Redwood vs. Cedar Wood Decks
For homeowners that don’t mind the extra TLC that wood requires, natural wooden structures can bring a warm, organic feel to the home. Wooden siding, shutters, and decks are just a few of the options that can upgrade your home’s curb appeal and provide a welcoming feel for guests. Wooden decks are the most classic of the designs for an outdoor area, and their beauty can last a long time when maintained properly.
Because wood is organic, there is a diverse range of types that each come with their own strengths and weaknesses as building materials. The two wooden decking materials that are most common in homes are redwood lumber and cedar wood.
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Redwood Lumber
Redwood decking is one of the more expensive decking options, especially on the East Coast. However, the lumber from the redwood trees is highly stable and resistant to deterioration due to wet weather conditions. This natural resistance means that redwood is far less likely to warp and bend than other kinds of wood. The lumber is also naturally resistant to insect infestation without requiring harsh chemical pest control measures.
While redwood decks do have a naturally long life span, experts still recommend that homeowners apply a sealer upon the completion of the construction. It is also highly recommended that homeowners keep up with a regular reapplication of sealer over time to maximize the lifespan of the deck.
In addition to keeping the wood resistant to rot, water damage, weakening, and pests, sealant also helps the wood retain its beautiful signature red color. If the sealant is not included in the regular upkeep of a redwood deck, the wood will naturally lose its redness over time, eventually turning black and then silver-gray. This loss of color does not necessarily compromise the integrity of the deck, it will take away from one of the aesthetic benefits of choosing redwood. If you choose redwood for your material, make sure to discuss regular upkeep with your contractor to ensure your deck remains as perfect as the day it was installed.
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Cedar Wood
Another one of the most common wood decking materials is cedar. This type of wood is also popular due to its natural pest and water resistance. Cedar is also naturally resistant to rot and decay, which means that a cedar deck would not require as much intense maintenance as other types of wood. Cedar decks can last over fifteen years.
However, depending on the design of your deck, cedar wood may not be the best option. Cedar is often used for vertical structures, such as pergolas, since it is considered a soft wood. Some contractors do not recommend soft wood materials for the flooring of high-level or stilted structures. If you desire cedar to be involved in your designs, ask your contractor about how it can be best incorporated and maintained.
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Trust Advance Inc. To Design Your Wood Deck
Every homeowner has a vision for their dream home, and these dreams often include a wooden deck. If you’ve decided that wood is the right material for your outdoor space, do your research about the different types of wood available and what the maintenance and budget concerns will be for each.
Designing your dream deck opens the door to a lot of choices, so if you become overwhelmed, contact Advance Inc. to discuss how to bring your vision to life.