There are many wood species that can be used for outdoor decks, but not all offer the same benefits and maintenance requirements, and price and availability vary by region. As Bob Mion, of the California Redwood Association, points out, “In the Southeast you’ll find lots of Southern yellow pine; in the North Central Midwest, Western red cedar; in the California-Oregon-Washington region, redwood predominantly.” You can certainly use redwood for a deck on Cape Cod—if you pay to ship it there.
Now that you know that where you live and how much you can afford to spend will probably be the deciding factors, here are the most common natural-wood choices for deck building:
Best Types of Wood for a Deck
Cedar
Photo: padeckbuilder.com
Cedar resists moisture, rot, and insect infestation, and offers more durability than many other types of wood. This hardiness is due to the fact that cedarwood will actually change its moisture content to closely match the atmosphere. Moisture is what commonly causes wood to warp and crack, especially in colder climates during freeze-thaw cycles. Using cedar may cut down on maintenance issues that can come up over time and will often add years of life to a deck.
One thing I’ve noticed when working with cedar is its pleasant aroma—it’s subtle but adds a nice touch when you’re out on the deck enjoying a summer evening. It’s also worth mentioning that cedar’s natural oils make it less prone to splintering, which is a big plus if you’ve got kids or pets running around.
Redwood
Redwood, another premium deck wood, is easy to work with, naturally decay- and insect-resistant, and rugged enough to avoid warping, checking, and splitting. Because of its open-celled structure, redwood contains little to no pitch or resins, and maintains its natural beauty and structural integrity with easy maintenance. While redwood can be left to weather naturally, it absorbs and retains all types of finishes, making it a long-lasting wood deck choice.
A friend of mine built a redwood deck a few years back, and he swears by its ability to hold a stain. He went with a semi-transparent finish to show off the grain, and it still looks sharp after years of rain and sun. If you’re considering redwood, keep in mind that sourcing it sustainably is key—check for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) to ensure you’re not contributing to deforestation.
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Premium woods like red cedar and redwood offer comparable levels of durability and longevity, lasting an average of 20 years. Both woods are naturally resistant to shrinking and warping. The primary difference between the two woods is color: Redwoods range from light to dark red, while cedar hues run from light brown to salmon pink.
Douglas Fir
Photo: southernpinedecks.com
Douglas fir is not only beautiful but also very strong. It responds well to hand- and power-tool use and, properly treated, is decay-, mold-, and termite-resistant.
What I like about Douglas fir is its versatility. It’s got this tight grain that gives it a polished look, but it’s tough enough for structural components. If you’re in an area with heavy snowfall, Douglas fir holds up well under weight, which is something to think about when planning your deck’s frame. Just make sure it’s properly sealed, as untreated fir can be a bit more vulnerable to moisture than cedar or redwood.
Southern Yellow Pine
When pressure-treated, Southern yellow pine is durable, strong, and environmentally friendly. It’s worth noting that in 2003, when high toxicity was discovered in pressure-treated wood, new regulations were established. Manufacturers now treat wood with nontoxic chemicals that make these products safer as well as rot- and insect-repellant. Decking experts at The Home Depot state that “pressure-treated lumber provides greater strength and is less expensive than other deck materials. Use it to frame the structure, then choose another material for decking and railings.”
Southern yellow pine is a go-to for budget-conscious builders, but don’t let the lower price fool you—it’s a workhorse. I’ve seen it used in everything from sprawling multi-level decks to simple backyard platforms. One tip: if you’re using it for framing, pair it with a higher-end decking material like composite for a polished look without breaking the bank.
Wood Deck Costs
Initially, wood costs significantly less than either vinyl or composite, and if properly constructed and maintained, a wood deck will last for years. And unlike petroleum-based materials, wood is renewable if sustainably harvested.
Something to keep in mind is that while the upfront cost of wood is lower, you’ll want to factor in long-term maintenance expenses. A neighbor of mine went with a composite deck because he didn’t want the hassle of staining, but he paid nearly double what I did for my cedar deck. It’s a trade-off—wood saves you money upfront but asks for a bit more care down the road.
Wood Deck Maintenance Requirements
Wood does, however, require more maintenance than other materials. A couple of times each year, it should be rinsed off, and every three or four years, it should be repainted or finished with a stain. Cedar and redwood decking may be left to weather naturally, but to make it last longer, apply a clear preservative every few years. For information on how to stain a wood deck, click here.
Here’s a quick tip from my own experience: power washing your deck can be a game-changer, but go easy on the pressure setting. I learned the hard way that too much force can damage the wood’s surface, especially with softer woods like cedar. Also, if you’re in a humid area, check for mildew buildup under deck furniture—it can sneak up on you.
There are many wood species that can be used for outdoor decks, but not all offer the same benefits and maintenance requirements, and price and availability vary by region. Choosing the right wood for your deck comes down to balancing aesthetics, durability, and your willingness to maintain it. Whether you go with the rich tones of redwood, the adaptable cedar, the sturdy Douglas fir, or the budget-friendly Southern yellow pine, a well-built wood deck can transform your outdoor space for years to come.