Trex vs. cedar cost depends on board grade, deck size, and whether the existing frame can be reused. For a typical 300-square-foot deck, decking and installation often run about $7,500-$13,500 for Trex and $6,000-$12,000 for cedar, before major framing repairs.
The comparison below assumes standard residential decking, ordinary access, and professional installation; premium cedar grades and higher-end Trex lines can exceed these ranges.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trex installed decking | $25/sq ft | $35/sq ft | $45/sq ft | Composite boards and typical labor |
| Cedar installed decking | $20/sq ft | $30/sq ft | $40/sq ft | Grade and finish affect price |
| Trex boards only | $4/sq ft | $7/sq ft | $12/sq ft | Brand line and color vary |
| Cedar boards only | $3/sq ft | $5/sq ft | $9/sq ft | Common grades; premium clear cedar costs more |
What Trex and cedar cost on a 300-square-foot deck
For a 300-square-foot deck, Trex typically totals $7,500-$13,500 installed, with an average near $10,500. Cedar commonly totals $6,000-$12,000, averaging about $9,000. These estimates cover decking boards, standard fasteners, and installation, not a new frame, stairs, railing, or complex demolition.
Cedar usually has the lower initial price, while Trex avoids routine staining and sealing. For resurfacing over sound framing, the total may be lower; replacing joists or adding stairs can raise either quote substantially. Assumptions: U.S. mid-market labor rates, standard rectangular layout, pressure-treated frame in reusable condition.
How boards, labor, and removal shape each quote
Quotes should separate the decking material from installation and site work. Cedar pricing changes with grade and board thickness; Trex pricing shifts by product line, color, and whether grooved boards require hidden fasteners.
| Quote item | Trex range | Cedar range | Typical scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decking material | $4-$12/sq ft | $3-$9/sq ft | Boards, excluding special trim |
| Installation labor | $8-$18/sq ft | $7-$16/sq ft | Layout, cutting, fastening |
| Fasteners and trim | $1-$4/sq ft | $0.50-$3/sq ft | Clips, screws, fascia, edge details |
| Removal and disposal | $2-$6/sq ft | $2-$6/sq ft | Old boards and debris handling |
| Frame repairs | $5-$20/sq ft | $5-$20/sq ft | Localized or extensive joist work |
Labor and hidden framing repairs can outweigh the price gap between board materials. Carpenter rates commonly fall around $50-$100 per hour, though many deck contractors quote by square foot or project rather than billing hourly.
Deck size, board grade, and layout change the price
Board price is only one part of the estimate. At 150 square feet, a simple replacement may cost roughly $3,750-$6,750 with Trex or $3,000-$6,000 with cedar. A 500-square-foot deck can reach $12,500-$22,500 for Trex and $10,000-$20,000 for cedar at the installed ranges above.
Stairs, borders, and angled layouts increase cuts and labor even when square footage stays constant. Cedar select or clear grades can cost 30%-70% more than common grades. Trex premium lines may run 20%-50% above entry-level composite. For decks wider than 16 feet or with spans requiring additional framing, structural work may add $5-$20 per square foot.
Trex and cedar quotes vary across U.S. markets
Local labor availability and delivery distance affect both materials. In high-cost metro areas, installed pricing may be 15%-30% above national mid-market estimates; rural markets can be 5%-15% lower when contractors have short travel distances and materials are readily available.
Regional labor differences often matter more than the advertised board price. Cedar can be less expensive near western lumber suppliers, while Trex freight or stock availability may add cost in remote areas. Ask whether the quote includes delivery, sales tax, and disposal rather than comparing material prices alone.
Installation hours depend on stairs and frame condition
A two-person crew may take about 2-4 days to replace boards on a straightforward 300-square-foot deck with reusable framing. Stairs, railings, picture-frame borders, or extensive joist repairs can extend the job to 4-7 days. Cedar may require additional finishing time if the owner wants stain or sealant applied.
Changing the deck design during construction can trigger added labor and material charges. Confirm the number of stairs, fascia coverage, railing scope, and disposal plan in writing. A quote that seems unusually low may exclude demolition, fasteners, or frame adjustments.
Three deck quotes show where the premium lands
| Project | Boards and labor | Other work | Estimated total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200 sq ft cedar resurfacing | $20-$30/sq ft; 24-36 crew hours | $400-$900 removal and disposal | $4,400-$6,900 |
| 300 sq ft Trex replacement | $25-$40/sq ft; 36-55 crew hours | $600-$1,500 removal | $8,100-$13,500 |
| 400 sq ft cedar with stairs | $25-$40/sq ft; 55-80 crew hours | $1,000-$3,000 stairs and repairs | $11,000-$19,000 |
These examples show why scope must match before comparing bids. Crew hours are approximate and vary with access, board pattern, and contractor methods; estimates assume no full frame replacement.
Long-term upkeep can narrow the cedar price advantage
Cedar generally needs cleaning and periodic sealing or staining, often every 2-3 years depending on exposure and finish. Materials and labor for a professional treatment may cost about $1-$3 per square foot. Trex typically needs washing rather than staining, though damaged boards and fasteners still require attention.
Over five years, cedar maintenance may add roughly $1,500-$4,500 on 300 square feet if professionally serviced. DIY cleaning and finishing can lower that expense, while harsh sun, standing water, and heavy foot traffic can increase upkeep for either surface.
Control Trex or cedar cost through scope choices
Keeping a sound frame, choosing a standard board color, and using a simple rectangular layout can reduce both quotes. Compare at least three bids with the same square footage, railing and stair details, removal scope, and material grade. Request separate prices for optional fascia, lighting, and premium borders.
Do not pay for frame replacement unless inspection shows rot, movement, or inadequate support. Cedar can reduce the upfront budget when routine finishing is acceptable; Trex may suit a budget that prioritizes less surface maintenance. Scheduling outside peak spring and summer demand may also improve contractor availability, but savings depend on local workload.