Cedar
Cedar is another popular decking wood that shares many similarities with redwood. The most common type used for decks is Western Red Cedar. Like redwood, cedar contains natural oils and compounds that make it resistant to rot, moisture, and insect damage. It has an attractive appearance with colors ranging from amber to light brown and a distinctive pleasant aroma when freshly cut. Cedar is widely available in North America, especially in the West and Northwest, and is often used for decking, fencing, and outdoor furniture.
Pros: Natural resistance to the elements is a big plus – cedar does not readily absorb moisture and has inherent resistance to decay and termites. This means it can last a long time outdoors without rotting (as long as it has some basic maintenance). Cedar’s aesthetic appeal is another advantage: it has a warm, reddish-brown color (which can also silver out over time) and a more uniform, fine grain than pressure-treated wood. Many people love the smell of cedar and the classic look it gives to a deck or pergola. In hot weather, cedar tends to stay cooler underfoot compared to denser woods or composites, so it’s comfortable in sunny areas. It’s also lighter in weight and softer, making it easier to cut and work with than hardwoods. In terms of cost, cedar is often mid-range – more expensive than PT pine but usually cheaper than redwood in many markets, giving you a good balance of price vs. durability.
Cons: Cedar is a softer wood, so it can scratch or dent more easily than harder woods (you’ll notice wear in high-traffic areas over time). Like other natural wood decks, cedar requires regular maintenance to look its best – expect to stain or seal it every couple of years to maintain color and prevent splintering. If left untreated, cedar will gradually turn gray and can develop rough surface fibers (“fuzzing”) from sun and rain exposure. While it is rot-resistant, in very damp or humid climates it still needs sealing to prevent mold or mildew on the surface. Also, the quality of cedar can vary: clear, all-heart cedar boards (with no knots) are much more expensive, while more affordable cedar decking may have knots and some sapwood (which isn’t as durable). These variations affect both the look and longevity of a cedar deck.
Best for: Homeowners who want a natural wood deck with a warm, classic look and moderate resistance to the elements. Cedar is great for humid or rainy climates (it was a favorite in the Pacific Northwest for decks) because it naturally deals with moisture, though it still needs care. It also shines in hot climates since it stays cooler in the sun. Choose cedar if you appreciate its beauty and are prepared to do periodic maintenance – it offers a nice middle ground between pressure-treated lumber and more expensive woods like redwood or ipe.
