How long does cedar decking last?

Cedar decking typically lasts 15-20 years with regular maintenance, though the heartwood can last longer in dry climates.

Is pressure-treated wood safe?

Modern pressure-treated lumber uses ACQ or CA-B preservatives, which are considered safe for residential use. The older CCA treatment was phased out for residential applications.

Can I stain pressure-treated wood to look like cedar?

Yes, once pressure-treated wood has dried for a few months, it accepts stain well. Cedar-tone stains are a popular choice.

Pressure-treated wood is more prone to warping and twisting as it dries. Cedar is dimensionally more stable but can cup if not sealed properly.

Cedar vs Pressure-Treated Pine wood grain comparison

decking

Cedar vs Pressure-Treated Wood: Which Is Better for Your Deck? (2026)

Prepared by Lumberama's Wood Comparison Team

|Last updated June 2, 2026|Sources & methodology

Cedar and pressure-treated pine are the two most common choices for residential decking in North America. Cedar offers natural beauty and decay resistance without chemical treatment, while pressure-treated lumber provides solid performance at the lowest price point. Both have loyal followings among homeowners and builders.

Cedar

Pressure-Treated Pine

Key Takeaways

Cedar and pressure-treated pine are the two most common choices for residential decking in North America.
Cedar offers natural beauty and decay resistance without chemical treatment, while pressure-treated lumber provides solid performance at the lowest price point.
Both have loyal followings among homeowners and builders.
Cedar is the better choice for deck surfaces where appearance matters, while pressure-treated lumber is unbeatable for structural components and budget-conscious projects.
Choose cedar for a natural, chemical-free deck with beautiful warm tones — ideal for visible living spaces.

Property	Cedar	Pressure-Treated Pine
Hardness Janka	350	690
Density Lbft3	23	35
Price Range	$2.50-$4.50/lf	$1.25-$2.50/lf
Durability Class	Naturally durable	Treated for ground contact
Color	Warm reddish-brown	Greenish-brown when new

Cedar

Pros

Beautiful natural color and grain
Naturally resistant to rot and insects
No chemical treatment needed
Lightweight and easy to work with

Cons

Softer — more prone to dents and scratches
Higher material cost
Requires regular sealing for color retention

Pressure-Treated Pine

Pros

Lowest cost decking lumber option
Harder than cedar — better dent resistance
Widely available at every lumber yard
Long-lasting ground-contact protection

Cons

Chemical treatment raises environmental concerns
Can warp and check as it dries
Less attractive than natural wood options

Best Use Cases

Choose cedar for a natural, chemical-free deck with beautiful warm tones — ideal for visible living spaces. Choose pressure-treated for budget-friendly structural framing, ground-contact posts, and utility-focused builds.

Verdict

Cedar is the better choice for deck surfaces where appearance matters, while pressure-treated lumber is unbeatable for structural components and budget-conscious projects.