Choosing the right material for your new wood railing is difficult unless you understand the each variety’s durability, aesthetics, and upkeep. You want something that looks great and stands up to the elements without breaking your budget. The constant worry about rot, insect damage, and endless upkeep can turn an exciting project into a stressful one. You can have a beautiful, durable railing that adds to your home’s curb appeal and is easy to maintain with just a little know-how. This guide will help you decide between pressure-treated wood and cedar by giving you all the details about what you should know.
Durability and Lifespan
When it comes to longevity, both materials offer solid performance, but in different ways. Manufacturers infuse pressure-treated wood with chemical preservatives, making it highly resistant to rot and insects, which is ideal for damp climates. With proper maintenance, these railings can easily last over 20 years.
Cedar possesses natural oils and tannins that inherently protect it from decay and pests without chemical treatments. While slightly less dense than pressure-treated wood, it is dimensionally stable and less prone to warping. A maintained cedar railing can last 15 to 20 years, offering a reliable and natural alternative.
Appearance and Aesthetics
Your railing is a key visual element of your home, and the look of the wood is a major factor. Pressure-treated wood typically has a greenish or yellowish tint from its treatment process. While you can paint or stain them to match your desired look, the initial appearance is more functional than decorative.
Cedar has a natural beauty that has a warm, rich reddish-brown tone and a straight grain. It provides a high-end look right from the start. If left unstained, cedar weathers gracefully into an attractive silvery-gray patina that many homeowners appreciate.
Maintenance and Upkeep
All wood railing spindles require some level of maintenance to stay in top condition. You need to clean, seal, and stain pressure-treated wood regularly to prevent it from cracking, splitting, and weathering. This ongoing care maximizes its long lifespan.
Cedar wood railings don’t need quite as much maintenance, but they still benefit from a protective sealer to preserve their rich color and protect them from moisture. Since it’s naturally stable, you’ll spend less time worrying about warping. This makes it a great option if you prefer a lower-maintenance material that still offers lasting quality.
Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Ultimately, the best wood for your railing depends on your priorities. If your main concern is sticking to a tight budget while getting maximum protection against moisture and pests, pressure-treated wood is an excellent choice. If aesthetic appeal, a natural material, and less long-term maintenance are more important to you, the timeless beauty of cedar is hard to beat.
Armed with what you should know about pressure-treated wood and cedar, you can find the perfect material for your project. Explore Mr. Spindle’s wide selection of high-quality wood railing products or contact our team for expert advice.