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Cedar vs Redwood: Which One to Choose for Your Fence or Decking?

Cedar vs Redwood
Table of Contents

When choosing the right type of wood for your fence or decking project, two options stand out: cedar and redwood. Both of these woods have pros and cons, and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. This article will explore the differences between cedar and redwood and help you make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

Redwood and Cedar: The Basics

Redwood is a type of softwood from the redwood trees in California. It is a popular choice for outdoor projects because it is naturally resistant to decay and insects. Redwood has a rich, reddish-brown color and a straight-grain pattern.

Conversely, Cedar is a type of softwood that comes from several different types of trees, including the western red cedar and the eastern white cedar. It is also naturally resistant to decay and insects, making it a popular choice for outdoor projects. Cedar has a lighter, yellowish-brown color and a more pronounced grain pattern than redwood.

Fence and Stain

When it comes to building a fence, both cedar and redwood are excellent choices. However, there are some differences to consider. Cedar is lighter and easier to work with than redwood, making it a popular choice for DIY projects. It also takes stain and paint well, allowing you to customize the color of your fence.

cedar and redwood

Redwood, on the other hand, is more durable than cedar and is less likely to rot or decay over time. It is also less prone to warping and cracking than cedar. However, redwood is more expensive than cedar, making it less popular for budget-conscious homeowners.

Cedar vs Redwood for Decking

When it comes to decking, both cedar and redwood are excellent choices. However, there are some differences to consider. Cedar is lighter and easier to work with than redwood, making it a popular choice for DIY projects. It is also less expensive than redwood, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

Redwood, on the other hand, is more durable than cedar and is less likely to rot or decay over time. It is also less prone to warping and cracking than cedar. Redwood has a higher natural oil content than cedar, making it more resistant to insect damage and decay.

Redwood Trees and Lumber

redwood

Redwood trees are primarily harvested in California, where they grow naturally. The lumber is then shipped to other parts of the country and the world. Redwood is a sustainable product, as new trees are planted to replace harvested ones.

Cedar trees are primarily harvested in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States and Canada. Cedar is also a sustainable product, as new trees are planted to replace harvested ones.

Durability and Rot

Both cedar and redwood are naturally resistant to decay and insects. However, redwood is generally more durable than cedar and is less prone to rot and decay over time. Redwood is also less prone to warping and cracking than cedar, making it a popular choice for outdoor projects.

Redwood Deck and Fence

Redwood is the way to go if you want a deck or fence that will last for many years. Redwood is durable, long-lasting wood that can withstand the elements and resist rot and decay. Redwood also has a beautiful, natural look that can enhance the appearance of any outdoor space.

Cedar Fence

Cedar is a good choice if you want a fence that will last for many years and don’t want to spend a lot of money. Cedar is a durable, long-lasting wood that can withstand the elements and resist rot and decay. Cedar also takes stain and paint well, allowing you to customize the colour of your fence. Cedar has a lighter colour than redwood and a more pronounced grain pattern, giving your fence a unique and rustic look.

Redwood vs Western Red Cedar

When choosing between redwood and western red cedar, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both kinds of wood are naturally resistant to decay and insects, making them popular for outdoor projects. However, redwood is generally more durable and resistant to rot and decay than western red cedar. Redwood is also more expensive than western red cedar, making it a less popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

western red wood

Red Cedar Comes from Canada

Red cedar is a type of cedar that comes primarily from Canada. It is a popular choice for outdoor projects because it is naturally resistant to decay and insects. Red cedar has a lighter, reddish-brown color and a straight grain pattern. It is also more affordable than redwood, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

Types of Wood

types of woods

Many different types of wood are available for outdoor projects, but cedar and redwood are two of the most popular choices. Other types of wood commonly used for outdoor projects include pine, spruce, and pressure-treated lumber. Pine and spruce are less expensive than cedar and redwood, but they are not as durable and may require more maintenance over time. Pressure-treated lumber is a popular choice for decking because it is treated with chemicals that make it resistant to decay and insects.

Final Thoughts: Which One to Choose?

Choosing between cedar and redwood ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. Redwood is the way to go if you want durable, long-lasting wood that will resist rot and decay. However, cedar is a good choice if you want a more affordable option that still has good durability and takes stain and paints well. It’s important to consider your specific project needs and do your research before making a decision.

In conclusion, both cedar and redwood are great options for outdoor projects such as decking and fencing. Cedar is a more affordable option that takes stain and paints well, while redwood is a more durable option that will resist rot and decay over time. Whether you choose cedar or redwood, make sure to choose a high-quality product and follow proper maintenance and care instructions to ensure your project lasts many years.

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Bruce has done several roof cleanings for me and the results always exceed my expectations. He’s saved me thousands of dollars on my investment properties by making old roofs look brand new. He cleaned my gutters and siding in just a few minutes in what would have taken me hours with a power washer. With just a simple rinse, his cleaning solution removed dirt and grime that a pressure washer couldn’t remove. He’s got an amazing product.

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Our roof and deck area look better than new and Bruce and Maria are responsible for this transformation. I am so pleased to have hired Sullivan Roof Cleaning. They were friendly, courteous, and experienced and delivered excellent results.

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Roof & Deck Cleaning-Ames, Iowa

Our roof and deck area look better than new and Bruce and Maria are responsible for this transformation. I am so pleased to have hired Sullivan Roof Cleaning. They were friendly, courteous, and experienced and delivered excellent results.

Marie McCuskey, Ames, Iowa

Roof Cleaning-Pleasant Hill, Iowa

I was skeptical of this when my wife suggested it. I told her roofs were suppose to do this after time. I went to Menards to purchase a product and tried it in a small area ( no results) we went ahead and had it done and our roof looks like the day we had it installed. This is the best money we have spent to keep the house looking like the day we built it. GREAT JOB!!! I would recommend this to anyone.

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Exterior Cleaning Roof & Siding, Johnson, Iowa

Amazing! I had the roof, siding and soffit cleaned on my 14 year old home. I can’t believe the difference it made! It looks new again! Sullivan was great to work with. There was absolutely no trace they had been there, other than the clean house and roof! I am very pleased. I will refer my friends and family to Sullivan Roof Cleaning!

Jen Goemann, Johnson, Iowa

Siding and Deck Cleaning, Johnson, Iowa

I found Bruce and Maria via their Your Tube video demonstrating their approach to cleaning the “green” stuff growing on the north and east sides of my home. I recommend watching it, it’s exactly who they are and what they do.

My house, deck and patio look brand new! I wish I had taken before pictures. The improvement is dramatic.

They arrived as scheduled, worked efficiently and with respect for my property. The work was completed for exactly the bid they provided when they visited my home to provide a free quote. I wish all contractors were so reliable and transparent. I am a very satisfied customer.

Annette DeFrancisco, Johnson, Iowa

Cleaning Product Works-Des Moines

Bruce has done several roof cleanings for me and the results always exceed my expectations. He’s saved me thousands of dollars on my investment properties by making old roofs look brand new. He cleaned my gutters and siding in just a few minutes in what would have taken me hours with a power washer. With just a simple rinse, his cleaning solution removed dirt and grime that a pressure washer couldn’t remove. He’s got an amazing product.

 

Adam Lewis, Des Moines

Roof & Deck Cleaning-Ames, Iowa

Our roof and deck area look better than new and Bruce and Maria are responsible for this transformation. I am so pleased to have hired Sullivan Roof Cleaning. They were friendly, courteous, and experienced and delivered excellent results.

Marie McCuskey, Ames, Iowa

Roof & Deck Cleaning-Ames, Iowa

Our roof and deck area look better than new and Bruce and Maria are responsible for this transformation. I am so pleased to have hired Sullivan Roof Cleaning. They were friendly, courteous, and experienced and delivered excellent results.

Marie McCuskey, Ames, Iowa

Roof Cleaning-Pleasant Hill, Iowa

I was skeptical of this when my wife suggested it. I told her roofs were suppose to do this after time. I went to Menards to purchase a product and tried it in a small area ( no results) we went ahead and had it done and our roof looks like the day we had it installed. This is the best money we have spent to keep the house looking like the day we built it. GREAT JOB!!! I would recommend this to anyone.

Jeff Backous, Pleasant Hill, Iowa

Deck Cleaning-Granger, Iowa

You did an awesome job on my daughter’s log home, deck, railing, swing and chairs on the deck. They are totally impressed. My roof looks great, as well as, the stucco on front of my house. I appreciated your professionalism regarding communication and being where you said you would be at the time agreed upon.

Joan Clary, Granger, IA 09/15/2015

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