Cedar decking is a popular choice for homeowners who want a natural, beautiful, and durable outdoor space. It offers a cozy, classic look and people recognize its inherent resistance to deterioration. If you’re considering a custom cedar deck, learn more about our deck installation services.
Cedar has many benefits, but it also has some downsides. These drawbacks may lead some homeowners to choose options like composite decking instead.
In this blog, we will explore the pros and cons of cedar decks. We will compare them to other options.
We will also highlight important factors to consider. These include maintenance costs, fastener issues, and performance in different conditions.
Pros of a Cedar Deck
1. Natural Beauty
People recognize cedar for its stunning natural beauty, with colors ranging from light amber to reddish-brown. When left untreated, it ages into a soft, silvery-gray that many people find charming. Cedar adds a natural beauty to your outdoor space. You can choose between a fresh look or a weathered style.
2. Durability and Strength
Cedar is a resilient wood, naturally resistant to rot, insects, and decay, thanks to the oils it contains. This makes it a solid choice for outdoor decks, particularly in areas with moisture or humidity. Its strength also makes it durable enough to withstand regular use.
3. Lightweight and Easy to Work With
Compared to hardwood decking options, cedar is lighter and easier to handle, which simplifies installation. This makes it a more cost-effective choice for those looking to build a deck themselves or keep installation costs lower.
4. Sustainability
Cedar is a renewable resource, often harvested from sustainably managed forests. For those concerned about the environment and seeking quality decking, cedar is an excellent choice.
5. Natural Aroma
Cedar has a pleasant, aromatic smell that many people find inviting. The scent adds to the experience of your outdoor space. Additionally, it repels insects such as mosquitoes, enhancing your outdoor experience significantly.
Cons of a Cedar Deck
1. Requires Ongoing Maintenance
While cedar is a relatively durable wood, it still requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. Over time, exposure to the sun and weather can cause the wood to fade or discolor.
To prevent this and preserve its original color, you’ll need to apply sealants or stains every 1-2 years. This ongoing maintenance can be expensive and take a lot of time. Because of this, composite decking is a better choice for people who want less upkeep.
2. Vulnerable to Scratching and Denting
Cedar is a softwood, which makes it more prone to surface damage from heavy foot traffic, furniture, or pets. Scratches, dents, and marks can accumulate over time, which can be frustrating for homeowners looking for a pristine appearance.
3. Not Suitable for Ground Contact
Cedar does not perform well when in direct contact with the ground. If the wood touches the soil, it can absorb moisture. This moisture can speed up the breakdown of the wood and cause rot.
For this reason, experts do not recommend using it in places where the deck touches the ground. This includes posts or footings that sit in the soil. This limitation can make your design harder. It may also require you to spend more on things like concrete footings, which raises installation costs.
4. Fastener Corrosion
Cedar’s natural acids can be tough on fasteners, especially galvanized steel. Over time, these acids can eat away at the fasteners that hold your deck together. This could weaken the deck’s structure.
For this reason, you should use stainless steel or specially coated fasteners to avoid corrosion. This increases the total cost of building a cedar deck. If you’re planning a new deck installation, our team ensures the use of high-quality, corrosion-resistant fasteners.
5. Cost Considerations
Cedar is more expensive than pressure-treated lumber, though it’s usually cheaper than hardwood alternatives like ipe. However, the cost doesn’t stop with the initial installation.
Cedar requires regular maintenance—like sealing, staining, and cleaning—which can add over time. Homeowners who want a low-maintenance deck alternative might choose composite decking. The ongoing costs of cedar maintenance can be high.
6. Mold and Mildew
Cedar is naturally resistant to rot. However, it can still develop mold or mildew. This holds especially true in humid areas or if someone does not maintain the deck well. Without regular cleaning and sealing, mold can develop, which requires additional maintenance to remove and treat.
7. Uneven Aging
Cedar’s tendency to age unevenly can be a concern for some homeowners. As it weathers, the color can fade at different rates depending on the exposure to the sun, rain, and elements. Shaded areas of the deck may gray faster than sun-exposed spots, which can create a patchy look unless you regularly seal the deck.
Why Many People Choose Composite Instead
The ongoing maintenance needs and performance problems with cedar are significant factors why many homeowners choose composite decking. Cedar can scratch easily, fasteners can corrode, and it does not handle ground contact well.
Manufacturers create composite decking from a mix of wood fibers and plastic. It needs almost no maintenance.
In contrast to cedar, it resists wear effectively. It also does not corrode with the elements. The design of the materials resists ground contact. This can be a significant advantage in some deck designs.
Composite may cost more at first, but it lasts a long time and needs little care. This may help you conserve both time and money. If you’re unsure which decking material is best for your needs, contact us for expert guidance.
Is Cedar Right for Your Deck?
Cedar offers natural beauty and durability, but it does come with its share of maintenance requirements and limitations. When thinking about this material, consider its weakness to ground contact.
It can also corrode galvanized fasteners. Additionally, there is a risk of mold and mildew growth. These are important factors to keep in mind.
If you appreciate cedar’s aesthetic and don’t mind putting in the work to maintain it, you can create a stunning deck. However, for those who prefer a hassle-free, long-lasting option, composite decking may be the better choice.
In the end, the choice depends on what you value most. Are you fond of cedar’s natural appearance? Or do you prefer the durability and easy care of composite materials?
No matter your choice, ensure it aligns with your budget. It should match your style and the upkeep you can handle. If you need professional guidance, Total Home Fence & Deck is here to help with your next deck project! should match your style and the upkeep you can handle.
Get a Free Estimate for Your Decking Project – Contact Us Today!
If you’re ready to move forward with your cedar decking project or just need more guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help make your dream deck a reality. Call us today at 913-378-0089 or fill out the form below, and a member of our team will contact you within 24-48 hours to discuss your project and provide a free quote. We look forward to working with you!