9 Washington Cedar Decks That Stand The Test Of Time
Cedar decks in Washington state bring a special magic to homes nestled among evergreen forests and misty coastlines. These beautiful outdoor spaces blend seamlessly with the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty while standing strong against the region’s notorious rainfall. Washington homeowners cherish cedar for its natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture – perfect qualities for our damp climate. Whether overlooking Puget Sound or tucked into a forested backyard, these cedar sanctuaries become more characterful with each passing year.
1. Waterfront Wonder in Seattle
Perched above Elliott Bay, this 20-year-old cedar deck offers panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains. The homeowners chose a semi-transparent stain that allows the wood’s natural grain to shine through while offering protection.
Annual power washing and touch-up staining every three years keep this deck looking pristine despite constant exposure to salt spray. The cedar has developed a silver-gray patina in some areas, adding character without compromising structural integrity.
2. Rustic Retreat in Leavenworth
Nestled among towering pines, this Bavarian-inspired mountain home features a wrap-around cedar deck that’s weathered 25 Washington winters. The owners applied a dark walnut stain initially, creating rich contrast against the home’s lighter exterior.
Cedar’s natural oils have prevented decay despite heavy snowfall each winter. The deck includes built-in benches and planters crafted from the same resilient wood, creating a cohesive outdoor living space that improves with age.
3. Coastal Charm in Port Townsend
Facing the unpredictable Strait of Juan de Fuca, this Victorian home’s cedar deck has endured 30 years of coastal weather. The owners chose clear cedar heartwood for its superior resistance to the elements.
Annual treatments with marine-grade sealant protect against salt spray and driving rain. The deck’s classic balustrade design complements the home’s historical character while providing durability that modern materials struggle to match in harsh coastal environments.
4. Rainforest Resilience in Olympia
Surrounded by lush greenery, this cedar deck in Olympia’s rainforest climate demonstrates the wood’s legendary resistance to moisture. Built 15 years ago using locally-sourced cedar, the deck features subtle curves that follow the natural landscape.
The homeowners apply a water-repellent preservative biennially but otherwise let nature take its course. Despite receiving over 50 inches of rainfall annually, the deck remains solid and inviting, with moss adding character to northern sections without compromising structural integrity.
5. Vineyard Veranda in Walla Walla
Overlooking rows of grapevines, this expansive cedar deck provides the perfect setting for wine country entertaining. The 18-year-old structure features a pergola of matching cedar that supports wisteria vines, creating dappled shade during hot eastern Washington summers.
The owners chose a light natural finish that has gradually deepened to honey gold. Despite temperature fluctuations from 100°F summers to below-freezing winters, the deck remains splinter-free and structurally sound, proving cedar’s remarkable adaptability to extreme conditions.
6. Island Escape on Whidbey
Cantilevered over a bluff on Whidbey Island, this cedar deck offers eagle-eye views of Puget Sound. The owners selected quartersawn cedar for its exceptional stability and resistance to warping in the island’s variable climate.
The deck’s distinctive herringbone pattern has become more pronounced as the wood ages. A copper-toned semi-transparent stain protects while highlighting the wood’s rich texture, creating a warm contrast to the often gray Washington skies and complementing the copper accents on the home.
7. Lakeside Legacy in Chelan
This multi-level cedar deck has hosted three generations of family gatherings overlooking Lake Chelan. Built 40 years ago and carefully maintained, it showcases cedar’s extraordinary longevity when properly cared for.
The lower deck extends to a private dock where the cedar has developed a silvery sheen from water exposure. Upper levels remain protected by roof overhangs, preserving the wood’s original warmth. The family applies a penetrating oil finish every five years, ensuring this beloved space continues hosting memories for generations to come.
8. Mountain Marvel in North Bend
Positioned for stunning views of Mount Si, this cedar deck incorporates massive cedar posts salvaged from a 19th-century lumber mill. The 25-year-old structure blends seamlessly with its alpine surroundings while providing a front-row seat to changing mountain light.
The owners maintain the deck’s rich color with an annual light sanding and oil treatment. Cedar’s natural insect-repelling properties have proven invaluable in this woodland setting, keeping carpenter ants and termites at bay without chemical treatments that might harm the surrounding ecosystem.
9. Sustainable Sanctuary in Bellingham
This modern eco-friendly home features a cedar deck built entirely from sustainably harvested Washington timber. The owners worked with local Lummi Nation craftspeople to incorporate traditional cedar-working techniques into the contemporary design.
Left unstained to weather naturally, the deck has developed varying silver and charcoal tones. Strategic drainage channels and elevated footings ensure excellent airflow beneath the deck, preventing moisture buildup. After a decade of use, this thoughtfully constructed space proves that sustainability and durability go hand in hand.
