Not all cedar fence boards are the same. The grade of the wood can affect everything from the appearance of your fence to its cost and long-term performance.
Understanding the differences can help homeowners and fence contractors choose the right cedar for the project—and know what they’re getting for their investment.
Cedar is graded based on characteristics such as knots, grain, appearance, and overall
That doesn’t necessarily make one grade “good” and another “bad.” The right choice depends on where and how the fence will be used, the desired appearance, and the project budget.
Clear cedar contains few or no visible knots, giving it a smooth, consistent appearance. It is often selected for high-end residential projects and architectural applications where the fence is intended to be a prominent design feature.
Because clear cedar requires higher-quality lumber, it is typically a more premium option.
Select and premium cedar grades provide an attractive balance between consistency and the natural characteristics of the wood. Some knots may be present, but boards are selected to provide a pleasing overall appearance.
These grades can be an excellent choice for residential fencing where homeowners want the warmth and character of real cedar without necessarily requiring the uniform appearance of clear lumber.
Knotty grades feature more visible knots and variations from board to board. For many homeowners, that’s part of the appeal.
The result is a fence with a more natural, rustic appearance that showcases the individual character of the wood. Knotty cedar can also provide an economical way to get the natural beauty and benefits of cedar.
The quality of a cedar fence begins well before installation. AVO owns and operates its own cedar mill in Maine, giving us greater control over the eastern white cedar used in our fencing—from sourcing and milling to grading and finished fence products.
This connection to the source helps us maintain consistent quality while offering cedar options suited to different fence styles, applications, and budgets.
Start with how you want the finished fence to look. A highly visible fence surrounding a landscaped backyard may call for a more uniform grade, while a privacy or perimeter fence may be a great application for cedar with more natural variation.
Budget, fence style, location, and the desired level of finish should all factor into the decision.
At AVO Fence & Supply, we work with homeowners and fence professionals to match the right cedar products to each project. And because our connection to the material starts at our own cedar mill, we understand what goes into the fence long before it reaches your property.
Not sure which cedar grade is right for your project? Talk with the AVO team about your design, application, and budget, and we’ll help you find the right fit. Contact us today to start designing your custom fencing or visit our Stoughton, Hingham, or Plymouth store to explore fencing options that fit your home and your lifestyle.