Heartwood, sapwood and grades
Cedar's decay resistance is concentrated in the darker heartwood. Lighter sapwood is less resistant. Grades with more heartwood and fewer knots cost more but last and look better.
Even with cedar decking, deck framing is normally pressure-treated lumber for structural durability where the wood stays damp or is close to the ground.
Keeping cedar's color
Left untreated, cedar weathers to a silver-gray. To keep its warm tone, clean it and apply a penetrating oil or semi-transparent stain with UV protection on a regular schedule.
Is cedar better than pressure-treated wood for decking?
Cedar looks better, is more stable and is pleasant to touch; treated pine costs less and resists dents better. Both need finishing to keep their color.
Many homeowners use cedar for the visible surface and railings while keeping treated lumber for the framing, getting cedar's appearance where it matters most.
What fasteners should be used with cedar?
Use stainless steel or coated fasteners designed for cedar; the wood's natural extractives can stain around ordinary steel fasteners. Pre-drill near board ends to prevent splitting.
How do you maintain a cedar deck?
- Clean annually with a cedar-safe cleaner.
- Brighten to restore color if it has grayed.
- Apply a penetrating oil or semi-transparent stain with UV protection.
- Avoid harsh pressure washing, which damages soft cedar fibers.
Is cedar a good choice for deck railings?
Cedar railings are light, easy to work and look warm against a cedar or composite floor. Because railings are vertical and shed water, they often hold a finish longer than the deck surface. Pair cedar rails with structurally anchored posts — cedar's softness makes proper blocking and through-bolting even more important — and consider an aluminum or cable infill to keep views open.
Which cedar grade should you choose?
Knotty grades give a rustic look at lower cost; clear grades are nearly knot-free and more expensive. Look for boards with plenty of heartwood for better decay resistance.
How does cedar decking differ across the states we serve?
Cedar's natural resistance is tested most in wet climates. The figure varies most between Washington (95) and Minnesota (60).
| State | Wet days / yr (median) | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 80 | Frequent rain: flashing, drainage and airflow protect cedar decking |
| Illinois | 74 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for cedar decking |
| Kansas | 60 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for cedar decking |
| Maryland | 81 | Frequent rain: flashing, drainage and airflow protect cedar decking |
| Massachusetts | 82 | Frequent rain: flashing, drainage and airflow protect cedar decking |
| Minnesota | 60 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for cedar decking |
| North Carolina | 75 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for cedar decking |
| Pennsylvania | 79 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for cedar decking |
| Tennessee | 84 | Frequent rain: flashing, drainage and airflow protect cedar decking |
| Virginia | 77 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for cedar decking |
| Washington | 95 | Frequent rain: flashing, drainage and airflow protect cedar decking |
Figures are medians across our covered communities in each state, from NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals and the Census Bureau's 2020–2024 American Community Survey. Each state and community page explains local conditions in more detail.