How to Care for a Cedar Fence and Make It Last for Years

Aug 17

2 min read

Cedar is an elegant, long-lasting, and naturally beautiful fencing material. When properly cared for, a cedar fence can age gracefully and provide decades of performance and curb appeal. We believe you should get the most out of the fence style you choose, and a little maintenance goes a long way.

This guide walks you through simple, proven steps to help your cedar fence stay strong, protected, and looking its best for years to come.

Let Your Fence Dry Before Staining

Cedar is a natural, porous material that contains sap, oils, and moisture. After installation, the wood will continue to release moisture absorbed during milling and construction.

To ensure proper stain absorption and long-term durability, it’s best to wait 1–2 months after installation before applying any stain or sealant. This drying period allows the wood to fully acclimate so the finish can penetrate properly, resulting in better protection and that rich, natural cedar tone homeowners love.

Use a Quality Stain or Sealant

Not all finishes are created equal. We strongly recommend using an oil-based stain or sealant rather than a water-based or lacquer-style product.

Oil-based finishes penetrate deep into the cedar fibers instead of sitting on the surface.

This provides better protection against:

Sun exposure
Moisture and humidity
Seasonal weather changes common in Minnesota

For homeowners who plan to stain their fence themselves, Ready Seal is a reliable, easy-to-use oil-based product that enhances cedar’s natural beauty.

If you’d rather leave it to the professionals, we recommend Stain and Seal of Minneapolis at 651-615-9319.

Clean Your Fence Periodically

Cedar naturally attracts dirt, mildew, and environmental buildup that can wear down stain and age the fence prematurely.

For occasional deep cleaning:

Mix 1 part bleach with 3 parts water
Scrub problem areas with a brush
Rinse thoroughly using a garden hose or a power washer on a low setting

While cleaning isn’t always essential, it does help maintain a fresh, well-kept appearance and can extend the life of your stain.

Re-Stain Every 2–5 Years

Over time, sun and weather exposure will gradually fade your finish. Unless your fence begins to look dry or weathered sooner, plan to re-stain every 2–3 years, or up to 5 years depending on exposure and conditions.

Follow the same process used for the initial application, making sure to apply an even, consistent coat to preserve the fence’s appearance and protection.

Prevent Rot at the Base of the Fence

One of the most common issues with cedar fencing is rot near the bottom of the boards. This is a big reason we prefer using steel posts, which reduce ground contact and moisture issues.

To prevent rot:

Avoid piling mulch or soil against the fence
Make sure landscaping slopes away from the fence, not toward it
Keep the bottom of boards clear and well-ventilated

These simple steps can significantly extend the life of your cedar fence.

Final Thoughts

Cedar fencing offers timeless beauty and natural durability, but like any quality material, it performs best with proper care. Allowing the wood to dry, using the right products, keeping it clean, and preventing ground contact all help protect your investment.

With a little attention and the right approach, your cedar fence can remain strong, attractive, and functional for many years to come.