Pros and Cons Using Cedar Wood for Fences

Fences are an important part of any home. They provide privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal to your property. When choosing materials for a new fence, cedar is an excellent option to consider. Here is an in-depth look at the Pros and Cons of using cedar wood for fences and how to incorporate it into your outdoor living space.

An Overview of Cedar Wood

Cedar refers to a variety of coniferous trees in the plant family Cupressaceae. There are several cedar species native to different parts of the world, but most cedar used for fencing comes from trees in the Thuja or Juniperus genera.

Some of the most common types of cedar used for fencing in North America include:

Western red cedar (Thuja plicata) – Native to the Pacific Northwest, known for its reddish-brown color and natural resistance to decay.
Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) – Found throughout eastern North America, somewhat less rot resistant than western red cedar.
Incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens) – Native to western US, has a more variegated color pattern.
Northern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis) – Also called arborvitae, native to northeastern US and Canada.

All these cedar species share some beneficial attributes that make them well-suited for outdoor fencing:

Natural decay and insect resistance – Cedar contains oils called thujone and fenchone that act as natural preservatives, making it resistant to rot, fungi, and insects. This gives cedar fencing exceptional longevity.

Dimensional stability – The dense, closed-grain structure of cedar minimizes swelling and shrinkage from moisture changes. Fences hold their shape well over time.

Pleasing aroma – Freshly cut cedar has a slightly spicy, balsam-like fragrance from the natural oils.

Attractive appearance – Cedar fences enhance aesthetics with colors ranging from reddish-brown to yellowish-white and distinctive grain patterns.

Strength and durability – Cedar has moderate strength and hardness properties. Properly installed cedar fences withstand weather and everyday wear and tear.

Workability – The soft, lightweight wood is relatively easy to cut, shape, and fasten using common tools and basic carpentry skills.

Proper installation and maintenance means a cedar wood fence can last for decades, far longer than cheaper softwoods like pine. The natural properties that make cedar resilient make it a perfect building material for outdoor fences.

Key Benefits of Cedar Fencing

Here are some of the top advantages that make cedar one of the best choices for fencing:

Long-Lasting Durability

The primary benefit of using cedar for fences is its natural durability and decay resistance. The natural preservative oils slow down the breakdown from moisture, sun exposure, insects, and fungal growth.

Cedar is classified as one of the most decay-resistant woods used in the lumber industry. It can last up to 30 years or longer with proper upkeep, much longer than cheaper pine fences that may need replacing in less than 10 years.

While no wood is immune to deterioration forever, cedar’s longevity means your fence will require less frequent repairs and replacements. The initial investment pays off long-term when considering the total ownership cost over decades.

Low Maintenance Needs

Another advantage of cedar’s natural durability is that it requires very little annual maintenance to keep your fence looking good.

Cedar’s natural oils help it withstand weathering from sun, rain, and snow without a protective finish. And unlike pressure-treated pine, cedar doesn’t require toxic chemical treatments to prevent rot and insect damage.

You don’t need to paint or stain a cedar fence for preservation. A clear sealer or tinted stain is optional and mainly for aesthetic purposes. An annual cleaning with a mild detergent and rinse is sufficient maintenance for most cedar fences.

The minimal upkeep is a huge perk for homeowners wanting an attractive, worry-free backyard fence. Cedar’s weather resistance also decreases labour costs since fences don’t need frequent repairs or replacement boards.

Pest and Decay Resistance

Wood-boring insects like termites and carpenter ants can quickly damage untreated pine or fir fences. Fungal decay from moisture exposure creates openings for structural failure.

Cedar’s natural oils act as insect and fungal repellents, keeping pests away and slowing moisture penetration into the wood’s cells. Any insects or fungi that do start attacking cedar will do so much more slowly than other woods.

This natural pest and rot resistance minimizes the chances of insects and moisture damage. Cedar fence boards stay straighter and last longer before needing replacement. The result is a longer-lasting and lower-maintenance fence.

Minimal Warping or Checking

Lumber dimensions can shift with changes in moisture and temperature, causing warping, cupping, or cracking known as checking. This can leave planks looking warped and fasteners loosening over time.

Cedar is far more dimensionally stable than other woods. The dense grain structure and oils minimize water penetration and cell damage. Cedar will shrink and expand less through seasonal humidity and temperature swings.

Cedar fence boards hold their shape well, lie flatter, and check less than pine or fir. Tight board joints retain better paint/stain coverage. Minimal distortion also helps cedar fences withstand wind, rain, and snow loads.

Attractive, Natural Appearance

Whether stained or left natural, cedar has an attractive, rustic aesthetic perfect for boundaries, privacy barriers, and ornamental backyard structures.

Cedar offers a palette of warm reddish-brown hues and interesting grain patterns. The wood mellows to an elegant silver-gray as it naturally weathers. Large wooden fences can become an impressive visual feature on the landscape.

Homeowners appreciate how cedar enhances natural settings. Its adaptable style also complements gardens, stonework, and a wide range of home architecture from modern to traditional. The look of cedar fits well in both urban and rural settings.

Lightweight and Easy to Work

Pine and fir construction lumber is sold mainly in dense, heavy sections that can be awkward and tiring for DIYers to install. Conversely, Cedar offers an advantage with its relatively light weight and ease of handling.

Soft, lightweight cedar boards are easy for a homeowner to measure, cut, and fasten into place. No special tools or lumber expertise is required. The wood’s softness also allows for intricate cuts for post tops and other decorative elements.

Cedar’s workability makes it accessible to homeowners with basic carpentry skills and hand tools. Experienced woodworkers can craft more elaborate fences to showcase cedar’s versatility. Either way, cedar’s user-friendly qualities simplify installation.

Good Value for the Investment

Upfront cost is always a consideration for major home projects. Though more expensive than pressure-treated pine, cedar still offers an excellent return given its exceptional lifespan and performance.

Well-built cedar fences will easily outlast cheaper options 2-3 times over. Factoring in cedar’s durability, low maintenance needs, and aesthetic appeal, it delivers excellent value to the smart homeowner thinking long term.

Cedar’s strength, natural pest/rot resistance, and dimensional stability also mean fewer costly repairs down the road. The fence will last longer before any boards need replacement. All this reduces lifetime maintenance costs.

Disadvantages of Cedar Fencing

Cedar has many advantages for fencing but a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind:

Higher upfront cost – Cedar fencing is approximately 2-3 times more expensive than pine. Opt for the highest quality for durability.
Can be prone to splitting – Cedar is soft and brittle, so ends may split while hammering in nails. Pre-drill holes to prevent this.
Limited insect resistance – Cedar resists most pests but is vulnerable to woodwasps that chew through cell structures.
Some ongoing maintenance required – Cedar needs occasional cleaning, sealing, or re-staining to keep its best look.
Sap/tannins can bleed through finish – Discoloration can occur if sealant isn’t applied properly to trap in natural oils.
Susceptible to UV damage – Cedar’s natural color fades to gray without a UV-protective finish.

No material is perfect, so weigh the minor weaknesses against cedar’s numerous strengths to make the appropriate choice for your fencing project and budget.

Best Uses for Cedar Fencing

Cedar can be incorporated into just about any residential or commercial fencing application. Here are some of the most popular uses:

Privacy Fencing

Tall privacy fences are one of cedar’s most common and practical uses. Alternating overlapping boards provide seclusion from neighbors while allowing air circulation.

Cedar is lighter than redwood or pressure-treated pine yet still provides excellent noise dampening. Durable cedar retains its straight, vertical boards longer, preserving the fence’s opaque privacy screen.

For added visual interest, mix board orientations for a staggered look. Cap fence ends and posts with decorative cut trim using cedar’s workability.

Cedar’s natural color and texture lend an aesthetically pleasing, upscale look to privacy screening. Its longevity minimizes maintenance hassles for homeowners wanting maximum seclusion with minimum upkeep.

Picket Fencing

Picket or paling fences create an attractive boundary with a clean, distinctive profile. The thin vertical boards offer a semi-open barrier suitable for front yard ornamental fences.

Cedar’s stability resists the warping and checking that quickly distort cheaper wood types. Pickets retain their straight, uniform appearance longer. Durable heartwood tolerates ground contact for bottom rails.

For decorative appeal, taper the picket tops or adorn posts with pyramidal, spherical, or square finials. Combine pickets with lattice or decorative metal inserts. Keep a natural patina or restore the reddish tone annually with a cedar toner.

Picket fences evoke a charming, welcoming feel. Cedar’s texture and color suit various architectural styles, providing timeless curb appeal.

Post-and-Rail Fences

Post-and-rail fences use horizontal rails attached to vertical posts, often with smaller infill boards. This type restricts larger rural properties and creates a rustic, open look.

Cedar is lighter than oak for easy handling of long sections. Its strength handles spanning gaps between posts. Natural decay resistance ensures rails and posts last for decades in ground contact.

Vary the fence height and spacing of rail sections for visual interest and functions like animal control or security barriers. Mix cedar with wire mesh infill for see-through visibility.

Cedar post-and-rail fences make great boundaries for acreages. They provide security with a pleasing natural wood appearance.

Lattice Fences

Lattice wood fences or screens create semi-transparent partitions with an open, decorative look. The crisscross lattice pattern provides airflow and filtered views.

Cedar is well-suited to the thin dimensions and intricate assembly of lattice. Its stability minimizes warping or separation of the thin wood strips. Cedar also takes paint or stain well.

Use cedar lattice panels alone or combine with solid fence sections in contrasting heights and layouts. Try framing lattice with decorative cedar trim along the top, sides, or posts.

Cedar lattice adds stylistic interest anywhere you want airy barriers or decorative vertical accents. The woven look complements gardens and landscaping.

Board-on-Board Fences

Also called shadowbox fencing, alternating boards create overlapping gaps with a three-dimensional appearance. This style provides full privacy and sound dampening like a solid plank fence.

Cedar is the premier choice for board-on-board’s thin dimensions and extensive edges. Overlapping boards allow moisture to escape rather than being trapped. Cedar resists the warping and rot common with cheaper woods.

The striking visual texture makes cedar board-on-board fences a design statement. They bring dynamic curb appeal to home exteriors as a contemporary alternative to boring, flat plank fencing.

Log Fencing

Log fencing uses horizontally stacked logs, similar to a log cabin. This bold, natural style makes quite an impression for security, perimeter fencing, or retaining walls.

Cedar logs offer several advantages over full-round logs. Debarked cedar is lighter and easier to handle, though still substantial for a rugged look. Sawn sides give a more uniform, refined appearance that stacks neatly.

Cedar logs resist decay in outdoor applications with no bark to trap moisture. Preservative oils protect the core from fungal rot and insect damage. Proper sealing maximizes weather resistance.

Cedar’s workability allows for precision cutting of stack joints, grooves, or decorative ends. Log fence designs can range from simple post-and-rail to elaborate interlocking contours.

Selecting Quality Cedar for Fences

Picking the right cedar boards is key to a durable, long-lasting fence. Here’s what to look for when buying lumber:

Species – Western red cedar offers the best overall durability and pest resistance. Avoid lower-cost, less decay-resistant woods like incense cedar.
Grade – Select “all heartwood” grades like premium, superior heart, or Grade A for uniform durability since sapwood decays faster. The best value compromise is Grade B heartwood.
Knots – Avoid boards with excessive knots, which are weak points prone to cracking and moisture infiltration. Check knots are firmly intergrown with surrounding wood.
Moisture content – Look for kiln-dried boards with 10-15% moisture content for maximum stability. Higher moisture causes warping and splits.
Heartwood percentage – High amounts of heartwood (80%+) last longer. Sapwood will need more protection.
Color – Rich reddish-brown color indicates more natural oil content. Boards that are dull gray have lower decay resistance.
Millling – Precision-milled boards offer tighter joints and better appearance than rough-sawn lumber.

Cedar fence boards are commonly sold in 5/4×6, 1×4, 1×6, and 2×4 dimensions in 6 to 16 foot lengths. Purchase the highest quality within your budget for long-term durability.

Recommended Cedar Grades for Fencing

Here are some of the most widely available commercial grades of cedar for fencing and their characteristics:

Clear Heart/Premium – Highest quality, all heartwood, no knots. Excellent durability but expensive.
Grade A – Primarily clear heartwood, few small knots. Durable and attractive.
Architectural Grade – Mix of heartwood and sapwood, some knotting. Decent quality for the price.
Grade B – Up to 30% knotted sapwood, moderate durability, cost-effective.
Deck Common – Lower durability with higher sapwood content but budget-friendly.
Utility Grade – Mostly sapwood, used for temporary construction fencing.

Consult grading rules for the lumber association in your region. Buying higher grades reduces long-term maintenance, while lower grades offer savings upfront. Balance your budget with expected longevity.

Maintaining and Finishing Cedar Fences

Left untreated, cedar will weather to an elegant driftwood gray after several years of exposure. But fences can be kept closer to the wood’s rich reddish-brown tones with minimal maintenance:

Clean annually with a brush and mild detergent, then rinse well with a garden hose. Avoid high-pressure washing that damages the soft grain.
Apply a penetrating sealing oil every 1-2 years to replenish natural oils lost through weathering. Look for a “breathable” sealer that won’t trap moisture.
Spot treat any gray areas with a cedar toner or wood rejuvenator to restore color. Follow product instructions carefully.
Lightly sand to remove splinters, then brush away dust before re-applying finishes.
Make timely repairs to any cracked boards, loose fasteners, or gate hardware before small issues escalate.
Watch for pests/fungi like carpenter bees and be proactive if detected. Cedar resists most pests, but no wood is immune to dedicated insects.

For decorative color options, cedar fences can be stained or painted:

New fences must dry 4-6 weeks before coating to prevent moisture issues.
Use high-quality, exterior-rated products only.
Apply an oil-based primer if paint is the goal for best adhesion.
Expect to re-coat painted/opaque-stained fences every 4-5 years.
Semi-transparent stains last 2-3 years on cedar.

With proper installation, care, and maintenance, a cedar wood fence will be a lifetime addition that enhances your property’s aesthetics, functionality, and value.

Installing Cedar Fences

Installing cedar fencing has a few particular nuances versus other wood types:

Set posts deeper – Cedar is lightweight, so posts need deeper setting for stability. Set at least 2 feet into concrete for fences under 6 feet tall, or up to 3 feet deep for taller privacy fences.

Pre-drill planks – Cedar splits easily, so pre-drill screw and nail holes. For nails, the hole should be slightly narrower than the shank. Use stainless steel or hot-dipped galvanized fasteners.

Allow for expansion – Cedar will expand/contract with moisture changes. Allow 1/8-inch gaps between planks and where boards meet posts.

Use quality fasteners – Use stainless steel or ceramic-coated screws and nails for longevity. Electro-galvanized fasteners corrode too quickly in cedar.

Alternate growth rings – Orient boards so the dark/light wood grain alternates outward on both sides. This prevents cupping from moisture differences between growth rings.

Seal ends – Brush on a wood sealer or preservative to the cut ends of posts and rails to prevent moisture wicking. Avoid treating boards that weather openly.

Check local codes – Many areas have ordinances governing fence height, setbacks from property lines, and finished sides. Have underground utilities marked before digging post holes.

Consider wind load – Use closer post spacing and beefier framing for exposed, windy areas. Brace gate posts and spans exceeding 6 feet.

Slope top away from house – Prevent moisture seeping towards your home’s foundation by sloping the top fence board slightly downwards.

Use zinc-plated hardware – Hinges, latches, and handles withstand the elements better than plain steel.

Gate diagonal bracing is key – Prevent sagging by installing brace boards diagonally across gate frames.

Allow finish to penetrate – If staining, apply an initial flood coat to saturate new boards, then go back and evenly distribute.

With careful layout, high-quality materials, and proper construction, a DIY cedar fence will provide security and aesthetics for generations. Consider hiring a professional for added craftsmanship and more complex designs.

Cedar Fencing Costs

Cedar fencing is approximately 2-3 times more expensive than pressure-treated pine. However, it can easily last 3 times longer. Here are some estimated price ranges:

Cedar boards – $2-$4 per linear foot
Pine boards – $0.50-$1.50 per linear foot
Cedar privacy fence installed – $15-$30 per linear foot
Pine privacy fence installed – $10-$15 per linear foot
Cedar picket fence installed – $25-$60 per linear foot
Pine picket fence installed – $15-$30 per linear foot

So, while cedar fence installation has a higher initial investment, the total 10-30 year cost is comparable or lower than constant replacement of cheaper wood fences.

Costs vary based on height, style, accessibility, geographical location, and contractor rates. Get multiple bids for the best deal.

There are opportunities to save on a DIY cedar fence:

Shop sales at home stores for fencing materials. Buy off-the-shelf lengths to avoid custom cutting.
Use thinner boards if full privacy isn’t needed. For example, 1x4s instead of wider 5/4×6 boards.
Consider wood alternates like spruce or tamarack which have some natural durability and are cheaper than cedar.
If you have the DIY skills, save on labor by installing the fence yourself.
Stain or paint every 5-7 years instead of 2-3 to stretch the finish.
Use lower grades of cedar for hidden parts like framing. Use higher grades only for the visible boards.
Extend post spacing from standard 8 feet to 10 feet if fence height allows.

Installing cedar fencing is a rewarding project that adds beauty and functionality to outdoor living spaces. With proper planning, material selection, and installation, you can enjoy the benefits of cedar for years to come.

Comparison of Cedar vs. Other Popular Fencing Materials

Cedar has advantages and disadvantages compared to other common fencing materials:

Cedar vs. Pressure-Treated Pine

Cedar pros: 3x lifespan, stability, appearance, no chemicals
Pine pros: Lower upfront cost
Both are DIY-friendly

Cedar vs. Vinyl

Vinyl pros: No maintenance, total moisture resistance
Cedar pros: More attractive, authentic wood texture, recyclable
Vinyl is harder to install, cedar is easier for DIY

Cedar vs. Ornamental Iron/Steel

Metal pros: Very long lasting, highest security
Cedar pros: Natural appeal, better privacy, lower cost
Metal requires professional installation

Cedar vs. Composite Wood

Composite pros: Good durability, limited maintenance
Cedar pros: Lower cost, attractive real-wood appeal
Composite prone to fading/scratching over time

Cedar vs. Brick/Masonry

Masonry pros: Very permanent, highest security
Cedar pros: Easier DIY option, lower cost, added privacy
Masonry requires reinforced footers and professional skills

Cedar vs. Aluminum

Aluminum pros: Zero maintenance, long-lasting
Cedar pros: Softer, warmer appearance
Aluminum is prone to dents and scratches

Cedar vs. Wrought Iron

Wrought iron pros: Decorative, permanent, high security
Cedar pros: More affordable, practical for full privacy
Wrought iron strictly ornamental, not full fencing

Each fencing material has pros and cons. Assess your budget, design goals, and installation capabilities when deciding if cedar is the right choice for your specific needs and preferences.

Alternative Budget-Friendly Fencing Options

Cedar is premium fencing timber with an elevated price point. Here are some lower-cost wood alternatives offering “good enough” durability:

Spruce – Has some rot resistance if installed properly. Requires more maintenance than cedar.
Redwood – Lower resistance than cedar but cheaper on the West Coast where it grows.
Tamarack – Decent pest and rot resistance. Harder to find outside its native range.
Douglas Fir – Prone to cracking and warping but can survive over 10 years with maintenance.
Cypress – Fairly resistant especially with preservative treatments, but rare availability outside the Southeast US.
Oak – Strong and dense but requires extensive moisture protection to avoid rapid decay.
Bamboo – A renewable grass material, durable if sealed annually. Needs close vertical support spacing.
Recycled plastic lumber – Sturdy and stable though prone to expansion cracks over time.

Remember that these woods require much more sealing and replacement than cedar over an equal lifespan. But they can be cost-effective alternatives for the budget-conscious.

Combining madera and cedar boards is one way to save on fencing. Use cedar only for the exposed horizontal boards and rails. Use cheaper wood for interior framing and vertical posts set in the ground.

You can build a rustic, eclectic privacy fence from repurposed mixed boards if you can access free or low-cost salvaged lumber. This saves money but involves much more labor.

For DIYers on a tight budget, used, mismatched wood can create a functional backyard fence with casual charm. Just know maintenance will be ongoing, so access to free lumber is key to long-term saving money.

Tips for Maintaining Cedar Fencing

Follow these tips for keeping a cedar fence looking its best year after year:

Inspect regularly for signs of wear, insect damage, or loosening boards. Address issues before they escalate.
Wash occasionally with mild soap and water using a soft brush. Avoid high pressure washing.
Apply a penetrating sealer regularly to nourish wood and maintain the natural tone.
Replace cracked or warped boards as soon as possible to prevent bigger gaps.
Re-stain painted/stained fences every 2-3 years to keep the protective finish intact.
Trim back vegetation that retains moisture against boards or grows into the fence space.
Re-tamp or reinforce fence posts that become loose in the soil due to frost heaving.
Lubricate gate hinges/latches annually and keep hardware tightened to prevent sagging.
Consider installing a smart irrigation system to water shaded areas where mildew can grow on the boards.
If you live in a windy area, add diagonal bracing across sections to reinforce the framing from gusts.
Ensure sprinklers aren’t consistently soaking fence sections that can lead to accelerated weathering.
Keep the surrounding ground sloped away from the fence so water drains off the soil surface.

With periodic maintenance to protect the wood and strengthen the structure, a cedar fence will serve your landscape beautifully for decades.

Signs It’s Time to Replace a Cedar Fence

Even durable cedar fencing eventually reaches the end of its lifespan. Some signs your fence needs replacing:

Numerous boards are warped, cracked or have large splinters
Posts are leaning or loosening in the ground
Sections appear saggy or disconnected
Hardware is heavily rusted or non-functional
Significant graying and drying of wood despite maintenance
Evidence of substantial insect damage or fungal decay
Soil buildup preventing bottom boards from draining
Previous repairs and replaced pickets are now also failing
Gate won’t open or close properly due to frame distortion
Storm damage like broken posts, lifted panels, missing boards
Overall appearance is tired, shabby or detracting from home’s curb appeal

Replacing an entire fence can be costly. First make repairs to extend its life: replace damaged boards and posts, tighten hardware, improve drainage, apply wood preservative to decayed sections, etc.

But once the fence requires extensive repairs at major structural points, installing a new fence is usually more cost-effective.

Plan by budgeting for full replacement once your cedar fence passes the 15-20 year mark. A general lifespan is 25-30 years for a well-built cedar fence with proper maintenance.

If decay or storm damage forces replacement sooner, consider submitting an insurance claim, especially if due to a weather catastrophe. Most home policies cover fence replacement up to your coverage limits.

While expensive, replacing an aging cedar fence is a great chance to upgrade with a new improved design, better privacy, contemporary styles, or enhanced curb appeal. A new cedar fence boosts functionality, aesthetics and your home’s value.

Disposing and Recycling Old Cedar Fencing

Once you take down a dilapidated fence, don’t send cedar boards to the landfill. Here are some eco-friendly ways to dispose of and recycle cedar planks:

Break down into manageable pieces to give away as scrap lumber on Craigslist, Nextdoor or Facebook Marketplace. Handy homeowners may want it for projects.
Save usable boards to build garden beds, railings, planter boxes, benches, or a smaller secondary fence elsewhere.
Cut into firewood lengths to burn in a wood stove, fireplace, or outdoor firepit. Cedar has a wonderful aroma.
Chip scraps with a rented wood chipper and use as fragrant mulch or smoking chips for barbecuing.
Compost in a designated compost bin once chopped into small pieces if regulations in your area allow. May take longer to break down.
Donate to community gardens, schools, or youth programs like Boy Scouts for creative reuse in projects.
Look for recycling centers that accept clean wood scraps to re-process into new products. Avoid pieces with nails, screws, or treated wood.
Use as affordable garden bed edging by pounding partially buried boards into the ground.

Repurposing and recycling old fencing conserves natural resources and keeps cedar out of crowded landfills. With a little creativity, you can find new uses for salvaged cedar lumber around your property.

Key Takeaways on Cedar Fencing

Cedar has been a preferred fencing material for centuries thanks to its natural durability, beauty, and versatility. Key advantages include:

Long-lasting performance from natural decay and insect resistance
Low-maintenance needs with minimal required upkeep
Attractive appearance that enhances aesthetics and curb appeal
Strength, dimensional stability, and weather resistance
Easy to work with using common tools and basic carpentry skills
Suitability for a wide range of fence styles from privacy to picket designs
Good value from extended lifespan compared to cheaper wood fencing
Eco-friendly and recyclable with low embodied energy

No material is perfect for every setting. But cedar is one of the best fencing solutions for homeowners prioritizing longevity, low-maintenance, and aesthetics.

With proper installation, care, and upkeep, a cedar wood fence will beautifully demarcate your property for decades. Its natural elegance, practicality, and protective qualities make cedar fencing a trusted investment.