How Does Trex Decking Compare to Cedar Decking?
Red Cedar decking is available in four grades established by the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association (WRCLA). The very best is Architect Clear, which has the most attractive appearance and the greatest durability, and is usually a custom order. Next is the Custom Clear, which has a good appearance and is generally used in fine woodwork. The Architect Knotty has a rustic look with few visible knots. The Custom Knotty is the hole-free, economic and durable decking that contractors generally use. Notice that the grades are based mostly on appearance; the durability across all four grades is consistently high. The reason for the greater durability of cedar compared to most other woods is the presence of two naturally occurring cedar preservatives in the fiber of the wood. One is phenolics and the other is thujaplicans; both are toxic to insects and fungi. Another reason for the durability is that cedar absorbs very little of the moisture that hastens rot and weakens resistance to UV rays.
