Wood Privacy Fence Panels
Wood privacy fence panels are the most popular and affordable option. Compare pressure-treated pine, cedar, and redwood panels by size, price, and durability.
Material Cost
$15 – $45/linear ft
Available Materials
2 materials
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Available Panel Materials
Wood privacy fence panels remain the most popular choice for residential fencing, offering the best balance of affordability, appearance, and availability. Pre-built panels speed up installation significantly compared to building board-by-board.
Pressure-treated pine panels are the most affordable at $40–$80 per 6x6 panel and $55–$100 per 6x8 panel. Pine is treated with preservatives that resist rot and insects for 10–15 years. These panels must be stained or sealed after weathering for 2–3 months.
Cedar panels cost more at $60–$120 per panel but offer natural rot and insect resistance without chemical treatment. Cedar's beautiful grain and warm color make it the premium wood panel choice. It weathers to an attractive silver-gray if left unstained.
Standard wood panel types include dog-ear (rounded top corners — most common), flat-top (straight cut tops for a clean look), shadowbox/board-on-board (alternating boards on both sides), and french gothic (pointed top boards for a decorative look).
When buying wood panels, inspect each one for warping, splitting, and knots. Boards should be straight and consistently sized. Buy 5–10% extra to account for defective panels and cutting waste. Store panels flat and off the ground until installation day.
Published February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Maintain a Wood Fence
Annual Maintenance Checklist
A well-maintained wood fence can last 15-20 years. Follow this annual routine:
- Inspect for loose boards, leaning posts, and rot — especially at ground level
- Clean with a garden hose or light pressure wash (1,500-2,000 PSI max)
- Trim vegetation, vines, and tree branches away from the fence
- Repair damaged boards, tighten hardware, and re-secure loose rails
Staining and Sealing
Apply a quality wood stain or sealant every 2-3 years. This is the single most important thing you can do to extend your fence's life. Wait for a dry period with temperatures between 50-90°F. New pressure-treated wood should weather for 2-3 months before the first stain application.
Preventing Rot
The most common failure point is where posts meet the ground. Ensure posts are set in concrete (not bare soil) and that water drains away from the base. Keeping the bottom of fence boards 1-2 inches above ground prevents moisture wicking.
What Is the Cheapest Fence to Build?
Most Affordable Privacy Fence Options
If budget is your primary concern, here are your best options from cheapest to most expensive:
- Bamboo: $10–$25/ft — cheapest eco-friendly privacy option
- Wood privacy: $15–$35/ft — cheapest durable privacy fence
- Cedar: $20–$45/ft — premium wood with natural rot resistance
- Vinyl: $20–$40/ft — cheapest long-term when factoring in zero maintenance
How to Save Money
- DIY installation saves 40-50% on labor costs
- Pressure-treated pine is the cheapest wood (vs. cedar or redwood)
- Standard 6-foot height costs less than 8-foot
- Straight runs cost less than lots of corners and angles
- Off-season installation (late fall/winter) may get better contractor rates
Cheapest vs. Best Value
The cheapest fence upfront isn't always the best value. A $15/ft wood fence lasting 12 years costs $1.25/ft per year. A $30/ft vinyl fence lasting 25 years costs $1.20/ft per year — actually cheaper over time.