Enhance Your Cedar Fence: Popular Upgrades for a Custom Look

Upgrading your cedar fence isn’t just about adding style—it’s also a smart way to boost durability, privacy, and long-term value. Whether you’re going with a horizontal or vertical cedar fence, there are plenty of simple yet impactful enhancements you can consider.

Below are some of the most popular cedar fence upgrades we offer at Rain City Fence. These are perfect for homeowners who want a more polished, customized look without breaking the bank.

Cedar Fence Upgrades for Both Horizontal and Vertical Styles

1) Upgrade from Tight Knot Cedar to Clear Cedar Pickets

Most fences are built using “tight knot cedar,” which features visible knots from the tree’s branches. For a cleaner, more refined appearance, consider “clear cedar pickets,” which are free of knots and give your fence a high-end, uniform look. While clear cedar can be significantly more expensive in other applications like siding or decking, the cost increase for fencing is relatively small—and well worth it for the aesthetic boost.

2) Choose a Custom Picket Pattern

The standard privacy fence style uses 1×6 pickets installed edge-to-edge with no intentional gaps. This creates a solid barrier, but natural cedar can still shrink slightly over time, forming small gaps.

If you’re open to a more decorative or airy look, or want sunlight to filter through for plants, consider a gapped picket pattern. Some popular patterns include:

1. 1×6 with ¾” gap
2. 1×4 with 1” gap
3. 1×6 and 1×2 alternating pattern with 3/4″ gap
4. 1×2 with ½” gap

Let your creativity lead here! Almost any pattern you can imagine is possible. See our design page for picket pattern options.

3) Choosing a larger Picket Thickness and Picket Width

While 1×6 rough-sawn pickets (approx. 9/16” to 5/8” thick) are the standard, there are other options for a sturdier or more stylized look:

1×2, 1×3, & 1×4 widths for a slimmer aesthetic.

5/4×4 and 5/4×6 pickets (full 1” thick) for added durability

These variations are ideal when you want a fence that stands out or offers enhanced longevity.

Horizontal (Modern) Cedar Fence Upgrades

1)  Add a Continuous Top Cap

Installing a top cap (made from 2×4, 2×6, or 5/4×6 cedar) gives your fence a crisp, finished look—especially on fences near patios or gathering areas. It also provides extra weather protection to the tops of posts and pickets, helping extend the fence’s lifespan.

Bonus: It makes a great place to rest a drink during backyard hangouts.

2) Add an Intermediate 2×2 Support

Horizontal cedar pickets can bow as they dry, especially in the Seattle climate. Adding a *vertical 2×2 mid-span* between posts helps keep pickets aligned, improving both the appearance and durability of your fence.

3) Slope the Fence Bottom to Match the Grade

Got a sloped yard? Rather than stepping the fence panels at the fence bottom, consider a *sloped bottom fence* that follows the terrain. This minimizes gaps and improves aesthetics—especially helpful if you have pets that might try to squeeze under uneven sections.

For steep slopes, we often add a 2×4 along the bottom for extra rigidity and support.

4) Add Pickets to Both Sides of the Fence

Want the same look on both sides of your fence? Add pickets to both sides for a symmetrical appearance that looks just as good from inside your yard as it does from your neighbor’s side. This also is a great sound proofing option. 

Vertical (Traditional) Cedar Fence Upgrades

1) Install a Midspan 2×4 Rail for Added Strength

If your dogs like to jump or lean on the fence, adding a horizontal 2×4 midway up the panels helps reinforce the structure and reduces long-term wear.

2) Add Dog-Eared Pickets for a Classic Touch

Dog-eared pickets have a traditional, gently angled top corner and are a timeless design choice—especially if you’re matching an older fence or prefer a more classic style like the Rambler or Estate series.

Ready to Customize Your Fence?

Upgrades like these can dramatically improve the look and function of your cedar fence—often for a relatively small increase in cost. If you’re planning a new fence or thinking about replacing an old one, we’d love to help you design something that fits your yard and your style.

Explore popular cedar fence upgrades including clear pickets, top caps, sloped bottoms, and more to boost your fence’s style, privacy, and durability.

Get a free estimate today or explore our fence services for more inspiration.