Fence

Fence Replacement Types

Whether you're replacing a worn-out fence or upgrading for curb appeal, choosing the right combination of materials makes all the difference in longevity, appearance, and value. Here's a breakdown of the most common fence replacement types — including the materials we recommend most.

Post Materials

• Steel posts (our preferred choice) — Galvanized or powder-coated steel posts deliver exceptional strength and longevity, resisting rot, insects, and ground movement far better than wood alternatives. Ideal for high-wind areas or wherever a long-term structural foundation is a priority. Steel posts pair beautifully with wood pickets for a modern, durable hybrid design.
• Pressure-treated wood posts — A traditional and cost-effective option, treated to resist moisture and insects. Best used above the frost line or in areas with moderate ground contact.
• Concrete-encased posts — Any post type set in concrete adds stability; commonly used with steel posts for maximum anchorage on uneven or sloped terrain.

Rails (Horizontal Supports)

• Pressure-treated 2x4 rails (our preferred choice) — Pre-treated dimensional lumber resists moisture, rot, and warping over time. 2x4 rails strike the ideal balance between structural rigidity and weight, making them the go-to choice for supporting cedar pickets on 6–8 ft fence spans.
• Cedar rails — Naturally rot-resistant and lightweight, a good match when the full fence system is cedar. Slightly less rigid than pressure-treated lumber.
• Metal rails — Used in commercial or high-security applications; pairs best with metal posts and metal pickets.

Pickets

• 8" cedar pickets (our preferred choice) — Western red cedar is the gold standard for wood fencing. Naturally resistant to rot, moisture, and insects without chemical treatment. At 8 inches wide, these pickets offer a bold, clean look with fewer vertical seams, making them ideal for privacy fencing. Cedar weathers to a beautiful silver-gray or takes stain evenly for a consistent finished appearance.
• Pressure-treated pine pickets — Budget-friendly and widely available; holds paint or stain well but requires more maintenance over time than cedar.
• Vinyl pickets — Low-maintenance and consistent in color, but less natural-looking and can become brittle in extreme cold.
• Composite pickets — Wood-plastic composite blends resist moisture and insects while mimicking wood grain; a premium low-maintenance alternative to cedar.

Our Recommended System

For most residential fence replacements, we recommend pairing steel posts with pressure-treated 2x4 rails and 8" cedar pickets. This combination offers the structural integrity of steel, the reliability of treated lumber, and the natural beauty and longevity of cedar — a fence built to last decades with minimal upkeep.