What is a cedar deck?

It's a durable wood that is naturally resistant to rot, decay and insect attacks, and resists moisture absorption, so it tends to last longer, needs less maintenance, and doesn't warp or split as easily. A cedar deck can last for 15-20 years or more, depending on maintenance and environment.

Is cedar decking expensive?

Cedar decking prices range from $4 to $9 per linear foot. The cost of a cedar wood deck will vary based on the type of cedar you choose, the size of your deck, and the terrain you're building over. Expect to pay $20 to $40 per square foot for labor in addition to materials if you hire a pro.

How do I know if my deck is cedar?

The grain is wide, dark and prominent. Western red cedar has a pink hue when fresh but dries to a dark brown over time. Its grain pattern is subdued compared to yellow pine.

What is better cedar or pressure-treated decking?

When it comes to comparing treated wood vs. cedar, pressure-treated wood is the sturdier and more weather-proof of the two. It's highly resistant to insect attack and rot, and special versions rated for “ground contact” can be buried in soil and will continue to shrug off decay for decades.

Which is better cedar or composite decking?

If you are looking for a decking material that is low-maintenance, eco-friendly, and resistant to fading and staining, composite decking may be the right choice for you. However, if you are looking for a more natural look, cedar decking may be a better option.

Why the Pros like Cedar Decks

How long will a cedar deck last?

It's a durable wood that is naturally resistant to rot, decay and insect attacks, and resists moisture absorption, so it tends to last longer, needs less maintenance, and doesn't warp or split as easily. A cedar deck can last for 15-20 years or more, depending on maintenance and environment.

Is cedar decking cheaper than Trex?

A redwood or cedar deck will cost between $25 and $30 per square foot. Composite decking is the most expensive at $30 to $45 per square foot, but this is a one-time investment. With composite, you won't need to purchase sealer or stain every year or two, which makes its price the final price.

What is the most durable outdoor deck?

Most Durable Deck Boards: PVC

PVC decking is also the top choice for long-lasting, durable deck boards. Much of this owes to PVC's water resistance. It's moisture-absorption that causes most of wood decking's durability issues: warping, splitting, cracking, mold, mildew, rot, and insect damage.

How do I keep my cedar deck from rotting?

Sealing your deck will keep it safe from water damage, rot, and insects. Stain, on the other hand, enhances the deck's beauty while offering UV protection. Every two to three years, you will want to reseal and stain your cedar deck. Some deck sealants include a stain so you can do both tasks with one product.

Which deck wood lasts the longest?

Ipe wood is the longest-lasting decking material thanks to its density. Your ipe wood deck could last up to 75 years. In comparison, pressure-treated wood may only last up to 15 years.

Why is my cedar deck rotting?

Moisture and pooling water on decks can lead to rot and decay. Because dry rot is a fungus, it can spread like a cancer throughout a deck. Dry rot is caused by microorganisms that eat the cellulose from the wood leaving it brittle.

What is the upkeep on a cedar deck?

Cedar decks require minimal upkeep. A simple cleaning to remove surface dirt once a year will go a long way to extending the service life of your deck. Soap and water will do in most cases, but if there are any signs of mildew you will have to use a diluted oxygen bleach solution.

Do I need to seal cedar decking?

Rot, premature aging, and warping can occur from the weather and elements when the boards aren't sealed. Finishing off your newly-installed cedar deck with a sealant or wood stain will help to prolong the life, beauty, and appeal of the deck for years to come.

Does cedar rot when wet?

Western Red Cedar is one of the world's most durable woods, as it has a natural resistance to moisture, decay and insect damage.

Should I stain my cedar deck?

If properly maintained, the wood can last decades. As a contractor and decking specialist, I've seen some cedar decking last more than 50 years. But the key to that longevity is maintenance. You need to stain it every one to three years to keep it looking its best.

Does cedar turn GREY outdoors?

When fully weathered, cedar takes on a light silvery-gray appearance. If you like the weather-beaten look of a seaside cottage or an old barn, cedar can develop that look all on its own. But one aspect of cedar's weathering process that doesn't appeal to some homeowners is that it turns gray unevenly and looks blotchy.

Is it OK to pressure wash a cedar deck?

Beware Pressure Washing Damage

If you have timber deck boards, a power washer's pressure may cause splintering and damage to the timber fibres. If the timber surface already has some splintering, pressure washing will only exacerbate the issue.

Does water damage cedar wood?

Some wood, including redwood, cedar and teak, contains varying degrees of natural wood preservatives. But water that soaks into any of these wood species will cause them to crack. The cracks start out as tiny checking cracks. Water entering the wood causes it to expand.

Should you stain or seal cedar?

Stain has less pigment and is more translucent than paint, which allows some of the wood's natural color and grain to show through. Cedar siding is ideal for staining because the natural fibers of the wood will absorb the stain, making it last much longer than if you were to paint it.

What is the lowest maintenance deck?

Composite Decking

It doesn't require any refinishing, sanding, or staining. So you get all the benefits of natural wood appearance, without the hassle of maintaining it. This is what makes composite decking the best low-maintenance deck material.

What decking is better than Trex?

AZEK contains no wood, and uses about 50% recycled material. AZEK boards are also significantly lighter than Trex boards and absorb less heat. AZEK Boards are also more expensive than Trex boards–especially in their value-priced offerings.

What type of deck is the cheapest?

Softwoods, such as pine and cedar, are the cheapest decking materials. Although exotic wood, composite, and PVC decks are pricey, they are more durable than softwood decks.

Does cedar deck get hot?

Compared to Hardwood and composite decking, it's generally a more affordable option but it still packs in plenty of features. While Ipe is the coolest option, Cedar decking is a close second as it maintains a temperature that is a few degrees cooler than Redwood when exposed to the sun.

What are the disadvantages of Trex decking?