Cedar Decking Wood Guide 2026
Cupressus spp.
Lightweight durable decking softwood with natural aromatic properties
Wood Appearance
Natural Grain
Finished Surface
Key Takeaways
- Density: 23 lbs/ft³
- Classification: Softwood
- Origin: United States
- Price: ~$6.5 per board foot
- Common uses include Decking, Railings, Pergolas
Quick Facts
Representative reference values — natural wood varies by growing region, moisture content and individual board.
Durability, Stability & Workability
Texture: Medium, even texture with straight grain.
Workability: Very easy to cut, shape, and fasten.
Fastening: Nails and screws well; pre-drilling generally not required.
Finishing: Excellent for staining or semi-transparent water repellents.
Color change: Weathers to a silvery grey without regular maintenance.
Insect resistance: Naturally resistant to rot and insect attack.
Ratings and published values are representative reference figures. Natural wood varies with growing region, moisture content and individual boards — treat them as guidance, not guarantees.
Common Sizes & Availability
Typical market availability for Cedar Decking. Lumberama is a sourcing marketplace — actual stock, widths and lengths vary by supplier. Request a quote to confirm what's available for your project.
| Thickness | Rough | Typical surfaced | Typical widths | Common lengths | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8/4 | 2" | 1-3/4" | Sold as standard 4, 6, and 8-inch widths. | Available in lengths ranging from 8 to 20 feet. | Request this size |
- 8/4rough 2"
- Surfaced
- 1-3/4"
- Widths
- Sold as standard 4, 6, and 8-inch widths.
- Lengths
- Available in lengths ranging from 8 to 20 feet.
Decking & exterior profiles
Eased-edge and tongue-and-groove profiles are standard.
Availability notes: Widely available at most lumber yards and home centers.
How lumber sizes are described
- Rough (4/4, 8/4…)
- Hardwood thickness in quarters of an inch as sawn, before surfacing. 4/4 = 1" rough.
- Surfaced (S2S/S4S)
- Thickness after planing. 4/4 typically finishes at 13/16" or 3/4".
- Nominal vs. actual
- Construction lumber is sold by nominal size; a 2x6 measures about 1-1/2" x 5-1/2".
- Random width / length
- Most hardwood is sold as it comes from the log — widths and lengths vary within a range rather than being fixed.
Color & Grain
Color: Reddish brown; pale sapwood
Grain: Straight; even texture
Common Uses
- Decking
- Railings
- Pergolas
- Outdoor structures
Key Characteristics
Also known as: Western Red Cedar;Port Orford Cedar
Availability: In Stock
Advantages
- Janka indentation hardness: 350 lbf
- Heartwood decay rating: Durable
- Sourced from United States
- Affordable pricing
Considerations
- Hardness does not establish decay resistance or structural design strength
Frequently Asked Questions
Alternatives to Consider
Species commonly specified for similar applications when Cedar Decking is unavailable or over budget.
Related Species
Alaska Yellow Cedar
Alaska Yellow Cedar is among the most durable softwoods in the world, with natural decay resistance
View speciesAromatic Red Cedar
Aromatic Red Cedar is beloved for its distinctive spicy fragrance and natural moth-repelling propert
View speciesAtlantic White Cedar
Atlantic White Cedar is a lightweight, aromatic softwood native to the swamps and bogs of the Easter
View speciesExplore More on Lumberama
Popular Applications
Comparisons
Calculators & Tools
Related Blog Posts
Heat Pump Guide: Types, Cost & How They Work
Heat and cool your home efficiently with one system.
Read articleAir Conditioning Guide: Types, Cost & Efficiency
Stay cool and save money on cooling.
Read articleWater Heater Guide: Types, Cost & Replacement
Choose the best water heater for your home.
Read article