About Cedar Decks
Western Red Cedar represents the gold standard in natural wood decking, prized for its exceptional combination of beauty, workability, and inherent durability. Harvested primarily from the Pacific Northwest forests of British Columbia, Washington, and Oregon, this softwood species contains natural oils called thujaplicins that provide remarkable resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage without chemical treatment.
Cedar's cellular structure features a tight, straight grain with minimal knots in premium grades, creating a refined appearance that elevates any outdoor space. The heartwood displays rich reddish-brown tones that can be preserved with UV-blocking sealers or allowed to weather naturally to an attractive silver-gray patina. Unlike pressure-treated lumber, cedar remains dimensionally stable during temperature fluctuations, minimizing the warping, cupping, and checking common with other species in Minnesota's extreme climate variations.
Our cedar deck installations utilize premium-grade Western Red Cedar boards sourced from certified sustainable forestry operations. We specify clear or select grades for deck surfaces where appearance is paramount, with tighter knotty grades appropriate for structural components and hidden framing. Standard board profiles include 5/4x6 radius-edge decking and 2x6 flat-grain options, with custom milling available for unique design requirements. Hidden fastener systems preserve the clean aesthetic while allowing for natural wood movement.
