In recent years, the cost of wood has been on the rise, and cedar decking prices have fluctuated due to the introduction of new materials in the deck-building industry. Despite these changes, cedar remains one of the most popular choices for homeowners across the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. Cedar looks great, has excellent properties, and is still an affordable option for your deck-building project in Knoxville, TN.
For the latest information, NASDAQ offers a comprehensive guide on lumber prices that is constantly updated. Check out their guide here.
In this article, you’ll discover the cost of cedar decking in Tennessee for 2024.
Let’s get started!
Cedar Decking Prices
The price range for a cedar wood deck is usually between $5 to $10 per linear foot. Clear cedar decking, which is almost free of knots, tends to be more expensive, while knotty, northern white, and western red cedar are more affordable options.
Let’s look at some average costs.
We typically use 12-foot long 2×4 cedar deck boards that are premium knotty and have a smooth surface on one side. These cost around $35 each and work well for most deck sizes. They can also be customized to fit specific areas. Alternatively, we use 12-foot long 2×6 cedar deck boards that cost about $55 each. While using 2×6 boards requires fewer pieces, this can affect the appearance of the deck surface.
Note that this is a high-quality cedar premium knotty. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, it may come at the expense of quality and appearance. However, we can also provide a more budget-friendly cedar deck cost.
Cedar Posts Cost Averages
We recommend using steel or aluminum frames from Fortress Building Products for deck posts and frames, especially if budget is not a concern. These materials are extremely resilient and sturdy, ensuring your deck will last a lifetime.
However, pressure-treated wood remains a popular option.
For larger decks, we primarily use 6×6 posts to ensure safety. These posts cost about $250 for a 20′ length, making them our most expensive option. While 4×4 posts can work for smaller decks, they may bend and become unsafe on larger ones.
We pay around $60 for an 8-foot-long, ground-contact rated, Grade #1 pressure-treated 6×6 post. Keep in mind that the cost of posts increases with their length, so longer posts for elevated decks will be more expensive.
For a cedar deck frame, an 8-foot-long, 6×6 rough-sawn cedar post costs about $180.
Alternatives To Cedar Decking
- Composite decking is a superior option to cedar wood and other types of wood decking. It is a low-maintenance material that requires minimal attention over its lifespan - a pressure wash once every year.
- Although they share similar properties, PVC decking doesn't look as good as composite decking. This is especially true when viewed from a distance. Additionally, some types of composite decking can mimic natural wood's appearance, which is impossible with PVC decking.
- Mahogany, ipe, tigerwood, and teak are hardwood decking options that offer superior qualities compared to cedar. These types of decking are more durable, stronger, require minimal maintenance, and can give your deck a more luxurious appearance.
Cost Comparison Of Different Decking Materials
- Natural wood ($3.75 to $20+ per square foot) is durable and beautiful, but costs can run high.
- Pressure-treated lumber ($1.50 to $2.50 per square foot) is a popular and affordable wooden alternative.
- Composite decking ($4 to $10 per square foot) offers durability and attractiveness for minimum maintenance.
- PVC decking ($7 to 10 per square foot) stands up well over time, but the synthetic surface doesn’t look as natural.
- Aluminum decking ($7 to $10+ per square foot) boasts many advantages.
Conclusion
While the cedar decking costs for 2024 may seem higher than expected, this reflects the superior quality of the boards we use, designed to last over 30 years.
If you’re seeking a more budget-friendly option, our deck designers can help you explore all possibilities and find the best solution for your needs. Investing in high-quality decking now can save you time and money in the long run. Get in touch with us at (865) 801-4545 if you want to learn more about other decking options or if you’re determined to get a cedar deck project started!
At Riverview Decks, we offer professional deck-building services that get you the best product in the neighborhood. Whether you’re looking to get a cedar deck, a pressure-treated deck, or a high-quality and maintenance-free composite deck, we’ve got you covered!