VS
Overall Winner: Western Red Cedar
Based on price, durability, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness
aluminum
Aluminum Decking
Price$15 – $30 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceNone
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
★ Winner
wood
Western Red Cedar
Price$5 – $10 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceMedium
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Aluminum Decking (10/10)
←
Western Red Cedar (7/10)
Aluminum Decking (6/10)
→
Western Red Cedar (9/10)
Aluminum Decking (7/10)
→
Western Red Cedar (9/10)
Aluminum Decking (4/10)
→
Western Red Cedar (8/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Aluminum Decking
$10,500
to $19,500
Western Red Cedar
$7,500
to $13,500
★ Better Value
Aluminum Decking
Pros
- Completely fireproof (ideal for fire-prone areas)
- Will never rot, warp, crack, or splinter
- 100% recyclable — eco-friendly lifecycle
- Zero maintenance required
- Cool to touch in direct sun
- Lightweight yet extremely strong
Cons
- High upfront cost
- Modern/industrial look — not for everyone
- Limited colour and style options
- Can dent from heavy impacts
- Fewer contractors experienced with aluminum
Western Red Cedar
Pros
- Naturally beautiful warm tones
- Naturally resistant to rot and insects
- No chemical treatment needed
- Lightweight and easy to install
- Aromatic — pleasant cedar scent
- Grown in BC — Canadian product
Cons
- More expensive than pressure-treated
- Still requires periodic sealing
- Can grey over time if left untreated
- Softer wood — dents more easily
- Supply fluctuations affect pricing
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Aluminum Decking if:
Commercial, waterfront, or fire-prone areas needing maximum durability.
Choose Western Red Cedar if:
Homeowners wanting natural beauty with better durability than pressure-treated.
