Cedar Decking Vs. Composite Decking
So you want to build a deck or perhaps a picnic table or Adirondack chairs, but you don’t whether to choose a composite material or to use cedar for your exterior project. There are pro and cons to each choice. Nothing can replace the visual appeal of natural wood, but a lot of maintenance is required to maintain that look. Composites can require less maintenance, but they are not always as maintenance free as some would lead you to believe. Does this Spark an idea?
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Characteristics of Cedar
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Beyond the appeal of a natural wood, cedar is widely used in decks and other exterior applications, as it is naturally resistant to damage caused by rain, direct sunlight, and termites. Chemicals naturally present in the wood protect against the harsh elements and add cedar’s longevity. Cedar is also lightweight and easy to work with, and is a favorite choice of decking materials among builders and carpenters. Cedar also has a distinct grain that adds to its aesthetic appeal. When left untreated, cedar fades to a soft gray. When treated with stain, the rich reddish hue of cedar can be preserved for an even more attractive result.
Characteristics of Composite
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Composite materials available today are made of recycled materials and are usually (but not always) an equal combination of plastic and wood fibers. The wood fibers may include actual wood, as well as such fillers as nutshells, flax, and rice hulls. Composites are available in a wide range of colors and some can even be stained or treated (though this negates the low-maintenance appeal of this product). The longevity of composites varies among manufacturers.
One would be wise to research the many brands on the market as a growing number of consumers are expressing dissatisfaction with some brands, such as difficult to remove stains, crumbling, and little resistance to mold. In fact, many manufacturers have gone from proclaiming their composite materials as “no-maintenance” to “low-maintenance” precisely because of these claims. However, if you do your homework and talk to reputable builders or lumber suppliers, you may find a brand that meets your requirements.
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Pro of Composites
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The benefits of composites, among the better made brands, include: durability and low maintenance; ability to be painted and/or stained; resistance to warping, splitting, moisture, and insects; environmentally beneficial due to the use of recycled materials; cuts and handles like real wood.
Cons of Composites
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The drawbacks of composites, among many brands, include: not as strong as wood; cannot be refinished; stains can be difficult or impossible to remove; instances of failures are high; cannot be bleached (in order to remove stains) without voided warranty; popping of nails and screws, causing damage to the composite that cannot be repaired.
Pros of Cedar
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The benefits of cedar include: long-lasting product, especially if treated with stain or sealant; naturally resistant to insect damage; lower in cost than many other wood products; may be painted, stained and refinished.
Cons of Cedar
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The drawbacks of include: annual or bi-annual maintenance; may split, splinter or warp, especially if exposed to harsh elements.
Considerations
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The matter of deciding to use cedar or composites becomes an individual choice once the pros and cons are weighed to your specific needs. If visual appeal is not as important as low maintenance, you may want to research the various brands of composites available to find one that meets your expectations. If aesthetics are more important, you may want to consider the look of cedar.
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