VS
Overall Winner: Redwood
Based on price, durability, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness
★ Winner
wood
Redwood
Price$8 – $15 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceMedium
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
wood
Pressure-Treated Wood
Price$2 – $5 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceHigh
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Redwood (8/10)
←
Pressure-Treated Wood (5/10)
Redwood (10/10)
←
Pressure-Treated Wood (5/10)
Redwood (7/10)
←
Pressure-Treated Wood (4/10)
Redwood (7/10)
→
Pressure-Treated Wood (9/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Redwood
$8,400
to $15,000
★ Better Value
Pressure-Treated Wood
$6,600
to $12,000
Redwood
Pros
- Rich, warm natural colour
- Naturally resistant to decay
- Dimensionally stable — less warping
- Lightweight and workable
- Beautiful grain patterns
Cons
- Expensive in Canada (imported)
- Limited availability
- Still needs periodic sealing
- Softer than Ipê
- Not as common with Canadian contractors
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pros
- Most affordable decking material
- Widely available across Canada
- Easy to work with — any contractor can install
- Can be stained any colour
- Resistant to rot and insects (treated)
Cons
- Requires annual staining/sealing
- Warps, cracks, and splinters over time
- Chemical treatment concerns
- Colour fades without maintenance
- Shorter lifespan than alternatives
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Redwood if:
Premium natural wood decks with rich colour.
Choose Pressure-Treated Wood if:
Budget-conscious homeowners who don't mind regular maintenance.
