pickets:

• Are naturally resistant. No need for harsh chemical treatments.

• Are stronger. Cedar pickets don’t crack or split as easily as pine.

• Look better. The rich, natural grain of cedar gives fences a premium appearance.

💡 Not sure what style works best? Read our guide on Choosing the Right Fence Style.

3. Long-Term Cost: Cedar Saves You Money

Homeowners often choose pine because it’s cheaper upfront, but the hidden costs of pine fencing add up over time.

Why Cedar Costs Less Over Time

• Fewer repairs. You won’t be replacing warped or broken boards every few years.

• Longer lifespan. A pine fence may need replacing twice before a cedar fence does.

• Better resale value. A well-maintained cedar fence adds value to your home.

💡 Thinking about long-term maintenance? Read our breakdown on Fence Repair Costs.

4. Why Midwest Fence Doesn’t Warranty Pine Fencing

At Midwest Fence, we build fences meant to last. Because pine has a higher risk of failure, we do not offer warranties on pine fences. We want homeowners to make informed choices that won’t lead to frequent repairs, unexpected costs, or early replacements.

Why We Recommend Cedar Every Time

• Cedar is a higher-quality wood that withstands Wichita’s climate.

• It offers better stability—no shrinking, twisting, or major warping.

• It lasts 2-3 times longer than pine, making it a better investment.

5. Cedar vs. Pine in Wichita’s Weather

Kansas weather can be unpredictable—hot summers, cold winters, and strong winds. A fence must withstand these elements year-round.

How Pine Reacts to Wichita’s Climate:

Humidity and Rain: Pine absorbs moisture easily. This leads to expansion, shrinking, and cracking. Over time, rot sets in.
Harsh Sun: UV exposure weakens chemically treated pine, causing fading and splintering.
Strong Winds: Pine posts, being softer and weaker, tend to shift and loosen over time.

How Cedar Holds Up in Wichita’s Climate:

Moisture Resistance: Cedar contains natural oils that prevent water absorption and slow down decay.
UV Protection: Cedar naturally weathers well, aging into a classic silver-gray if left untreated. Staining can maintain its original color.
Wind Stability: Cedar posts are sturdier than pine and less likely to loosen or lean in high winds.

For homeowners in Wichita, choosing cedar means choosing a fence that stays strong, straight, and beautiful for years.

6. How to Maintain a Cedar Fence for Maximum Longevity

Cedar requires less maintenance than pine, but taking care of it properly will ensure it lasts 20+ years.

Simple Steps for Cedar Fence Care:

• Clean Annually – Use mild soap and water to remove dirt, pollen, and mildew.

• Apply Sealant or Stain (Optional) – Cedar doesn’t require chemical treatments, but sealing it every few years helps maintain its rich color.

• Inspect for Loose Boards – Tighten screws or nails if needed.

• Keep Vegetation Trimmed – Plants growing too close to the fence can trap moisture and promote rot.

How Often Should Cedar Be Maintained?

• Basic Cleaning: Once a year.

• Staining (Optional): Every 3-5 years if you want to keep the original color.

• Structural Check: Twice a year, especially after storms.

Pine, on the other hand, requires sealing every 1-2 years, more frequent repairs, and constant monitoring for warping or rot.

7. Final Verdict: Cedar is the Smart Investment

While pine may seem like a budget-friendly choice, it costs more in repairs, maintenance, and early replacement. Cedar, on the other hand, lasts longer, holds its shape, and requires less upkeep—making it the better investment for Wichita homeowners.

Why Midwest Fence Recommends Cedar Every Time:

✔ Cedar is naturally strong—no chemical treatments needed.
✔ It lasts 2-3x longer than pine.
✔ Cedar fences look better with rich, natural color and wider pickets.
✔ It’s more stable in Wichita’s climate, handling moisture, wind, and sun better than pine.

At Midwest Fence, we build fences that stand the test of time. That’s why we do not warranty pine fences—we believe in using materials that give homeowners long-term value, not short-term savings.

8. Get a Cedar Fence Built to Last

If you’re investing in a new fence, cedar is the clear winner for durability, stability, and long-term savings. At Midwest Fence, we specialize in building high-quality cedar fences that are designed to withstand Wichita’s climate and keep your property secure.

Get a fence that lasts. Contact us today for a free consultation on Cedar Fence Installation.