Both look great – but only one won’t flinch when the forecast hits 104°. Cedar vs composite decking-because one fades, the other fights back.
Central Texas Weather Plays Rough
Between the heat, humidity, hail, and sudden cold snaps, Texas isn’t exactly gentle on decks. So if you’re planning to build or replace yours, picking the right material isn’t just about looks – it’s about longevity, maintenance, and how many Saturdays you want to spend sealing things.
Let’s break down the pros, cons, and real-world performance of cedar and composite so you can make the best call for your backyard.
🌲Cedar: Natural, Classic, and Warm
Why people love it: Cedar offers a rich, timeless look with natural variation and a softness underfoot you just can’t fake.
✅ Pros:
- Naturally resistant to rot and insects
- Cool to the touch, even in sun
- Easier to cut, drill, and customize
- Takes stains beautifully (want gray? want redwood? done.)
- Fits with almost any architectural style
❌ Cons:
- Requires re-staining or sealing every 1–2 years
- Fades faster in direct sun
- Not ideal for full-shade areas with high moisture properly maintained
- Not ideal for full-shade areas with high moisture
Composite: Low-Maintenance, Long-Lasting
Why people love it: Composite decking is made from a mix of recycled wood fibers and plastic, designed to last through anything Texas throws at it.
✅ Pros:
- Virtually maintenance-free – no sanding, staining, or sealing
- Often comes with 25–50 year warrantiesand rotting
- Often comes with 25–50 year warranties
- Modern color and texture options that mimic real wood
- Great for shaded or high-moisture areas
❌ Cons:
- Higher upfront material cost
- Heavier and trickier to install for DIYersshade where possible)
- Heavier and trickier to install for DIYers
- Not quite the same feel as real wood (but many won’t notice)
What’s Right for You?
Here’s the short version:
You Want…Go With…For a budget-friendly classic look, cedar delivers natural warmth and timeless character without breaking the bank. If you’d rather avoid regular upkeep, composite is the better choice since it only needs the occasional cleaning instead of staining or sealing. When barefoot comfort matters, cedar stays cooler under the Texas sun, making it ideal for relaxing summer afternoons. If long-term value and warranties are important, composite offers strong manufacturer protection and a longer lifespan. For homeowners who love the natural grain and feel of real wood, cedar provides authentic texture and organic charm, while composite stands out for its resistance to mold, fading, and mildew—perfect for those who want a clean, low-maintenance deck year after year.
📣 October Deck Special
Get $500 off any deck installation over $10,000 when you schedule your estimate before October 31st – be sure to mention this blog post when booking! 👉 Request your free estimate
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