If you’re planning an outdoor project, you want to use a wood that can withstand the elements. Pressure-treated lumber and cedar are two favorites. Both woods have characteristics that recommend them for outdoor construction, but they shine best in different applications. Here, Jaeger Lumber discusses both options to help you select the best lumber for your project.
Key Takeaways
- Pressure-treated lumber is treated with preservatives to repel pests and fungi. It is affordable and durable, but not always beautiful.
- Use pressure-treated lumber for deck frames, fence posts, and other structural components where long-term strength is more important than appearance.
- Cedar is a type of wood that naturally produces pest-repellent oils. It is beautiful and easy to stain, but not quite as durable as pressure-treated lumber.
- Use cedar for deck boards, railing, benches, trim, and other decorative applications where aesthetics are a priority.
What Is Pressure-Treated Lumber?
Pressure-treated lumber is a type of lumber that has been chemically treated to prevent pests. It starts with a piece of inexpensive wood, usually white pine. This wood is placed in an airtight cylinder. While pressurized, a preservative solution is added to the cylinder. The high pressure forces the preservatives deep into the wood, saturating it completely.
When shopping for pressure-treated wood, you may notice a tag on the end. This tag describes the amount of preservatives used in treatment:
- Ground-contact: The lumber contains more preservatives. It offers superior durability for structural components, such as posts, joists, and beams.
- Above-ground: The lumber contains a lower preservative concentration. It is a less expensive option for railings, trim, and areas with good drainage and airflow.
For the best results, make sure you check the tag and choose lumber that is treated for your application.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Pressure-Treated Lumber?
Pressure-treated wood is ideal when you’re looking for a budget-friendly material that stands up to challenging conditions. It offers great durability without a high price point, helping you complete a project that will last for years to come. Its benefits include:
- Superior durability
- Excellent pest resistance
- Low price point
- Wide availability
While pressure-treated lumber is budget-friendly and durable, it falls short in aesthetics. Most treated lumber uses inexpensive wood without the attractive color and grain of higher-end options. Treatment also gives it a slight greenish color that many find unappealing. For this reason, pressure-treated wood is best for structural applications where aesthetics aren’t a concern.
What Is Cedar?
While pressure-treated lumber is artificially infused with preservatives, cedar produces them naturally. This premier lumber type carries aromatic oils, such as cedrol and thujone, giving it a pleasant smell. These oils also repel wood-boring bugs, including ants, termites, and moths. In addition, cedar is very tightly grained. This feature slows moisture absorption, helping the wood resist rotting.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Cedar?
Cedar wood isn’t just durable; it’s also quite beautiful. The wood is a great choice wherever aesthetics are important, including decking, railings, arbors, and trim. It can also be sanded smooth for handrails and bench seats. Its other benefits include:
- Attractive grain
- Appealing color
- Natural pest resistance
- Ability to seal and stain
The beauty of cedar comes at a slight blow to longevity. Although cedar is naturally pest-resistant, it isn’t quite as effective as pressure-treated wood. This benefit also fades over time. In addition, cedar can crack or turn fuzzy if the wood isn’t maintained. The reduced durability makes cedar a poor choice for structural applications, especially ones that involve direct ground contact. Instead, use it in situations with good airflow where you don’t mind a little maintenance to preserve good aesthetics.
Shop for Outdoor Lumber Near You in NJ
Both pressure-treated lumber and cedar are great choices for outdoor construction. The key is to match the lumber to your application. If you aren’t certain which material to choose, speak with a staff member at Jaeger Lumber. We supply building materials and products near you in New Jersey. With extensive experience, we can help you plan a successful project. Contact us today to learn more.
Cedar vs. Pressure-Treated Lumber FAQs
Which lasts longer, cedar or pressure-treated lumber?
In general, pressure-treated lumber lasts longer in outdoor applications. Its preservative treatment gives it superior durability against pests, fungi, and more. However, cedar can still last for a long time, especially when used in an appropriate application and properly maintained.
Does cedar need to be sealed or stained?
New cedar does not need to be sealed or stained. Over time, however, regular applications are essential to keep the wood in good condition. Sealants and stains also prevent UV darkening to preserve the rich color of natural cedar.
Which material is better for deck boards?
Cedar is better for deck boards. Its superior aesthetics help you create a beautiful deck that boosts your curb appeal, and its pest-repellent oils can help to discourage mosquitoes.
Which material is better for fence posts?
Pressure-treated wood is better for fence posts. Ground-contact-treated lumber is treated with large quantities of preservatives to prevent rot and insects, giving it great longevity.