Wood vs Composite Decking: How to Choose

Choosing between wood and composite decking is primarily a trade-off between upfront cost and long-term maintenance. Here is how they compare across the factors that matter most.

Upfront cost

Pressure-treated pine decking runs $2–$4 per linear foot for 5/4x6 boards. Cedar and redwood run $4–$7. Mid-grade composite decking (Trex Enhance, TimberTech Terrain) runs $4–$8 per linear foot. Premium composites (Trex Transcend, TimberTech Legacy) run $8–$15. Labor costs are similar regardless of material. Composite decking typically costs 20–50% more than PT pine for materials.

Long-term maintenance cost

Wood decking needs annual cleaning and sealing or staining, typically $50–$150 in materials per year for a 400 sq ft deck (or $300–$500+ if you hire out). Composite decking needs only annual cleaning with soap and water — no staining, no sealing. Over a 15-year period, the total cost of ownership often favors composite, especially when labor is accounted for.

Lifespan

A well-maintained pressure-treated deck can last 25–40 years. Untreated cedar or redwood lasts 15–25 years with good maintenance. Quality composite decking products carry 25–30 year warranties and typically outlast PT pine in practice because they do not rot, splinter or check.

Appearance and feel

Real wood feels and looks natural underfoot. It stays cooler in direct sun than composite (which can get quite hot on south-facing decks in summer). Composite decking has improved dramatically in appearance, with realistic wood grain textures and multiple colours, but knowledgeable observers can still tell the difference up close.

Which should you choose?

• Budget build with regular maintenance: pressure-treated pine.
• Natural look, moderate budget, willing to seal every 1-2 years: cedar or redwood.
• Low maintenance priority, longer horizon, willing to spend more upfront: quality composite.
• Never want to think about maintenance again: capped PVC or capped composite.