Wood Fence vs. Composite: Which Fits Texas Best?

Choosing between wood fencing and composite in the Lone Star State can feel overwhelming. With scorching summers, unpredictable storms, and shifting clay soil, the wrong choice might cost you big in future repairs. Today, we’ll compare classic wood fences (like cedar or pine) to modern composite materials. You’ll discover which option handles Texas’s climate better, how each affects your yard’s style, and what real-life Tharp Fencing & Staining customers say about their experiences.

Head-To-Head Highlights

• Authentic wood offers classic appeal but requires sealing to handle Texas heat.
• Composite resists weather well but might look less natural up close.
• Initial cost for composite is higher, yet maintenance expenses run low.
• Call 817-807-6763 to confirm which suits your budget and style goals.

Now let’s explore how each factor (myths,cost, appearance, durability) stacks up in detail.

Myth #1: “Composite Fences Never Warp—So They’re Always Better”

• Reality: While composite is more stable than raw wood, intense Texas heat can still cause slight bowing or expansion. It’s less dramatic than untreated pine, but not 100% immune to heat.
• What to Do: If you’re set on composite, pick a higher-grade product. Cheap brands can degrade faster under UV rays.

Texas-Specific Considerations

1. UV Exposure: West-facing fences get blasted by late-afternoon sun. Some composite finishes handle this better than others.
2. Soil Movement: Whether it’s cedar or composite, you’ll need deeper postholes in areas like Mansfield or Burleson with shifting ground.
3. HOA Restrictions: Some neighborhoods in Frisco or McKinney might limit composite fences due to uniform aesthetic requirements. Always check local rules first.

Sidebar: Local Testimonial

One Tharp client in Crowley praised their cedar fence for “holding up beautifully,” noting a composite fence next door looked dull after a year. That’s not universal, but highlights how important brand quality is for composite boards. If you want to learn more about Tharp Fencing and Staining comprehensive services please click here

Deck & Fence Combo Tip

If you’re also planning a deck, you might consider Deck Building and choose matching materials. A cedar deck paired with a composite fence may look mismatched unless you coordinate the color tones carefully.

Major Differences

1. Maintenance

• Wood: Requires staining or sealing every couple of years.
• Composite: Minimal color fading, no staining needed, but occasional cleaning of dust or mildew buildup.

2. Upfront Cost

• Wood: Typically cheaper initially, especially pine or standard cedar.
• Composite: Higher initial price tag, but often touted for lower ongoing maintenance.

3. Appearance

• Wood: Natural grains, color variations, charming knots, or swirling patterns.
• Composite: Uniform planks, though some advanced brands texture boards to resemble wood’s grain.

Fence Myth #2: “Wood Fences Always Need Complete Replacement After a Decade”

• Reality: Regular power washing, staining, and minor repairs can push a wood fence well beyond 10 years—especially if you choose cedar and keep up with Wood Fencing best practices.
• Pro Tip: Tharp’s monthly fence+stain specials can make maintenance more affordable.

Common Mistake: Selecting the Cheapest Composite

Some budget composite boards contain fillers that weaken with intense UV. Or they might peel if the protective cap is poor. If you opt for composite, vet the brand thoroughly.

FAQ: Which Fence Has Better Resale Value in DFW?

Answer: It depends on buyer preference. Wood fences with quality staining can look warm and classic, appealing to families who love that “natural yard” vibe. Composite might attract homeowners wanting minimal maintenance. On average, an attractive fence of either type can boost curb appeal—just ensure consistent upkeep.

Secrets Other Contractors Don’t Want You to Know

1. Secret #1: Some push composite primarily for higher profit margins. Sometimes a well-stained cedar fence (lower cost to you) can outlast cheap composite boards.
2. Secret #2: Contractors occasionally skip deeper post settings when installing composite to “save labor,” risking future tilting. Demand that posts go 2+ feet down, especially in shifting soils near Mansfield.
3. Secret #3: Certain “lifetime composite warranties” exclude damage from extreme Texas heat. Read the fine print before believing it’s completely covered.

Location-Specific Angle

• Plano & McKinney: Check with HOAs about composite color requirements. Some neighborhoods want neutral browns or grays only.
• Burleson & Crowley: Larger yards might lean to wood for cost-effectiveness, especially if you have hundreds of feet to enclose.
• Frisco: Newer subdivisions often allow both but might have uniform fence heights or front yard style restrictions.

Cost Breakdown Example

Wood (Cedar)

• Materials: ~$X–$Y per linear foot
• Maintenance: Stain every 2–3 years, approximately $Z each time
• Lifespan: 15+ years with good care

Composite

• Materials: ~$X+20%–$Y+20% per linear foot
• Maintenance: Minimal—just cleaning
• Lifespan: 20+ years, assuming no severe heat warping

If you’re unsure which is better for your yard, contact Tharp Fencing & Staining for an honest assessment. We’ll factor your budget, local conditions, and personal aesthetic preference.

3 Biggest Myths: Quick Recap

1. “Composite is 100% Maintenance-Free” – You still must clean it.
2. “Wood Always Warps in Texas” – Cedar, properly stained, stays stable for years.
3. “Composite Costs the Same as Wood” – Typically higher, so weigh that in.

Conclusion & CTA

When picking between wood fencing and composite for your Texas property, there’s no single “best” choice. It depends on climate demands, budget, and how much you love the classic wood look. Composite can be superb if you invest in quality boards—but don’t dismiss wood’s charm and proven track record in DFW.

Ready to make a decision? Call 817-807-6763 for a FREE estimate. Ask about this month’s special on fence installation + staining packages. A friendly Tharp Fencing & Staining team member will help customize the ideal fence to withstand Texas weather for years to come.