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Cedar Decking
Cedar Decking. Photo Credit: Alpen Windows and Doors

What is Cedar Decking?

Cedar is a beautiful wood that naturally resists decay and insect infestation. Boards can be purchased in various colors and widths and can be stained, sanded, cut, and painted for just the right look.

Cedar is a natural, renewable decking option, but be sure to source only cedar that has been locally and sustainably harvested. Cedar decking requires yearly maintenance to seal the wood and protect it from the environment. Whenever possible, source reclaimed wood.

How Much Does Cedar Decking Cost?

Cedar decking runs approximately $4.16 - $9.24 per linear foot for materials only. Installation and labor vary based on your location and range between $20 to $40 per square foot.

redwood deck

What is Redwood Decking?

Everyone loves redwood for its deep, rich red tones. But because the best redwood for building comes only from old-growth redwood trees, supply is extremely limited. 

If you must have redwood, look for reclaimed or recycled options. Many old barns, buildings, barrels, and water tanks were built from redwood and, as they’re torn down and/or replaced, that wood becomes available for resale.

How Much Does Redwood Decking Cost?

Reclaimed redwood varies greatly in price. Those on the west coast where redwood trees grow will generally find recycled redwood in good condition for $4 – 7 per linear foot, while those in the east may see much higher quotes. This price does not include installation or labor, which will vary based on location.

What is Bamboo Decking?

Bamboo is a newer option in sustainable building solutions in North America but has been used in Asia for thousands of years. Bamboo is both hardwearing and easy to maintain but will rot in rainy climates without proper sealant. Bamboo is available in strand woven and unwoven, woven being your strongest choice for deck building. The big drawback to this type of decking is that it is typically procured from Asia, which gives it a much higher footprint than locally sourced wood.

How Much Does Bamboo Decking Cost?

Bamboo decking ranges from $6.25 to - 10.93 per square foot for material only. Product availability and labor costs will vary based on location.

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How Much Does Treated Lumber Decking Cost?

Treated lumber will cost you about $1.56 - 3.12 per square foot, for material only. This type of lumber is readily accessible at most lumber yards but installation and labor will vary based on your location.

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How Much Does Thermally Modified Wood Decking Cost?

Thermally modified wood will run you about $8 - $10 per square foot for the material. Thermally modified wood falls between the cost of pressure-treated decking and composite decking. Pricing may vary based on your location, as thermally modified wood decking is available directly from the manufacturer or specialty suppliers.

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How Much Does Vinyl Decking Cost?

The average cost of vinyl decking differs between manufacturers. It's important to learn about the product's manufacturing process, from a sustainability perspective, and the warranty. Most manufactures offer warranties between 10 and 15 years and cover uncommon issues such as craving or fading.

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How Much Does Composite Decking Cost?

Composite decking costs approximately $4 to $9 per square foot. Pricing and labor will vary based on your location, the type and quality of composite you select.

What is Aluminum Decking?

You’ve heard about using aluminum for siding and roofing, but did you know it could also be used for decking? Aluminum is an increasingly popular sustainable building material for its low cost and versatility and looks great in both modern and rustic applications. Aluminum decking materials are sold in interlocking pieces that, when put together, are watertight and require absolutely no coating or sealing. They can be bought or finished to look like wood and remain cool to the touch, even under direct sunlight.

How Much Does Aluminum Decking Cost?

Aluminum decking runs from $12 to $15 per square foot, with an average cost of $13 per square foot. The cost of aluminum decking and labor with vary based on your location.

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How Much Does Recycled Plastic Decking Cost?

Recycled plastic decking, or HDPE (high-Density Polyethylene Resin) can be purchased new from $2.16 to $8.92 per square foot. The availability and cost of installation will vary based on your location.

Building a Sustainable Deck or Patio

The options are endless in building outdoor entertaining spaces, but it makes the most sense to source sustainable materials to ground your feet as you transition from indoors to nature. 

Before starting your deck project, consider the local available options in sustainable building materials, starting with reclaimed and recycled options. You may just be surprised with what’s readily available!

Laura Bourland

Rise Writer

Expert. Practical. Sustainable.

Article by

Laura Bourland

Laura grew up in the California suburbs, far removed from environmentalism, but nature always has a way. She uprooted her life in 2015, moving to the countryside of Washington to live a more sustainable and simple life on 12 acres. She and her fiancee are learning on the job as they attempt everything from gardening and natural pest control to eco-friendly building and home improvement.

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