When it comes to choosing the perfect wood for your deck, the options can feel overwhelming. Cedar decking has long been a popular choice for homeowners, thanks to its natural beauty and resistance to decay. But as more people learn about the benefits of black locust decking, the comparison between the two becomes essential.
The Benefits of Cedar Decking
Cedar is known for its natural beauty, offering a warm, rustic look that enhances outdoor spaces. Here are some of its key advantages:
- Natural Resistance to Rot and Decay: Cedar contains natural oils and acids (like thujaplicins) that make it more resistant to rot, insects, and decay than many other softwoods. This has long been one of cedar’s top selling points.
- Lightweight and Easy to Work With: Cedar is a lightweight wood, making it easier to install. Its fine, straight grain means it’s less prone to warping and shrinking compared to cheaper wood species.
- Aromatic and Pleasant Scent: Many people love the smell of cedar, which can be a pleasant bonus for outdoor living spaces.
- Affordability: Cedar is often more affordable than exotic hardwoods like Ipe or Teak, making it an accessible option for many homeowners.
While cedar has a lot going for it, there are several limitations that should be considered.
Cedar's Drawbacks: Durability and UV Resistance
One of the major downsides to cedar is its relative softness. On the Janka hardness scale, which measures the hardness of wood, cedar scores quite low (around 350-400), meaning it is more prone to dents and scratches, especially in high-traffic areas.
UV resistance is another challenge. Cedar decking tends to fade quickly when exposed to sunlight, turning from its signature red-brown hue to a weathered gray unless regularly stained and sealed.
This is where black locust decking truly shines.
Why Black Locust Decking Outperforms Cedar
Black locust decking isn’t as widely known as cedar, but it’s quickly becoming recognized as a superior option in terms of durability, longevity, and overall value. Here’s why:
- Unmatched Longevity: Black locust is one of the most durable woods available in North America. Its natural rot and insect resistance far surpasses cedar. With proper maintenance, a black locust deck can last 50 years or more, even in harsh conditions. This longevity reduces the need for frequent repairs or replacements, saving homeowners money in the long run.
- Superior UV Resistance: Unlike cedar, black locust holds up well against the sun’s harsh UV rays. It maintains its natural color longer, and when it does weather, it fades into an attractive silver-gray rather than a dull, uneven color. For homeowners looking for low-maintenance wood, this is a major benefit.
- Harder and More Durable: On the Janka hardness scale, black locust ranks at around 1,700, making it one of the hardest domestic hardwoods. This hardness ensures black locust decking is resistant to dents, scratches, and wear, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas like outdoor patios and decks.
- Eco-Friendly and Sustainable: Black locust is a fast-growing tree, making it a sustainable choice for decking materials. Its natural durability eliminates the need for chemical treatments or preservatives, unlike cedar, which often requires additional sealing to maintain its longevity.
The Verdict: Black Locust Decking is the Clear Winner
When comparing cedar decking to black locust decking, the advantages of black locust are hard to ignore. While cedar offers a certain level of natural resistance and aesthetic appeal, its softness, poor UV resistance, and limited lifespan make it a less durable option over time.
On the other hand, black locust decking’s superior hardness, longevity, UV resistance, and sustainability make it a long-term investment worth considering. If you’re looking for a deck that will stand the test of time with minimal maintenance, black locust is the clear winner.
FAQs:
- How long does black locust decking last compared to cedar?
Black locust decking can last over 50 years, even in extreme weather conditions. Its natural resistance to decay and insects makes it highly durable with minimal maintenance. In contrast, cedar decking typically lasts around 15-20 years with proper care, but this lifespan can be shortened if exposed to harsher environments without routine upkeep. - Does black locust decking require sealing?
No, black locust is naturally rot-resistant and does not require sealing or chemical treatments. Its durability comes from its dense cellular structure, which prevents moisture from penetrating the wood. However, for aesthetic reasons, some homeowners may choose to seal or stain their black locust deck to preserve its color. Cedar decking, on the other hand, needs regular sealing or staining to protect it from UV damage and weathering. - How does black locust compare to tropical hardwoods like Ipe?
Black locust is often considered a domestic alternative to exotic hardwoods like Ipe. Both woods are extremely durable and have long lifespans, but black locust offers a more sustainable option as it is harvested locally in North America. Ipe, while also highly durable, comes from tropical rainforests, raising concerns about environmental impact and deforestation. - Which decking is more eco-friendly: cedar or black locust?
Black locust is one of the most eco-friendly hardwoods due to its fast growth and natural resistance to decay, eliminating the need for chemical treatments. Cedar, while also considered a "green" option, typically requires more treatments (like stains and preservatives) over time to maintain its longevity and resistance to insects and rot. Black locust’s long lifespan also means fewer replacements, reducing waste.
Can black locust be used for other outdoor projects?
Yes, black locust is versatile and can be used for various outdoor applications beyond decking, including fences, pergolas and outdoor furniture. Its hardness and weather resistance make it ideal for projects that require long-lasting, durable wood.
