Cedar deck boards are versatile building materials that offer more than just their intended use in decking projects. Their durability, natural beauty, and resistance to rot and insects make them suitable for a variety of alternative DIY projects.
Do you have extra deck boards or just want to know what else you can do with them? Perhaps you need cedar boards for a project and want to take advantage of the great prices and availability at Warehouse ’71. In any case, here are some creative ways to utilize cedar deck boards beyond traditional decking:
1. Outdoor Furniture
Cedar deck boards can be transformed into stylish and durable outdoor furniture pieces like benches, chairs, tables, work benches and even loungers. Their natural resistance to weathering makes them ideal for withstanding outdoor elements.
2. Raised Garden Beds
Building raised garden beds with cedar deck boards is a popular choice among gardeners. Cedar’s natural resistance to decay and insects ensures a longer lifespan for the beds, without the harsh chemicals of pressure treated lumber. Its attractive appearance also adds a touch of elegance to the garden.
3. Planter Boxes
Cedar deck boards can be used to construct beautiful planter boxes for both outdoor and indoor spaces. Their natural aroma also acts as a mild insect repellent, offering protection to the plants inside.
4. Privacy Screens
Create privacy and enhance your outdoor living space by building cedar deck board privacy screens. These screens not only provide seclusion but also add a warm and inviting aesthetic to your patio or deck area.
5. Trellises and Arbors
Cedar’s strength and durability make it an excellent material for constructing trellises and arbors in your garden. These types of structures provide support for climbing plants, adding vertical elements, and creating beautiful focal points.
6. Accent Walls
Transform any room in your home by incorporating cedar deck boards as an accent wall. The warm tones and natural grain patterns of cedar lend a rustic charm to interiors and create a cozy ambiance.
7. Ceiling Paneling
Installing cedar deck boards as ceiling paneling can give a room a distinct and inviting look. The wood’s aroma and natural properties make it a popular choice for spaces like porches, sunrooms, or even indoor saunas. Also check out our stock of Cedar T&G Paneling here!
8. Exterior Cladding
Cedar deck boards can be used as an alternative to traditional exterior cladding materials. They provide an attractive and durable finish, protecting your home while giving it a timeless and natural appeal.
9. Shelving and Sotrage
Create functional and visually appealing shelves and storage units using cedar deck boards. Whether it’s for organizing your garage, creating a unique display in your living room, or designing a stylish bookshelf, cedar adds character and charm to any storage solution.
10. DIY Crafts
Cedar deck boards can be repurposed into various smaller DIY projects like coasters, picture frames, wall art, and more. The wood’s natural beauty and unique grain patterns make these crafts truly unique.
11. Air conditioning surround
Our own Chris Chaffin used cedar deck boards on his project to make cedar split rail for an A/C surround with neutral-colored boards to make the A/C unit blend in with the environment.
Chris used cedar boards and spent only $120 and 3 hours to complete this project. The result was a simple design and easy installation! You can learn more about this experience, complete with step-by-step instructions, if you, too, would like to create a surround for your unit.
View Chris’s completed project below!
Whatever your project may be, remember to properly prepare and treat cedar deck boards to enhance their longevity to protect them from the elements. Applying a suitable sealant or stain will help maintain their appearance and resist weathering.
About Warehouse ’71
Warehouse ‘71’s lumber department is growing tremendously. We are expanding our lumber collection for all different applications. We have cedar, pine and ipe decking, exotic hardwoods and more! We currently have plenty of items at a volume discount. Check out our store here.
