Western Red Cedar 5.5" x 12'
Western red cedar decking in 12-foot lengths for medium to large deck projects. The longer boards provide fewer joints and a cleaner appearance while maintaining all the natural benefits of cedar including its aromatic scent and natural decay resistance.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Fewer joints for cleaner look
- Natural decay resistance
- Pleasant cedar aroma
- Lightweight for its size
- Takes stain beautifully
Considerations
- Premium pricing for longer lengths
- Requires UV protection to maintain color
- Not as hard as tropical hardwoods
- Can be hard to source in some areas
- Knots may loosen over time in lower grades
Cost Estimates by Deck Size
The table below shows pre-computed material costs for five standard deck sizes using Western Red Cedar 5.5" x 12'. All estimates include structural framing (joists, beams, posts), concrete footings, fasteners, hardware, railing on three sides, and one set of stairs. The board cost column shows the cost of decking boards alone, while the total includes all materials needed for a complete deck.
| Deck Size | Area | Boards | Board Cost | Total Materials |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10' x 12' Deck | 120 sq ft | 24 | $1,296 | $4,197 |
| 12' x 16' Deck | 192 sq ft | 38 | $2,052 | $5,475 |
| 14' x 20' Deck | 280 sq ft | 55 | $2,970 | $8,081 |
| 16' x 24' Deck | 384 sq ft | 76 | $4,104 | $9,764 |
| 20' x 20' Deck | 400 sq ft | 79 | $4,266 | $10,633 |
Material Comparison for a 12' x 16' Deck
How does Western Red Cedar 5.5" x 12' compare to other decking materials? The following table shows total material costs for a standard 12' x 16' deck (192 sq ft) across multiple decking options. This comparison includes identical framing and hardware for each option; only the surface decking boards differ.
| Decking Material | Price/LF | Board Cost | Total Materials |
|---|---|---|---|
| Western Red Cedar 5.5" x 12' | $5/lf | $2,052 | $5,475 |
| Pressure-Treated Pine 5.5" x 12' | $2/lf | $912 | $4,335 |
| Composite Decking 5.5" x 12' | $5/lf | $2,052 | $5,475 |
| Redwood Decking 5.5" x 12' | $8/lf | $3,648 | $7,071 |
| Ipe Hardwood 5.5" x 12' | $9/lf | $4,104 | $7,527 |
| PVC Decking 5.5" x 12' | $6/lf | $2,736 | $6,159 |
Maintenance and Lifespan
Expected lifespan: 20-25 years with proper maintenance. The actual service life depends on your climate zone, sun exposure, proximity to water, and how diligently maintenance is performed. Decks in the Pacific Northwest that receive heavy rainfall will weather differently than decks in the arid Southwest, and maintenance schedules should be adjusted accordingly.
Maintenance requirements: Annual cleaning and UV-protective sealer application. Cedar will weather to a silver-gray patina if left untreated, which some homeowners prefer. To maintain the original reddish color, apply a semi-transparent stain with UV inhibitors every 1-2 years.
Estimated annual maintenance cost: $100-250 per year (sealer and cleaning supplies). Over a 20-year period, these annual costs accumulate and should be factored into your total cost of ownership calculation. A material with a higher purchase price but lower maintenance may actually cost less over the deck's full lifespan.
Proper installation is the single most important factor in deck longevity regardless of material choice. Ensure adequate ventilation beneath the deck surface (minimum 18 inches of clearance for ground-level decks), proper drainage away from the structure, and correct fastener selection for the specific decking material. Using the wrong fastener type or spacing can void manufacturer warranties and lead to premature board failure.
Installation Tips for Western Red Cedar
Western Red Cedar decking benefits from pre-drilling near board ends to prevent splitting, particularly within 2 inches of any edge. Use stainless steel or coated deck screws compatible with the specific wood species. Allow boards to acclimatize to your local humidity for at least one week before installation by stacking them flat with spacers in a covered area. Apply a UV-protective penetrating sealer or oil within 30 days of installation to preserve the natural color. Leave appropriate drainage gaps between boards (typically 1/8 inch) and expansion gaps at fixed structures (1/4 inch).
Other Western Red Cedar Options
Looking for a different size or configuration in western red cedar decking? The following options are available in the same material:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Western Red Cedar 5.5" x 12' cost for a 12x16 deck?
Using Western Red Cedar 5.5" x 12' for a 12' x 16' deck (192 sq ft), the total material cost including framing, hardware, railing, and stairs is approximately $5,475. The decking boards alone account for $2,052 of that total. Adding professional installation at $25/sq ft would bring the complete project cost to approximately $10,275.
How long does western red cedar decking last?
Western Red Cedar decking typically lasts 20-25 years with proper maintenance. Annual cleaning and UV-protective sealer application. Cedar will weather to a silver-gray patina if left untreated, which some homeowners prefer. Annual maintenance costs are estimated at $100-250 per year (sealer and cleaning supplies). The actual lifespan depends on your climate, the quality of installation, and how consistently maintenance is performed.
Is western red cedar a good choice for decking?
Western Red Cedar is a beautiful natural wood option with inherent rot resistance and distinctive color. Key advantages include fewer joints for cleaner look, natural decay resistance, pleasant cedar aroma. The main considerations are premium pricing for longer lengths and requires uv protection to maintain color. Your decision should factor in both upfront cost and long-term maintenance requirements.