Redwood vs Cedar: Cost Comparison

When it comes to choosing between redwood and cedar for your outdoor projects, one question that often arises is: "Is redwood more expensive than cedar?" The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think, as it depends on various factors. Let's delve into the costs, benefits, and drawbacks of both woods to help you make an informed decision.

Before we compare the prices, it's essential to understand that both redwood and cedar are popular choices for outdoor applications due to their durability and resistance to rot and insects. However, they have distinct characteristics that may influence your decision.

Redwood: A Premium Choice

Redwood, scientifically known as Sequoia sempervirens, is renowned for its rich, warm color, straight grain, and fine texture. It's primarily sourced from the coastal regions of California and the Pacific Northwest. Redwood's natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture makes it an excellent choice for outdoor structures like decks, fences, and siding.

However, redwood's premium quality comes at a premium price. Redwood is typically more expensive than cedar due to its limited supply and high demand. The cost of redwood can vary depending on the grade, with clear all heart redwood being the most expensive. On average, redwood can cost anywhere from $5 to $15 per board foot, depending on the region and supplier.

Redwood Grades and Prices

Redwood is usually graded based on its knot size, grain pattern, and the amount of heartwood present. The grades, from highest to lowest quality, are Clear, Clear Heart, Heart, Common, and Select. Clear all heart redwood, being the most expensive, offers the best appearance and durability, while Select grade is the most affordable but may have more knots and a less uniform appearance.

Here's a rough breakdown of redwood prices per board foot, based on grade:

• Clear All Heart: $10 - $15
• Clear Heart: $8 - $12
• Heart: $6 - $10
• Common: $5 - $8
• Select: $4 - $7

Redwood's Longevity and Low Maintenance

Despite its higher upfront cost, redwood's longevity and low maintenance requirements can make it a cost-effective choice in the long run. Redwood's natural resistance to decay and insects means it requires minimal treatment and can last for decades with proper care. Additionally, redwood's rich color and straight grain pattern can enhance the curb appeal of your home, potentially increasing its resale value.

Moreover, redwood's ability to maintain its dimensional stability makes it an excellent choice for applications where warping, twisting, or cupping is a concern. This stability can help reduce maintenance costs over time, as you won't need to replace warped or twisted boards as frequently as you might with other woods.

Cedar: An Affordable Alternative

Cedar, specifically Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata), is another popular choice for outdoor applications due to its natural resistance to rot, decay, and insects. Cedar is sourced from the northern regions of the United States and Canada, making it more readily available and less expensive than redwood. Cedar's distinct aroma, which is caused by the presence of cedar oil, also helps repel insects naturally.

Cedar's affordability is one of its most significant advantages. On average, cedar costs between $3 to $7 per board foot, making it a more budget-friendly option than redwood. However, it's essential to note that the price of cedar can also vary depending on the grade, with clear heart cedar being the most expensive and select grade being the most affordable.

Cedar Grades and Prices

Cedar is typically graded based on its knot size, grain pattern, and the amount of heartwood present. The grades, from highest to lowest quality, are Clear Heart, Heart, Common, and Select. Clear heart cedar offers the best appearance and durability, while select grade is the most affordable but may have more knots and a less uniform appearance.

Here's a rough breakdown of cedar prices per board foot, based on grade:

• Clear Heart: $6 - $9
• Heart: $4 - $7
• Common: $3 - $5
• Select: $2 - $4

Cedar's Durability and Maintenance

Cedar's natural resistance to rot and insects makes it a durable choice for outdoor applications. However, it's not as dimensionally stable as redwood, which means it may warp, twist, or cup over time, especially in humid or high-heat environments. This can lead to increased maintenance costs, as you may need to replace boards more frequently than you would with redwood.

To maintain cedar's appearance and durability, it's essential to apply a sealant or stain soon after installation and reapply every few years. This can help protect cedar from UV damage, moisture, and insect attacks. While cedar's maintenance requirements may be higher than redwood's, its affordability can make it an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners.

In the end, the choice between redwood and cedar depends on your budget, the specific needs of your project, and your personal preferences. If longevity, low maintenance, and appearance are your top priorities, redwood may be the better investment. However, if affordability and durability are your primary concerns, cedar could be the more cost-effective choice. Ultimately, the best way to determine which wood is right for your project is to consult with a local lumber supplier or professional contractor who can provide guidance based on your specific needs and regional factors.