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How To Pick The Right Wood Material Before Building A DIY Deck
By KATHY BATES
A deck can be expensive, so many homeowners opt to DIY instead. Your choice of wood can make or break the project, and according to Consumer Reports, red cedar is the best option.
Red cedar contains natural oils that protect it from the elements and make it resistant to insects, rot, and decay. As such, a deck made from this wood can last up to 20 years.
The lightweight, moisture-resistant wood is easy to cut, drill, carry, and stain. It also comes in a variety of grades, allowing you to choose the grain pattern that you prefer.
Although hardy, red cedar needs proper maintenance and should be restained every three years. Clean the wood, let it dry, then apply one to three coats of stain.
If cedar is too expensive for your budget, use pressure-treated wood instead. However, it will not last as long, it is more prone to splitting and contains chemicals.