When planning a new deck, one of the first choices you’ll face is which material to use. For many homeowners in British Columbia, the debate usually comes down to two main options: pressure-treated wood or cedar. Both are widely used and offer distinct advantages, but the best choice depends on your goals, your budget, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do.
In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated wood is made from softwood, usually pine, infused with preservatives through a high-pressure process. These chemicals protect the wood against rot, insects, and moisture damage, making it a common pick in wet climates like the Lower Mainland.
Pros of Pressure-Treated Wood
- Lower cost: One of the most affordable decking options available.
- Rot and pest resistant: Treated to handle tough outdoor conditions.
- Readily available: Found in almost every lumberyard or home improvement store.
- Easy to work with: It cuts, drills, and installs like standard wood.
Drawbacks
- Chemical treatment: Though safer than it used to be, the treated lumber contains substances that may not appeal to every homeowner.
- Appearance: Greenish tint and uniform look may not be as attractive as natural cedar.
- Maintenance: Needs to be cleaned and sealed regularly to extend its life and improve appearance.
What Makes Cedar a Popular Decking Choice?
Cedar is a softwood known for its rich, warm tones and natural oils that resist decay and insects. In British Columbia, Western Red Cedar is especially popular for its local availability and eye-catching grain.
Advantages of Cedar
- Naturally beautiful: Has a warm, earthy look that pressure-treated wood can’t match.
- Inherent resistance: Offers natural protection against moisture and insects without added chemicals.
- Sustainable sourcing: Grown in local forests and harvested with eco-friendly practices.
- Cool underfoot: Cedar doesn’t absorb heat as much as composite or pressure-treated wood.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Higher cost: Expect to pay more upfront for cedar.
- Soft wood: Prone to scratches and dents, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Fading: Turns grey if not stained or oiled regularly.
- Ongoing care: Needs regular cleaning and treatment to preserve its colour and prevent checking or cracking.
Durability and Lifespan
Both cedar and pressure-treated wood can last 15 to 25 years with proper care. However, they age differently. Pressure-treated wood holds up longer if left unfinished but can warp or split if not sealed regularly. Cedar has great weather resistance but is softer and more likely to show wear.
If you’re committed to regular upkeep, cedar will look better longer. If you’re looking for something tougher and less demanding, pressure-treated wood might be the better fit.
Maintenance Requirements
Pressure-treated decks should be cleaned every year and sealed every two to three years. It’s also important to check for loose boards, nails, and other small issues that can worsen over time.
Cedar decks require similar care, but with extra attention to protecting the wood’s surface. To keep the vibrant colour, it needs to be stained or oiled at least once a year. Without this, it will weather to a silver-grey tone, something many homeowners don’t mind.
Whichever material you choose, deck care is essential in a wet climate like the Lower Mainland. Moisture, shade, and debris can quickly take a toll if ignored.
Visual Appeal
If the look of your deck is important, cedar is often the clear winner. Its natural colour and grain add instant warmth and character to any yard. That said, pressure-treated wood can also be stained to mimic the tones of cedar, giving you flexibility on a budget.
Some homeowners opt to use cedar for surfaces and railings, and pressure-treated lumber for the understructure, combining visual appeal with durability.
Environmental Considerations
Cedar is a natural, renewable resource. Sourced from responsibly managed forests in British Columbia, it’s an eco-friendly choice for those trying to reduce their environmental impact.
Modern pressure-treated wood is safer than older versions, which used more toxic chemicals. Today’s products are regulated and safer to handle, but they still involve additives that some prefer to avoid. Disposal of pressure-treated scraps must also follow local regulations.
Cost Comparison
Here’s a rough breakdown for budgeting:
| Material | Initial Cost (per sq. ft.) | Maintenance Costs | Lifespan |
| Pressure-Treated | $2.00–$4.00 | Low to moderate | 15–20 years |
| Cedar | $4.00–$7.00 | Moderate to high | 15–25 years |
Cedar costs more upfront, but for many, the appearance and feel of natural wood are worth it. Pressure-treated decks are easier on the wallet but may not provide the same visual charm.
Climate Suitability in the Lower Mainland
In British Columbia’s damp, coastal climate, deck material needs to stand up to rain, mildew, and rapid changes in weather. Pressure-treated wood holds up well in wet conditions and is a solid choice for shaded areas or homes near the coast.
Cedar performs well too, especially when properly maintained. Its natural oils help resist rot, but without regular upkeep, it can absorb water and lose structural integrity over time.
Choosing What’s Best for You
Here are a few quick tips to help guide your decision:
- Choose pressure-treated wood if:
- You’re working with a tighter budget.
- You prefer durability over appearance.
- You don’t mind staining or sealing every few years.
- You’re working with a tighter budget.
- Choose cedar if:
- You want a natural, premium look.
- You’re willing to commit to regular maintenance.
- You’re building a high-profile or frequently used space.
- You want a natural, premium look.
Need Professional Advice?
At All Hands on Deck, we help homeowners across the Lower Mainland choose the right materials based on budget, usage, and style. Whether you prefer the natural elegance of cedar or the rugged reliability of pressure-treated lumber, we build decks that last—and that you’ll love to use.
Check out our project gallery for real examples of both types of decks in local homes.
Have questions or ready to start building? Contact us today to book your consultation. Let’s create the perfect deck for your home.
Recent Comments