Written by Tim Gaughan, Urban Edge. Published April 29, 2026.
Composite decking costs more up front but needs almost no upkeep in Portland's wet months, while cedar costs less, looks and feels like real wood, and needs cleaning and a finish every few years to stay sound. Both can last a long time here if the framing underneath is built and flashed right, which matters more than the boards you walk on.
Side by side
| Composite | Cedar |
|---|
| Upkeep | Wash once or twice a year | Clean and refinish every 2 to 3 years |
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| In the rain | Does not soak up water or rot | Weathers well, but grays and grows moss if left |
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| In summer sun | Darker colors get hot to bare feet | Stays cooler |
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| Looks | Uniform color and grain | Real wood, every board different |
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| Slip | Varies by product; ask about wet grip | Can get slick with moss and algae |
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| Up-front cost | Higher | Lower |
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What Portland's weather does to each
Cedar handles rain better than most woods, which is why it has been the local deck board for generations. What wears it down is months of moisture with no sun: moss, algae and gray surface fibers. A deck in full shade under firs needs more care than one facing south.
Composite does not rot, but it is not maintenance-free. It can grow mildew on the surface in shade, and it needs space for drainage and airflow under it like any deck. Products vary a lot, so ask to see the one being quoted.
The part nobody sees: framing
Most deck boards, wood or composite, sit on pressure-treated wood framing. In Portland the framing is what fails: at the ledger where the deck meets the house, at joist tops where water sits, and at posts set in wet soil. A good bid explains how the ledger is flashed, how joist tops are protected, and how posts meet the footings. If old framing has rot, the repair belongs on our Dry Rot site.
How to choose
- Choose composite if you want to spend weekends on the deck, not working on it, and the budget allows.
- Choose cedar if you love the look of wood, the deck gets some sun, and you don't mind a refinish every few years. Our Painting site covers deck staining.
- Either way, put the money into framing and flashing first.
Our decks
Our work is covered by a 2-year workmanship warranty, in writing.
Get a free estimate or call Tim, (503) 597-8520.