Chain Link vs. Cedar Fencing Which Is Right for Your Property?
Choosing the right fence type matters. Cascade Fencing helps property owners across Central Oregon find the perfect balance of security, privacy, and curb appeal.
Request a Free EstimateTwo Great Fencing Options — One Clear Decision
When it comes to fencing your property in Central Oregon, two options consistently rise to the top: chain link and cedar. Both are proven performers in our climate, but they serve very different purposes. Chain link delivers affordable, low-maintenance security, while cedar provides natural beauty, privacy, and lasting durability that enhances your home's value.
At Cascade Fencing, we specialize in both custom cedar fencing and chain link fence installation. Our team works with residential and commercial property owners throughout Crook and Deschutes counties to determine which fencing solution best fits their needs, budget, and property. Whether you're securing a backyard, enclosing livestock, or adding privacy to your home, we'll help you make the right call.
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Why Choose Cascade Fencing for Your Project?
Whether you go with chain link or cedar, the quality of your fence depends on who builds it. Cascade Fencing is locally owned and operated in Prineville, Oregon, and our team brings experienced craftsmanship and transparent pricing to every project across Crook and Deschutes counties.
- Locally owned and operated in Prineville, OR
- Transparent, detailed estimates with no hidden fees
- Top-quality materials built to handle Central Oregon weather
- Custom fencing solutions tailored to your property
- Direct communication — work with the owner, not a middleman
Chain Link vs. Cedar at a Glance
Upfront Cost
Chain link is the more budget-friendly option. Cedar costs more upfront but adds property value and curb appeal that pays off over time.
Privacy
Cedar delivers full privacy with solid board construction. Chain link is open by design, though privacy slats can be added for partial coverage.
Maintenance
Chain link requires virtually no maintenance. Cedar benefits from occasional staining or sealing to preserve its natural beauty and longevity.
Lifespan
Both options last decades when installed correctly. Quality cedar can last 20+ years, and galvanized chain link holds up even longer with zero upkeep.
Appearance
Cedar wins on aesthetics with its warm, natural look and endless custom design options. Chain link is more utilitarian but gets the job done.
Security
Both types provide strong perimeter security. Chain link excels for large areas, while cedar adds the bonus of blocking sightlines into your property.
A Closer Look at Each Fence Type
Cedar Fencing: Privacy & Beauty
If privacy is your top priority, cedar fencing is the clear winner. Solid board construction blocks sightlines completely, giving you a secluded space for your family, pets, and outdoor living. Unlike chain link with privacy slats, cedar delivers a seamless, natural look that blends beautifully with Central Oregon's landscape.
Beyond privacy, cedar fencing dramatically improves your property's curb appeal. The warm, natural wood tones complement any home style, and a well-built cedar fence can increase property value—a factor many homeowners in Bend, Redmond, and Prineville appreciate when it comes time to sell.
Cedar Fencing: Durability in Central Oregon
Central Oregon's climate is tough on fencing. Summer heat, winter freeze-thaw cycles, and dry conditions take their toll. Cedar handles it all. The wood's natural oils resist rot, decay, and insect damage without requiring chemical treatments, making it one of the most durable natural fencing materials available.
With periodic staining or sealing every few years, a cedar fence built by Cascade Fencing can easily last 20 years or more. We use only top-quality cedar and proven construction techniques to ensure your fence stands strong through every season.
Cedar Fencing: Custom Design Options
One of cedar's biggest advantages is versatility. At Cascade Fencing, we build custom cedar fences in a wide range of styles—from classic dog-ear and board-on-board to lattice-top designs that add elegance without sacrificing privacy. You choose the height, style, and finish that matches your vision.
Whether you want a good-neighbor fence that looks great from both sides, a decorative accent fence for your front yard, or a tall privacy fence for your backyard, our team works with you to design and build exactly what you need. Every fence is custom-built on-site to fit your property's unique layout.
Chain Link Fencing: Affordability
Chain link fencing is the most cost-effective way to secure a large area. If you need to enclose an entire property, a commercial lot, or agricultural acreage without breaking the budget, chain link delivers reliable perimeter security at a fraction of the cost of wood or metal alternatives.
At Cascade Fencing, we install durable, galvanized chain link fences that hold up to Central Oregon's elements year after year. Our transparent pricing means you'll know exactly what to expect—no hidden fees, no surprises—just a strong fence at a fair price.
Chain Link Fencing: Low Maintenance
For property owners who want a "set it and forget it" solution, chain link is hard to beat. Galvanized chain link resists rust and corrosion, requires no painting or staining, and won't warp, rot, or attract insects. Once installed, your chain link fence needs virtually nothing from you except the occasional rinse with a garden hose.
This makes chain link especially popular for agricultural properties, rental homes, and commercial sites where keeping maintenance costs low is a priority. It's a practical, no-fuss fencing solution that just works.
Chain Link Fencing: Versatility
Chain link is one of the most versatile fence types available. It works equally well for residential backyards, dog runs, sports fields, construction sites, and large agricultural enclosures. Different heights, gauges, and coatings (including vinyl-coated options in black or green) allow you to tailor the fence to your specific application.
Need to add privacy later? Slats can be woven into the mesh. Want extra security? Barbed wire or razor ribbon can be added to commercial installations. Chain link gives you a solid foundation that can be customized over time as your needs change.
Chain Link vs. Cedar Fencing FAQs
Chain link fencing is generally the more affordable option upfront, especially for larger properties. However, cedar fencing adds value to your property and offers privacy that chain link cannot match without additional modifications. The best choice depends on your budget, priorities, and what you need the fence to do. Cascade Fencing provides free, detailed estimates for both options so you can compare costs for your specific project.
Both fence types hold up well in Central Oregon when installed correctly. Galvanized chain link can last 20–30 years with virtually no maintenance. Cedar fencing typically lasts 15–25 years, and with periodic staining or sealing, it can push past 20 years easily. At Cascade Fencing, we use only top-quality materials and construction methods that maximize the lifespan of every fence we build.
Yes, privacy slats can be woven into chain link mesh to block partial sightlines, and privacy screens or fabric can be attached for additional coverage. However, if full privacy is your primary goal, a solid cedar fence will always deliver a more complete and attractive result. Our team can walk you through the options and help you decide what makes the most sense for your property.
Both chain link and cedar fencing work well for keeping pets and children safely contained. Chain link allows visibility so you can see through the fence, while cedar provides a solid barrier that also blocks outside distractions for dogs that tend to bark at passersby. The right choice depends on your yard layout and whether visibility or privacy is more important to your family.
Absolutely. Cascade Fencing specializes in both chain link and cedar fence installation throughout Crook and Deschutes counties. We also build custom fences and agricultural fencing. Our team can help you evaluate both options on-site and provide a detailed estimate tailored to your property and goals.
The best fence for your property depends on several factors: your primary goal (privacy, security, or aesthetics), the size of the area to be fenced, your budget, and any HOA or local regulations. Cascade Fencing offers free on-site consultations where we assess your property, discuss your needs, and recommend the best fencing solution. There's no pressure and no obligation—just honest, expert advice from a trusted local fence contractor.
Cascade Fencing is headquartered in Prineville, Oregon, and serves communities throughout Crook and Deschutes counties, including Bend, Redmond, Sisters, Madras, Culver, Terrebonne, Crooked River Ranch, Eagle Crest, Lapine, and surrounding areas. Contact us for a free estimate regardless of where you're located in Central Oregon—we'll let you know if we can serve your area.
Devin is real easy to talk to and explains the process of building the fence really well. He followed through with the job as promised. He did an excellent job. We are totally satisfied with the fence.
Our Fencing Services
Cedar Fencing
Natural, durable, and stylish—our cedar fences add beauty and privacy to any residential or commercial property.
Learn MoreChain Link Fencing
Affordable, strong, and virtually maintenance-free chain link fencing ideal for securing large areas.
Learn MoreCustom Fencing
Tailored fencing solutions designed to meet your specific needs, preferences, and property layout.
Learn MoreAgricultural Fencing
Durable and reliable agricultural fencing designed to protect your livestock, crops, and property boundaries.
Learn MoreMobile Livestock Shelters
Portable, durable livestock shelters built to protect your animals from Central Oregon's elements.
Learn MoreProject Gallery
Browse photos from recent fencing projects to see the quality and craftsmanship Cascade Fencing delivers.
View GalleryWhat Sets Cascade Fencing Apart
Locally Owned & Operated
Based in Prineville, Oregon, we're part of the community we serve. We take pride in building fences for our neighbors across Crook and Deschutes counties.
Transparent Pricing
Detailed, upfront estimates with no hidden fees. The price we quote is the price you pay—every time.
Experienced Craftsmanship
Every fence is built by hand with attention to detail. We don't cut corners—we build fences that last.
Direct Communication
You work directly with the owner from estimate to completion. No call centers, no runaround—just straightforward service.
Top-Quality Materials
We use premium cedar, commercial-grade chain link, and the best hardware available to ensure your fence stands the test of time.
No Mess Left Behind
When the job is done, we clean up completely. Your property is left looking better than we found it.