Choosing between cedar and pressure-treated (PT) lumber is one of the biggest decisions you'll face when planning a deck, fence, or outdoor project in Regina. We've been through this deliberation thousands of times with our customers at The Ultimate Deck Shop. If you're searching for a breakdown of cedar grades, real pricing realities, and honest advice about when to choose cedar over PT, you're in the right place.
Why Western Red Cedar? The Beauty and Practicality
Western Red Cedar stands out for two big reasons: its captivating natural beauty and its proven resistance to rot and bugs. Unlike PT lumber, which gets its durability from chemical treatments, cedar is naturally equipped to survive the elements—making it an ideal choice for decks, railings, pergolas, and fences you'll actually want to look at year after year.
The color and grain pattern in cedar are unique, ranging from soft golds and ambers to richer reds and browns. Left untreated, cedar gracefully ages to a silver-grey patina. If you love the fresh look, regular sealing with a high-quality wood oil, like Cutek Extreme, helps retain that vibrancy. Either way, the beauty lasts decades with the right care.
Understanding Cedar Lumber Grades: What Actually Matters
The language of cedar grading can be confusing. At The Ultimate Deck Shop, we help our customers make sense of it by focusing on the two key grading systems: structural grades (for strength) and appearance grades (for looks).
Structural Grades: Trustworthy Strength
- No. 1 Structural (Select Structural): Best for heavy posts and beams where strength is crucial.
- No. 2 Structural: Reliable strength with a little more “character”—commonly used for joists and framing members.
If you're building a deck above 24 inches, using the right structural grade is required by Regina building code. We won’t let you take shortcuts here, because safety truly comes first.
Appearance Grades: It's All About Looks
- Clear (A or VG): Virtually knot-free and beautifully consistent, perfect for high-end decks and railings.
- C and Better Clear: The sweet spot—very clean, minimal knots, used for most visible deck boards.
- D and Better Clear: A little more rustic, great for arbor beams or less-visible trim.
- Knotty Grades: Knots and character—charming for rustic fences or pergolas where natural looks matter more than perfection.
Cedar Grade Comparison Table
| Grade | Application | Appearance | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clear / VG (A Grade) | Appearance | Flawless | High-end decking, visible rails |
| C and Better Clear | Appearance | Minimal knots | Standard decks, trims |
| D and Better Clear | Appearance | More natural character | Pergolas, landscaping |
| No. 1 Structural | Structural | Suitable for posts/beams | Frame, load bearing |
| Knotty | Mixed | Rustic, lots of character | Fences, rustic designs |
Cedar Lumber Pricing in Regina
Let's address the big question: what will cedar really cost in Regina? Cedar does cost more up front than pressure-treated lumber, but there are ways to approach your project for maximum value.
- Pressure-treated deck boards: Typical range is $2 to $4 per linear foot.
- Cedar "C and Better Clear" deck boards: Commonly $4 to $8 per linear foot, depending on length and thickness.
- Cedar 4x4 posts: No. 1 Structural, roughly $8 to $15 per linear foot.
- Cedar 6x6 appearance-grade posts: $15 to $25 per linear foot.
This usually adds several hundred dollars to a mid-sized deck project, but the long-term return (in both beauty and durability) is notable. For those who want a deck that is as much a feature as it is a function, many decide this upfront investment is well worth it.
Our Stock: Cedar Sizes, Profiles, and What Stands Out
One of the biggest advantages of sourcing from a specialty shop like ours is the reliable, consistent quality. We carry and can special-order many cedar products to fit your designs precisely:
We also stock rough-sawn profiles for authentic projects, and lengths up to 16 feet. Our knowledgeable team is always available for advice—"What grade do I need? Should I mix rough and S4S?"—so you end up with the right material the first time.
Cedar vs Pressure-Treated: What Sets Them Apart?
- Aesthetics: Cedar offers a warmth and natural look that PT lumber never matches. Cedar is ideal for decks and structures where looks matter.
- Longevity: With regular maintenance, cedar decks easily last 25–30 years. PT lumber often shows wear by the 15-year mark.
- Maintenance: You can let cedar weather naturally or seal it to retain color. While both need seasonal cleaning and periodic sealing, many find cedar more forgiving to maintain. For best practices on seasonal cleaning and care, see our deck maintenance guide.
- Environmental Impact: Cedar is a renewable resource. PT lumber is safe but uses chemicals, which some prefer to avoid.
- Cost Over Life: Although initial cost is higher for cedar, the long-term cost is often similar or lower due to reduced rebuilds and repairs.
When to Choose Cedar Over Pressure-Treated
- If your deck or fence is a visual highlight: Cedar's appearance is worth the cost for your main entertaining space, a front yard fence, or visible pergola.
- If you prefer lower maintenance: Properly sealed cedar resists splintering and splitting better than PT and is easier to refinish.
- If avoiding chemicals is a priority: Cedar is naturally rot-resistant and does not rely on preservatives.
- If you’re considering resale value: Cedar often increases curb appeal and buyer interest.
Pressure-treated still has its place, especially for hidden framing, ground contact, or large-scale jobs on a tight budget. Many customers use a "hybrid" approach: PT for framing, cedar for all visible surfaces—getting the best blend of value and beauty.
From Delivery to Deck: Protecting and Maintaining Your Cedar
One of the best ways to stretch the lifespan of cedar is to start protecting it the moment it's installed. For decks and fences in Regina, this means addressing two enemies: sun and water. Within the first three to six months after construction, apply a breathable, penetrating oil finish like Cutek Extreme. This both locks in cedar’s rich color and adds a flexible, water-repellent seal against our extreme prairie winters.
Routine maintenance: Sweep or wash off debris each spring and fall. Every 1–2 years, check for worn finish and spot-treat as needed. For deeper advice about what to use and how often (including tips for cleaning or winterizing), check out our deck maintenance resource page. You'll find detailed seasonal checklists there designed specifically for Regina’s freeze/thaw climate.
The Questions We Hear Most About Cedar in Regina
- Should I use S4S or rough-sawn for my project? S4S (smooth) is most popular for decks and visible structures. Rough-sawn suits rustic or traditional designs and can cost less.
- Can I use appearance-grade cedar for framing? No, always use structural grade for anything supporting weight—this is required by code and vital for safety.
- Is cedar suitable for ground contact? Cedar is better than many species but not bulletproof. For ground contact, some builders use PT for the frame and cedar for the visible components, or apply a high-quality sealant and ensure good drainage.
Final Thoughts: Should You Choose Cedar?
Western Red Cedar is a truly premium backyard building material—beautiful, durable, and a favorite of homeowners who want their space to stand out. While the initial price is higher, the long-term gains in appearance, usability, and resale value make it a smart investment for many Regina projects.
We'd love to help you figure out your ideal mix of price, performance, and design. Whether you want help choosing grades, estimating quantities, or getting delivery lined up, we're here to make things straightforward and hassle-free. And should you want to explore different decking trends or compare material choices, our guide to real wood vs composite wood can add valuable insights.
Ready to build or refresh your deck, fence, or outdoor structure in Regina? Come see us at The Ultimate Deck Shop—we stock a huge range of cedar grades and profiles, cut boards to custom lengths, and deliver direct to your door. No pressure, just practical advice and down-to-earth service.
For in-depth deck cleaning, sealing, or repairs, don't forget to bookmark our full deck maintenance resource page for hands-on how-tos and seasonal tips. Let’s make your project a standout—from lumber yard to finished backyard retreat.
