[header] How to preserve a cedar fence [title] Take a surface area measurement of your fence. [step] Use a tape measure to measure the length and height of your fence, then multiply these numbers together to get the surface of your fence. Measure the length of your fence and the height, and multiply these numbers together to get the surface area. 
[substeps] Multiply the surface area by 2 if you're treating both sides of the fence. [title] Buy an oil-based, semitransparent wood stain for a basic treatment.