On Deck: Composite Versus Pressure-Treated Wood

Designing your dream deck is exciting, but choosing the decking material can be the hardest part. Pressure-treated wood is familiar to most homeowners and is still a popular choice, while many others are switching to low-maintenance composite decking such as Trex.

Whichever way you are leaning, weigh the pros and cons so you make the right choice for your home.

Composite vs. Pressure-Treated Wood: How They Compare

Affordability

Price is often the biggest factor in a deck project. Pressure-treated wood costs less up front than other natural woods and especially composite, making it the best choice for smaller budgets.

Composite costs more initially but can pay for itself over time because it needs so little maintenance. Wood decks need regular sanding, staining or painting and sealing, and those costs add up. The question is whether you would rather pay more now or more later.

Splinters and Cracking

Composite decking is made of wood fibers encased in plastic, so it does not splinter. That is a big plus for anyone who goes barefoot or has kids playing on the deck. Wood decks can become a safety hazard once boards split, splinter or rot, and they need ongoing upkeep to stay safe.

Maintenance

Wood decks need constant care to look good and stay safe, including repairs for cracks, splinters and insect damage. Composite needs only soap and water or an occasional pressure washing, resists termites and is backed by long manufacturer warranties. Overall, composite is more durable and longer lasting than pressure-treated wood.

Surface Temperature

Composite can get hotter than wood in direct afternoon sun. If you go barefoot or have small children, consider a roof or porch cover. A contractor can tie a new deck roof into your existing roofline for a seamless look. Learn more about outdoor additions.

Eco-Friendliness

Many composite brands, including Trex, are made largely from recycled plastic and reclaimed wood that would otherwise go to a landfill. Pressure-treated lumber and water-resistant woods like cedar and teak require harvesting trees, and the densest species take a long time to mature.

Color

Composite comes in many natural colors that resemble stained or painted wood. Color runs through the board, which helps hide surface scratches. If you want a very specific color or nearly unlimited stain and paint choices, wood offers more flexibility, though it needs more upkeep over time.

Our Recommendation

Composite decking gives you natural beauty with far less upkeep, so when the budget allows, we recommend composite for new decks. Want year-round outdoor space instead? Read the benefits of adding a sunroom.

Plan Your New Deck or Porch

Our team can help you design a new deck or screened porch and choose the decking that fits your needs. Call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us online.