Why Western Red Cedar privacy fences last longer and looks better

Cedar privacy fences in Houston are the upgrade that boosts curb appeal, adds privacy, and stands up to daily life. At Texas Fence, we build with Grade 1 materials and smart details so your fence looks right on day one and holds up for years.

Why cedar privacy fences win over budget pine

Cedar has tight grain, natural oils, and better stability. It resists warping, cupping, and rot better than common pine pickets. It also takes stain evenly and weathers to a rich tone instead of turning gray and rough. You get fewer call-backs, fewer popped boards, and a cleaner backyard line from your privacy fence.

Posts, rails, and hardware: the skeleton that matters

A beautiful picket does not save a weak frame. We set strong posts, add the right rails, and use coated or stainless fasteners that do not streak or stain.

• Posts: Proper depth in concrete with bell-shaped footings to resist uplift
• Rails: Enough rails for height so pickets stay flat
• Fasteners: Exterior-rated screws or ring-shank nails to lock pickets tight
• Hardware: Heavy hinges and latches on gates so alignment holds

We build straight and plumb, then brace gates so they close smooth.

Styles that fit your home

We can build clean privacy or a custom look.

• Board-on-board for full privacy even when wood shrinks
• Horizontal for a modern line and tight shadow gaps
• Cap and trim for a finished top and framed look
• Good-neighbor designs that look clean from both yards

We help you choose a style that fits your home and HOA while hitting your budget.

Stain and seal for color and life

Cedar holds stain well. A quality oil-based stain adds UV protection and water resistance. We finish boards on site or pre-stain in a controlled environment. Pre-staining speeds install, keeps color even, and helps the fence shed water from day one.

Gates that do not sag

Gates work hard. We build a welded steel frame when you need extra strength, then add cedar infill so the look matches the run. We hang on heavy posts, place the latch at a comfortable height, and set a stop so it closes tight every time.

Height, setbacks, and HOA rules

We help with HOA approvals and follow city rules on height and placement. Corner lots and pool yards can have special requirements. Our drawings and photos make the approval step easy, and our crews build to the plan you approve.

Wind, soil, and drainage

Houston clay moves. Wind comes in bursts. We set posts deep, shape the concrete, and leave a slight grade gap so pickets are not soaking in puddles. On slopes, we rack or step panels so the fence follows the ground and does not leave large gaps.

Repair vs. replace

Some fences only need a few posts and pickets replaced. If half the line is leaning, rails are rotted, and gates drag, a full rebuild saves money over a string of small repairs. We will walk the line with you and price both paths so you can decide.

Cost basics

A cedar privacy line costs more than builder-grade pine, but the value shows in fewer fixes and a longer life. Height, style, and stain choices set most of the price. We give clear, written quotes so you can compare apples to apples.

FAQs about Cedar Privacy Fences

How long will a cedar fence last?
With good posts, stain, and basic care, many cedar fences last well over a decade.

Do I need board-on-board for privacy?
If you want zero gaps as the wood seasons, board-on-board is best. Standard side-by-side gives strong privacy at a lower cost, but small gaps can appear as boards dry.

How soon can I stain?
If we pre-stain, it is protected right away. If we stain on site, we time it for proper drying.

What about my dogs?
We set pickets close to grade, add kick boards where needed, and place latches high or lockable to keep clever pups in.

Takeaway

Cedar privacy fences in Houston look better and last longer when you start with Grade 1 cedar, solid posts, and the right fasteners and stain. Ready to plan your fence. See our Residential Wood Fences and explore gate options on our Driveway Gates page. Texas Fence builds cedar privacy fences in Houston with clean lines and Grade 1 materials from start to finish.