Purchasing red cedar decking in the U.S. typically runs in a broad range due to board grade, thickness, dimensions, and labor. The primary cost drivers are material grade, board length, labor hours, and regional price differences. This article presents clear price ranges for red cedar decking, including per-square-foot and per-board metrics, to help buyers budget accurately.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deck boards (per sq ft, installed) | $6.00 | $7.50 | $11.00 | Includes boards, fastening, and hidden fasteners where applicable |
| Materials only (cedar boards, rough sawn) | $2.50 | $3.50 | $4.50 | Unfinished, knots and grade vary |
| Labor to install 200 sq ft deck | $1,000 | $1,600 | $2,400 | Crew of 2-3, standard prep included |
| Excavation/footings (per linear ft) | $20 | $30 | $60 | Depends on soil and a concrete footing requirement |
| Fasteners and hidden hardware | $0.80 | $1.50 | $2.50 | Sectional pricing by square footage |
| Sealer or stain (per gallon) | $25 | $40 | $60 | Oil-based or water-based finishes differ in price |
Typical Red Cedar Decking Prices by Board Size and Grade
Red cedar deck boards usually range from 5/4 to 2 inches thick and 3.5 to 6 inches wide, affecting price per linear foot. Expect higher per-foot costs for thicker stock and premium heartwood with fewer knots. The installed price combines material, labor, and waste. Assumptions: standard residential lot, mid-range labor rates, western or southern regions.
Using common board sizes, the price ranges are:
- 5/4 x 6 boards: $2.50–$3.50 per linear foot (material only)
- 5/4 x 8 boards: $3.00–$4.20 per linear foot (material only)
- 2×6 boards with edge-grain heartwood: $4.50–$6.00 per linear foot (material only)
Installed Price Per Square Foot by Deck Size and Layout
Installed cost per square foot depends heavily on layout, joist spacing, and whether the deck uses stairs or a railing system. Typical residential decks include framing, flashing, and railings as needed. The ranges below assume standard 4×8 to 12×20 footprint with straightforward access. Assumptions: standard joists at 16 inches on center, basic railing, no specialized hardware.
- 200 sq ft deck: $6.50–$9.50 per sq ft
- 400 sq ft deck: $5.75–$8.50 per sq ft
- 600 sq ft deck: $5.50–$8.25 per sq ft
Regional Price Variations Across U.S. Markets
Regional differences can shift red cedar costs by 10–25% compared with national averages. Areas with higher timber supply or skilled labor costs push prices up. The below ranges reflect typical metro-to-rural gaps. Assumptions: Midwest and South tend to be lower, West Coast higher due to material transport.
- Coastal metropolitan: $7.50–$11.00 per sq ft installed
- Midwest urban: $6.50–$9.50 per sq ft installed
- Southern suburban: $6.00–$8.50 per sq ft installed
Labor Hours and Crew Size for Red Cedar Decking Projects
Labor time scales with deck size, complexity, and railing type. Typical crews are 2–3 workers, with 8–12 hours for small decks and 40+ hours for multi-tier designs. Assumptions: standard weather and site access; no major permitting delays.
- Small 200 sq ft: 1.5–2.5 days
- Medium 400 sq ft: 3–5 days
- Large 600 sq ft: 5–8 days
| Scenario | Labor Range | Materials Range | Installed Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 sq ft basic deck | $1,000–$1,600 | $1,200–$2,000 | $2,200–$3,600 | Stairs optional |
| 400 sq ft with railings | $1,800–$2,900 | $2,600–$4,000 | $4,400–$6,900 | Composite rail style adds cost |
| 600 sq ft multi-level | $2,800–$4,500 | $3,800–$6,000 | $6,600–$10,500 | Complex cuts, fasteners |
Material Grades and Aesthetic Options That Impact Price
Heartwood grades with tight grain command higher prices than standard select grades. Clear, knot-free boards cost more, while older growth or premium-grade cedar adds premium. Assumptions: outdoor exposure, UV protection required.
- Clear grade 5/4 x 6: $3.50–$4.50 per linear ft (material only)
- Standard select 5/4 x 6: $2.50–$3.20 per linear ft
- Heartwood 2×6: $5.00–$6.50 per linear ft
Finishing Choices: Sealer, Stain, and Maintenance Impacts
Finishing adds ongoing costs beyond initial install. A water-based sealant costs less upfront than oil-based finishes but may require more frequent reapplication. Annual maintenance to preserve color and decay resistance should be planned. Assumptions: 2 coats initial, annual recoat every 2–3 years.
- Sealer (per gal): $25–$40
- Stain (per gal): $35–$60
- Two-coat job installed: $0.50–$1.00 per sq ft for labor
Concrete Footings, Framing, and Drainage Costs
Proper foundations protect cedar decking and affect long-term performance. Footings, ledger board, flashing, and drainage add to the upfront cost, especially on sloped sites. Assumptions: standard full deck with ledger attachment to a solid structure.
- Footings and concrete: $20–$60 per linear ft
- Ledger flashing and sealant: $2–$5 per linear ft
- Framing lumber and hardware: included in labor estimate
Quote Comparison: Common Add-Ons and Hidden Fees
Some quotes include trim boards, railing posts, or freight that others itemize separately. Look for bundled pricing versus itemized line items to understand true cost. Assumptions: standard rail height, 36-inch height with code-compliant balusters.
- Delivery: $50–$150 per delivery
- Railing posts per foot: $25–$40
- Removal of old decking: $1.00–$2.50 per sq ft
Cost-Impact Variables at a Glance
Two numeric thresholds that commonly shift red cedar decking prices are deck area and joist span. As area grows from 200 to 600 sq ft, installed costs per sq ft typically drop slightly due to efficiencies. Longer joist spans can require more hardware and higher labor time. Assumptions: typical domestic climate, standard site access.
