VS
Overall Winner: Western Red Cedar
Based on price, durability, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness
★ Winner
wood
Western Red Cedar
Price$5 – $10 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceMedium
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
composite
Composite Decking
Price$8 – $18 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceLow
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Western Red Cedar (7/10)
→
Composite Decking (9/10)
Western Red Cedar (9/10)
←
Composite Decking (8/10)
Western Red Cedar (9/10)
←
Composite Decking (7/10)
Western Red Cedar (8/10)
←
Composite Decking (7/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Western Red Cedar
$7,500
to $13,500
★ Better Value
Composite Decking
$8,400
to $15,900
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
Composite Decking
Pros
- Virtually maintenance-free
- Won't rot, warp, crack, or splinter
- Resists fading and staining
- Made from recycled materials
- 25-50 year warranties common
- Consistent colour and finish
Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Can get hot in direct sun
- Doesn't feel exactly like real wood
- Limited repair options — replace whole boards
- Heavier than wood
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Western Red Cedar if:
Homeowners wanting natural beauty with better durability than pressure-treated.
Choose Composite Decking if:
Homeowners wanting low-maintenance with a natural wood look.
