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Ogly
Ogly asked in Home & GardenDecorating & Remodeling · 6 years ago

What are the pro's and cons of a cedar deck versus a composite or pressure treated deck?

We are contractor shopping for a deck. We've gotten some very different information from some contractors and what we've seen online. One contractor says that cedar is a great, low-maintenance option. Another said he hardly uses cedar anymore, that it tends to rot out, and pushed composite, or composite surfaced decking.

I thought the 2nd guy was just trying to upsell us on composite, but he also said he preferred pressure treated over cedar. This really had me a bit confused.

So does anyone have experience with cedar deck versus pressure treated, and is an upgrade to composite or vinyl worth the cost? We want to keep our costs reasonable, which is why we shied away from composite in the first place, but this contractor has me questioning that stance now.

Update:

Thanks for the good advice, everyone. Glad to get some knowledgeable responses!

Update 2:

I have two more questions related to the same topic, if anyone is still paying attention :)

We're looking at a 12x12 deck. We've been quoted a price of $4500-$5500 for cedar and $5500-$7000 for composite. Does this seem generally in the ballpark?

Also, do you need to stain the underside of a cedar deck?

4 Answers

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  • oil field trash
    Lv 7
    6 years ago
    Favorite Answer

    Cedar does have a limited life and will decay in time. Pressure treated pine will hold up much longer but needs regular upkeep to maintain its appearance and can split and leave split and have splinters.

    I have not made a deck from composite but I have made a gardening bench for my wife from it. It has held up really well but it does need more support because it can tend to sag other wise. If I were to build a deck today, I would use the composite.

    Source(s): Lifetime woodworker
  • FaScEs
    Lv 6
    6 years ago

    I'd go the composite as well, even though I'd rather the cedar just for the aroma. BTW cedar will last 30-40 years, I'd take that over the treated pine any day.

  • Jackrabbit Slim
    Lv 7
    6 years ago

    The composite costs more initially, but it will last longer and requires less maintenance. If you plan on staying in the house forever, get the composite. The newer pvc coated composite stuff looks much better than the older composite stuff too. I just did one with timbertech. It looked great. Uses concealed fasteners so you don't see screws everywhere.

  • duker918
    Lv 7
    6 years ago

    I will add one caution to the use of composite. Be aware that is can get very VERY hot in the sun.

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