Blaise
Co-Owner & Master Craftsman
Trex vs Cedar: Which Is Right for Your Georgia Deck?
Choosing between Trex composite and natural cedar is one of the biggest decisions Georgia homeowners face. Both are premium materials—but they serve different priorities. Let's break it down.
Quick Comparison Table
| Factor | Trex Composite | Cedar | |--------|----------------|-------| | Upfront Cost | $45-65/sq ft | $35-45/sq ft | | 10-Year Cost | ~$0 maintenance | +$2,500-4,000 staining | | 20-Year Cost | Original cost only | Replacement likely | | Lifespan | 30+ years | 15-20 years | | Warranty | 25 years | None | | Maintenance | Soap & water annually | Stain every 2-3 years | | Best For | Low-maintenance lifestyle | Natural wood lovers |
Performance in Georgia's Climate
Trex in Georgia
- ✅ Resists humidity and mold
- ✅ Won't warp from heat/rain cycles
- ✅ Lighter colors stay cool underfoot
- ⚠️ Dark colors can get warm in direct sun
Cedar in Georgia
- ✅ Natural beauty and aroma
- ✅ Naturally rot-resistant
- ⚠️ Requires sealing against humidity
- ⚠️ Needs staining every 2-3 years
- ⚠️ Can gray without treatment
True Cost Over 20 Years (300 sq ft deck)
Trex Composite:
- Initial build: $15,000
- Maintenance (20 years): $0
- Total: ~$15,000
Cedar:
- Initial build: $12,000
- Staining (7 applications): $2,800
- Repairs/replacements: ~$2,000
- Total: ~$16,800
Our Recommendation
For most Georgia homeowners, Trex composite offers the best long-term value. But if you love the authentic look and smell of natural wood and don't mind the maintenance commitment, cedar is a beautiful choice.
Contact RBJ Contracting for a free quote on either option!
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About the Author
Blaise
Blaise brings expert craftsmanship to every RBJ project. Specializing in both interior and exterior work, he ensures every detail meets the highest standards. His attention to detail and commitment to quality have been instrumental in achieving RBJ's 100% satisfaction rate.