Ramin vs. Cedar for Outdoor Decking - What is The Difference?

Ramin wood offers superior hardness and natural resistance to decay, making it durable for outdoor decking. Cedar provides excellent weather resistance and a natural insect-repellent aroma, enhancing longevity and reducing maintenance needs.

Table of Comparison

Introduction to Ramin and Cedar Wood

Ramin wood, derived from the Shorea species native to Southeast Asia, is prized for its pale yellow to light brown hue, fine grain, and smooth texture, making it a popular choice for outdoor decking. Cedar, sourced mainly from Western Red Cedar trees, is renowned for its rich reddish color, natural resistance to decay, and aromatic properties that deter insects, enhancing its suitability for outdoor use. Both woods offer durability and aesthetic appeal but differ in density and maintenance requirements, influencing their performance in decking applications.

Wood Origin and Botanical Characteristics

Ramin wood originates from Southeast Asia, primarily Malaysia and Indonesia, and is known for its fine, straight grain and pale yellow to light brown color. Cedar, typically sourced from Western North America, features aromatic, reddish hues with natural oils that provide resistance to decay and insects. Botanically, Ramin belongs to the Dipterocarpaceae family, whereas Cedar comes from the Cupressaceae family, influencing their texture, durability, and suitability for outdoor decking applications.

Durability and Lifespan Comparison

Ramin wood offers moderate durability with a lifespan of around 10-15 years when properly maintained, making it suitable for light outdoor decking but less resistant to moisture and insect damage compared to cedar. Cedar is renowned for its natural oils that enhance resistance against decay, insects, and weathering, resulting in a lifespan of 15-25 years, depending on climate and upkeep. The superior longevity and rot resistance of cedar make it a more durable choice for outdoor decking exposed to varying environmental conditions.

Resistance to Weather and Insects

Ramin wood offers moderate resistance to weather and insect damage, making it suitable for outdoor decking in mild climates but requiring regular maintenance to prevent decay. Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, rot, and insect infestations due to its high oil content, providing superior durability for outdoor decking in various weather conditions. Both woods benefit from proper sealing, but cedar's inherent properties give it an advantage in longevity and protection against environmental factors.

Aesthetic Appeal and Grain Patterns

Ramin wood features a light yellow to pale brown color with a fine, straight grain that offers a smooth and uniform appearance, making it ideal for modern outdoor decking with subtle elegance. Cedar boasts rich reddish tones and a pronounced, attractive grain pattern that adds warmth and natural character to outdoor spaces. Both woods provide distinctive aesthetic qualities, with Ramin favoring understated refinement and Cedar delivering bold visual texture.

Maintenance Requirements for Each Wood

Ramin wood requires regular sealing and oiling to prevent moisture absorption and maintain its natural luster, as it is moderately resistant to weathering but prone to surface wear if left untreated. Cedar outdoor decking demands less intensive maintenance due to its natural oils and resins that offer inherent resistance to rot, decay, and insect damage, typically only needing annual cleaning and occasional resealing. Both woods benefit from periodic inspections and cleaning to extend their outdoor lifespan and preserve structural integrity.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Ramin wood, harvested from Southeast Asian tropical rainforests, has raised environmental concerns due to deforestation and habitat loss, making it less sustainable compared to Cedar, which is often sourced from responsibly managed North American forests. Cedar's natural resistance to decay and insects reduces the need for chemical treatments, enhancing its eco-friendliness in outdoor decking applications. Certified Cedar options carry sustainability credentials such as FSC or SFI, promoting renewable forest practices and lower carbon footprints in decking projects.

Cost Comparison: Ramin vs Cedar

Ramin decking typically costs less than cedar, making it a budget-friendly option for outdoor projects. While cedar ranges from $5 to $15 per board foot, Ramin often falls between $3 to $8 per board foot, offering significant savings. Cost differences are influenced by regional availability and durability factors, with cedar's natural resistance potentially reducing long-term maintenance expenses.

Installation and Workability Differences

Ramin wood offers smooth, fine grain that simplifies cutting, sanding, and shaping, making installation faster and more precise compared to Cedar, which has a softer texture and can splinter more easily. Cedar's natural oils provide resistance to decay and insects, reducing pre-treatment steps during installation, whereas Ramin often requires sealing to enhance durability. Workability-wise, Ramin's dense, hard nature demands sharper tools and more effort, while Cedar's lightweight and softer properties allow for easier nailing and screwing without splitting.

Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Wood for Outdoor Decking

Ramin offers a smooth finish, moderate durability, and affordability, making it suitable for light-use outdoor decking in shaded or covered areas. Cedar provides superior natural resistance to decay and insect damage, with a rich aesthetic and longer lifespan, ideal for exposed outdoor environments requiring minimal maintenance. For outdoor decking that demands robustness and longevity, cedar is generally the best choice, while Ramin works well for budget-conscious projects with less exposure to harsh elements.