The difference is the structure. FenceTrac uses a powder-coated steel frame that holds infill panels, while a traditional wood fence is built entirely of cedar pickets and rails on posts. FenceTrac trades a higher upfront cost for lower maintenance and a longer life. Empire Fence builds both for homeowners across Tulsa and northeast Oklahoma.
Here is how the two stack up side by side.
| Feature | FenceTrac | Traditional Wood |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Powder-coated steel frame and posts | Cedar pickets and rails, wood or steel posts |
| Maintenance | Low; frame never needs paint | Periodic staining |
| Lifespan | Longer; the frame does not rot | Good, longest on steel posts |
| Look | Clean and modern, with infill choices | Natural wood warmth |
| Upfront cost | Higher | Lower |
We have built both across northeast Oklahoma since 1955, and most qualifying new installations earn our Gold Seal Certificate of Excellence after a 31-point inspection.
Structure: Steel Frame vs Wood Posts
The core difference is what holds the fence up. FenceTrac uses a 14-gauge powder-coated steel frame on steel posts, with infill panels of cedar, composite, or UltraBlend Vinyl set into it. A traditional wood fence is all cedar, with Western Red Cedar pickets and Douglas Fir backrails on treated wood or steel posts. Because most wood fences fail at the post first, FenceTrac’s steel structure is its biggest advantage, the same reason we offer metal posts on wood fences.
Maintenance and Lifespan
A traditional cedar fence is beautiful but needs staining on a cycle to hold its color and slow weathering, and the part that wears first is the post. FenceTrac’s powder-coated frame never needs paint, and with composite or vinyl infill there is no staining at all, so it ranks among the lowest-maintenance and longest-lasting fences we build. Both stand up to Oklahoma weather when built right; FenceTrac just asks less of you over the years.
Cost and Which to Choose
A traditional wood fence costs less up front, which is part of why cedar is our most popular fence. FenceTrac costs more at install but saves on maintenance and lasts longer, so it can cost less over its life. Choose wood for natural warmth and the lower starting price; choose FenceTrac for a modern look and the least upkeep. See the full benefits of FenceTrac and its place in a modern look.
Related Questions
FenceTrac and wood questions from Tulsa homeowners.
Is FenceTrac worth the extra cost?
For homeowners who want low maintenance and a long life, often yes. The steel frame does not rot, the infill needs little upkeep, and the longer lifespan can offset the higher upfront cost over time.
Can FenceTrac look like a wood fence?
Yes. With cedar infill, FenceTrac gives you the look of real wood on a steel frame that will not sag or rot. Composite and vinyl infill offer cleaner, more modern faces.
Does a traditional wood fence last as long as FenceTrac?
A cedar fence on steel posts lasts a long time, but FenceTrac’s all-steel frame generally outlasts wood and needs less upkeep. See the longest lasting fence.
See Your Fence Before You Buy
Get an Instant Quote in minutes, or browse our Tulsa project gallery for fences we have built across northeast Oklahoma.