Care and Maintenance Guide
Caring for and maintaining your eastern white cedar privacy fence is essential to protecting your investment and ensuring long-term performance. While eastern white cedar is naturally rot- and insect-resistant, ongoing exposure to sun, rain, snow, and temperature changes can still take a toll over time. Proper care helps the fence withstand these elements and significantly extends its lifespan.
Regular maintenance preserves structural integrity by preventing small issues—such as loose fasteners, warped boards, or shifting posts—from becoming costly repairs. Periodic inspections and minor fixes keep the fence straight, sturdy, and able to handle wind and weather.
Maintenance also plays a major role in appearance. Eastern white cedar is valued for its natural color and grain, which enhance curb appeal. Without care, the wood will weather and fade. Cleaning and applying a quality stain or sealer helps maintain its look and protects the surface from UV damage and moisture.
Keeping the fence clear of debris, soil, and vegetation helps prevent moisture buildup, reducing the risk of mold, mildew, and premature deterioration—especially near the ground. This simple step goes a long way in protecting the wood.
Ultimately, consistent care saves money by reducing the need for major repairs or early replacement and ensures the fence continues to provide privacy, security, and visual appeal. With routine maintenance, an eastern white cedar privacy fence will remain strong, functional, and attractive for many years.
Need assistance? Contact us at sales@goodfenceofmaine.com.
Care Guide: Step-by-Step Maintenance
Follow these steps to keep your Eastern White Cedar privacy panel fence in good standing:
1. Let It Weather (or Seal It)
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Natural option: Eastern white cedar can be left unfinished. It will weather to a soft silver-gray over time without losing durability.
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Sealed option: If you want to keep the warm cedar color, apply a UV-inhibiting, oil-based penetrating stain or sealer.
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Apply within the first few months after installation.
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Reapply every 2–4 years, depending on sun exposure.
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2. Keep It Clean
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Rinse the fence once or twice a year with a garden hose to remove dirt, pollen, and dust.
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For buildup or mildew:
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Use a mild soap or cedar-safe cleaner and a soft brush.
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Avoid pressure washers—they can damage the wood fibers.
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3. Watch Ground Contact
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Make sure panels stay off the soil and aren’t buried by mulch or leaves.
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Clear debris at the base of the fence to prevent trapped moisture, which can shorten lifespan.
4. Check Fasteners & Posts
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Once a year, walk the fence line and:
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Tighten or replace loose fasteners.
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Look for shifting posts or sagging panels, especially after winter freeze-thaw cycles.
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Use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners to prevent staining and corrosion.
5. Expect Natural Movement
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Eastern white cedar will:
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Slightly shrink or expand with seasonal moisture changes
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Develop small surface checks (cracks)
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This is normal and does not affect strength or longevity.
6. Trim Nearby Vegetation
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Keep bushes, vines, and trees from growing directly against the fence.
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Good airflow helps the cedar dry out and prevents mold or mildew.
7. Winter & Storm Care
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Avoid piling snow against the panels.
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After heavy storms, check for impact damage from branches or drifting debris.
Bottom Line
Eastern white cedar is naturally rot-resistant and insect-resistant. With basic cleaning, good drainage, and optional sealing, a cedar privacy panel fence can easily last 20–30 years or more while still looking great.
Contact Good Fence Co of Maine at sales@goodfenceofmaine.com or visit our Contact page to schedule a consultation or repair service.