exterior
Wood vs Composite Decking
Wood costs 40% less upfront but requires ongoing maintenance costing $200-500/year. Composite pays off after 7-10 years and offers stress-free enjoyment.
Option A
Pressure-Treated Wood
$15-$25
per sq ft
Lifespan15-20 years
MaintenanceStain/seal every 2-3 years
Pros
- ✓Lower upfront cost
- ✓Natural wood beauty
- ✓Easy repairs
- ✓Paintable/stainable
Cons
- ✗Regular maintenance
- ✗Splinters
- ✗Can warp/rot
- ✗Fades quickly
Best for: Budget projects and DIYers who enjoy maintenance
Option B
Composite Decking
$25-$45
per sq ft
Lifespan25-30 years
MaintenanceAnnual cleaning only
Pros
- ✓Near-zero maintenance
- ✓No splinters
- ✓Won't rot or warp
- ✓Long warranty
Cons
- ✗Higher upfront cost
- ✗Can get hot in sun
- ✗Limited color changes
- ✗Harder to repair
Best for: Low-maintenance seekers and long-term value
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Criteria | Pressure-Treated Wood | Composite Decking | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $15-25/sq ft ✓ | $25-45/sq ft | Pressure-Treated Wood |
| Maintenance Cost | $200-500/year | Near zero ✓ | Composite Decking |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years | 25-30 years ✓ | Composite Decking |
| Look | Natural (when maintained) | Consistent color | Tie |
| Durability | Can warp/rot/splinter | Won't rot/splinter ✓ | Composite Decking |
| Resale Value | Good | Very good ✓ | Composite Decking |
The Verdict
Wood costs 40% less upfront but requires ongoing maintenance costing $200-500/year. Composite pays off after 7-10 years and offers stress-free enjoyment.
Choose Pressure-Treated Wood if:
Budget projects and DIYers who enjoy maintenance
Choose Composite Decking if:
Low-maintenance seekers and long-term value
Frequently Asked Questions
Is composite decking worth the cost?
Yes, if you factor in maintenance. Wood needs $200-500/year in staining/sealing. Over 15 years, composite typically costs less total while being maintenance-free.
Does composite look like real wood?
Premium composite convincingly mimics wood grain and color variation. Budget composites can look plasticky. Spend $30+/sq ft for realistic appearance.
Does composite decking get hot?
Yes, darker composites can get 20-30°F hotter than wood in direct sun. Choose lighter colors for hot climates, or use outdoor rugs.
Can you stain composite decking?
Generally no - the surface resists stain absorption. If you want to change color, choose wood or be prepared to replace boards. Some paints work but void warranties.
How long does each type last?
Pressure-treated wood lasts 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Composite lasts 25-30 years with just cleaning. Premium composites come with 25+ year warranties.
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