Cedar Decking
For quote some time cedar decks were going down in popularity, and not a lot of people were asking for them. However, this season has bucked that trend. We have been getting steady calls for cedar decking, and our wood supplier is barely able to meet their demand for cedar. This tells me that customers are looking to get a little bit more quality for their dollar. In terms of price, a cedar deck will be more than a basic pressure treated deck, and slightly less than a composite decking system.
Above are Photos of an Expansive Cedar Deck we just completed
Cedar is an appealing choice for a consumer for 2 reasons. Firstly, It has a really classic rustic look, that will set your backyard haven apart from all the same plain old decks in your neighborhood. Your neighbors will truly be jealous of the distinctive look you can only get with cedar. Secondly, in comparison to pressure treated wood, cedar is much easier to maintain. Generally cedar takes a stain better than PT pine, and the stain will last longer. Please note that you do have to purchase a special stain that is designed to be put on cedar. Also, and I cant stress this enough, please make sure that your contractor knows the proper way to order cedar, and that he is purchasing it from a reputable lumber supply source. Make sure you are given cedar that does not have a "wane". A wane is a defect in the wood that diminishes both structural integrity, and the overall aesthetics. The wane is caused when the cedar is cut from the edge of the log. This is not a proper option for decking.
If you have been listening to my advice and hired a qualified and insured contractor, then he will most assuredly know to take this step.
Cellular PVC Decking
Cellular PVC decking is essentially the Taj Mahal of decks. With brands like Azek, Veka Deck, Royal Decking, and Dekorators, the consumer has the pick of the litter when finding a brand to go with. I really cant talk enough about the fine quality of cellular PVC decking. This product carries the best warranties, that last for the longest periods. This material is also completely warrantied against mold growth. Yes, you read that right, a cellular PVC deck will not grow mold. The reason for this is that there are no organic materials in the deck boards for mold to cultivate. There are a few drawbacks to this product, however. The first one being that you really wont be able to get a natural look out of this product. It will always look manufactured.
Some Examples of Cellular PVC decking.
The other fact to consider is cost. On average a cell PVC deck will cost anywhere from 25-50% more than a typical composite deck. Of course you are getting the added warranties, but that stark price difference is certainly worth noting. In my case the only time I build a cellular PVC deck for someone is if they ask for it specifically, and have been made aware of all other options.
Well fans, I have covered for common types of decking. I hope you got some valuable info from these last 2 posts. I encourage you to post comments with any questions, and they will be answered very quickly.
Next week will be part 3......RAILINGS.
Until next time.......
shameless plug : Schuster Construction Custom Decks
We have been getting steady calls for cedar decking, and our wood supplier is barely able to meet their demand for cedar.
ReplyDeleteWe have been getting steady calls for cedar decking, and our wood supplier is barely able to meet their demand for cedar.
Cedar decking is starting to surpass traditional Pressure treated decking. These days everyone wants to go with maintenance free decking. However for the person who may not have the money to spend, the next best option is cedar.
DeleteYou get that classic look, and a deck that much easier to maintain.
Thankfully we have a lumber supplier that always has a steady supply of cedar. On top of that their cedar this year has been incredible, and every bath has had only good pieces.