Why Western Red Cedar Is the Best Wood for Fences in Colorado

April 22, 2025

Why Western Red Cedar Is the Best Wood for Fences in Colorado

A wooden fence surrounds a lush green yard.

When it comes to choosing the right material for a fence in Colorado, homeowners are faced with a lot of options. But time and time again, one type of wood stands out above the rest—Western Red Cedar. It’s not just a classic choice—it’s a smart one, especially for Colorado's unique climate and lifestyle.


Here’s why Western Red Cedar is hands down the best wood for fencing in the Centennial State.


1. Built to Handle Colorado’s Wild Weather


Colorado is known for its rapid weather shifts—sunshine one minute, hail the next. Western Red Cedar naturally resists warping, shrinking, and swelling, which means it holds up better than most other woods when temperatures swing.

Its low moisture content helps it stay straight and stable, even through snowstorms, hot summers, and sudden rain.


2. Naturally Resistant to Rot and Insects


Thanks to its natural oils and tannins, Western Red Cedar resists rot, decay, and insect damage without needing heavy chemical treatment. This is a big deal in Colorado, where soil moisture can vary and termites aren’t uncommon in some regions. So you get a fence that looks better, lasts longer, and needs less maintenance.


3. Beautiful, Timeless Curb Appeal


Let’s be real—a fence isn’t just about function. It’s about form, too. Western Red Cedar has a warm, rich tone with a straight grain and tight knots that age beautifully over time. Whether you stain it to enhance the natural color or let it weather to a silvery gray, it always looks high-end. In neighborhoods where curb appeal matters, a cedar fence makes a strong first impression.


4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable


If you care about sustainability, Western Red Cedar is a great choice. It’s harvested responsibly in North America and is fully biodegradable at the end of its life cycle. It also requires less energy to produce compared to synthetic materials like vinyl or composite fencing. Plus, since it lasts longer, you’re not replacing your fence every few years—which saves resources and money.


5. Easy to Work With


Western Red Cedar is lightweight and easy to cut, nail, and install. That means fewer labor hours and faster installation—saving you time and money on your fencing project. And if repairs are needed down the road, working with cedar makes the process much simpler.


Bottom Line: Cedar Is King in Colorado


At Great Neighbor Fence, we’ve built fences all across Colorado, and Western Red Cedar is our top recommendation for good reason. It balances performance, beauty, and durability like no other wood can.


If you’re looking to invest in a fence that will stand up to Colorado’s elements, look great for years, and give you the best value —Western Red Cedar is the way to go.


Thinking about a new fence?


Contact us today for a free estimate and let’s make good neighbors great!