Florida’s Climate and Your Wood Fence
Florida is paradise — sunshine, palm trees, and year-round outdoor living. But the same tropical beauty also brings heat, humidity, and relentless moisture that can take a serious toll on your fence.
If you’re planning to install a new wood fence in Ocala or Marion County, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing between pressure-treated pine and cedar.
At Ocala Florida Fence Pros, we get this question from homeowners daily:
“Which type of wood fence lasts longer in Florida’s weather?”
The answer depends on your priorities — durability, aesthetics, maintenance, or budget. In this guide, we’ll break down the science behind both wood types and help you choose the perfect material for your home.
Understanding the Two Main Types of Wood Fencing
Before diving into performance, let’s define what each type is and why homeowners choose them.
1. Pressure-Treated Pine Fencing
Pressure-treated (PT) pine is one of the most popular fencing materials in Florida. It’s made from southern yellow pine that’s treated with preservatives under high pressure to protect it against rot, mold, and termites.
Why homeowners love it:
Cost-effective and widely available.
Can be stained or painted any color.
Resistant to insect and fungal damage.
However, because it’s softer than cedar, it’s more prone to warping, cracking, and shrinking over time — especially in high-humidity regions like Ocala.
2. Cedar Wood Fencing
Cedar is naturally rot- and insect-resistant due to its oils and tannins. It doesn’t require chemical treatment to survive Florida’s weather, and it has a beautiful reddish hue that ages into a silver-gray patina.
Why homeowners love it:
Naturally weather-resistant.
Aromatic and visually appealing.
Minimal warping or twisting.
The downside? It’s typically more expensive than pressure-treated pine. But for homeowners focused on long-term value and aesthetics, cedar often wins the race.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Cedar vs. Pressure-Treated Pine
Let’s compare both materials across the most important categories for Florida homes.
1. Durability in Florida’s Climate
Florida humidity is relentless. Constant moisture can lead to rot, decay, and mold.
Pressure-Treated Pine: Holds up well because of chemical treatment, but can warp or crack if not sealed regularly.
Cedar: Naturally resists moisture, keeping its shape even in 95% humidity.
🏆 Winner: Cedar — its natural stability makes it ideal for humid, coastal climates.
2. Resistance to Termites and Insects
Florida is termite country. Your fence must stand up to pests year-round.
Pressure-Treated Pine: Treated with insect-resistant chemicals.
Cedar: Naturally repels insects due to its aromatic oils.
🏆 Winner: Tie — both materials perform well, but cedar avoids chemical treatments.
3. Lifespan and Longevity
Pressure-Treated Pine: Lasts about 15–20 years with maintenance.
Cedar: Can last 20–25 years, sometimes longer, with proper care.
🏆 Winner: Cedar — costs more upfront, but delivers longer performance.
4. Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance determines your fence’s real lifespan.
Pressure-Treated Pine: Needs staining or sealing every 2–3 years to prevent cracking and water absorption.
Cedar: Needs sealing every 3–5 years; less likely to warp.
🏆 Winner: Cedar — less maintenance, fewer headaches.
5. Aesthetic Appeal
Your fence is part of your home’s curb appeal.
Pressure-Treated Pine: Has a pale greenish tint that can be customized with paint or stain.
Cedar: Naturally beautiful, rich red tones — often left unstained.
🏆 Winner: Cedar — timeless beauty and distinctive character.
6. Cost Comparison
Pressure-Treated Pine: Around $20–$30 per linear foot installed.
Cedar: Typically $35–$50 per linear foot installed.
🏆 Winner: Pressure-Treated Pine — the budget-friendly option.
The Florida Factor: Humidity, Rain, and Soil Conditions
Ocala’s tropical climate means frequent rain, sandy soil, and intense sunlight — all major influences on fence longevity.
Humidity: Promotes rot in untreated wood. Cedar resists this naturally; pressure-treated wood relies on chemical preservation.
Soil: Florida’s sandy soil drains quickly but shifts over time, affecting post stability. Deep-set concrete footing is essential for both.
Sun Exposure: UV rays dry out pine faster, causing splits; cedar naturally resists UV degradation better.
Verdict: Cedar is more stable in the long run, but pressure-treated pine performs well when professionally installed and maintained.
Installation Quality: The Secret to Longevity
Regardless of wood type, installation technique plays a bigger role in lifespan than most people realize.
At Ocala Florida Fence Pros, we don’t just install — we engineer fences for Florida conditions.
Here’s how:
Posts set 30–36 inches deep with high-strength concrete.
Stainless steel fasteners prevent rust and streaking.
Proper airflow spacing minimizes moisture buildup.
Sealed cut ends to prevent internal rot.
Post caps and drainage slopes to divert water.
Even pressure-treated wood can outperform cedar if installed professionally — and that’s what sets our fences apart.
Environmental Impact: Chemical vs. Natural
If eco-friendliness matters to you, cedar takes the lead.
Pressure-Treated Pine: Uses preservatives like alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ). Safe, but not 100% natural.
Cedar: All-natural resistance means fewer chemicals and a smaller environmental footprint.
🏆 Winner: Cedar — sustainable and naturally durable.
Cedar vs. Pine: Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | Cedar | Pressure-Treated Pine |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | ✅ Excellent | ⚪ Good |
| Maintenance | ✅ Low | ⚪ Moderate |
| Cost | ⚪ Higher | ✅ Lower |
| Aesthetic | ✅ Natural beauty | ⚪ Paint/stain required |
| Pest Resistance | ✅ Natural oils | ✅ Chemical treatment |
| Environmental Impact | ✅ Eco-friendly | ⚪ Chemical use |
If your priority is budget and practicality, pressure-treated pine is a smart choice.
If your focus is beauty, longevity, and minimal upkeep, cedar wins hands down.
Either way, Ocala Florida Fence Pros ensures your fence is installed to handle Florida’s humidity, hurricanes, and sandy soil.
Fence Maintenance Tips for Florida Homeowners
Keep your fence in top shape year-round:
Clean annually with mild soap and water.
Inspect posts and rails for early signs of rot.
Seal or stain as needed to prevent UV and water damage.
Trim landscaping away from fence lines for airflow.
Avoid sprinkler overspray that keeps the wood constantly wet.
Routine care extends your fence’s lifespan and protects your investment.
Testimonials
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Sarah M., Ocala, FL
“Ocala Florida Fence Pros helped me pick cedar, and it’s been flawless through two rainy seasons. Beautiful and sturdy!”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Mark T., Marion Oaks, FL
“I went with pressure-treated pine for budget reasons. Two years later, it still looks great thanks to their expert installation.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Rachel G., Silver Springs, FL
“The team walked me through every detail. Their honesty and professionalism made me a lifelong customer.”
Why Choose Ocala Florida Fence Pros
✅ Locally owned and operated in Marion County.
✅ Experts in Florida humidity and soil conditions.
✅ Professional installation that prevents warping and sagging.
✅ Quality craftsmanship and fair pricing.
✅ Every project backed by warranty and satisfaction guarantee.
Whether it’s pressure-treated pine or cedar, we make sure your fence lasts longer, looks better, and adds value to your home.
Call to Action
Protect your home, enhance your curb appeal, and get the perfect wood fence for Florida’s climate.
📞 Call Ocala Florida Fence Pros today at 352-352-9985 for a FREE estimate and professional advice on cedar vs. pressure-treated fencing.
Our fences are built for Florida weather, built for beauty, and built to last.