Wood vs. composite decking: upfront cost, maintenance, lifespan, and which delivers more long-term value.
Composite decking wins on lifetime value for homeowners staying 10+ years. The maintenance savings close the upfront gap. Pressure-treated wood is the right call for tight budgets or shorter ownership horizons. Never skip the PT wood sealing schedule.
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Decking is one of the most debated material choices in home improvement. Pressure-treated wood is the traditional standard: cheap, strong, and universally available. Composite decking (Trex, Fiberon, TimberTech) entered the market as a premium alternative. Today, composite outsells wood decking in many markets. The reason comes down to maintenance math.
Pressure-treated pine is the most affordable decking option at $15–$25 per sq ft installed*. It's structurally strong and holds fasteners well. But PT wood requires annual sealing or staining to prevent splitting, graying, and rot. And if neglected even for 2–3 years, it deteriorates noticeably. A PT deck that's properly maintained can last 15–25 years; one that isn't may need significant repair or replacement in 10.
Premium composite decking (Trex Transcend, TimberTech Azek) runs $35–$60 per sq ft installed*. It requires no staining, no sealing, and no annual maintenance beyond occasional washing. Most premium composite lines carry 25–30 year fade and stain warranties. Over a 25-year period, the maintenance cost savings on a 400 sq ft deck (staining every 2–3 years at $300–$600) can close a significant portion of the upfront premium gap.
*All cost estimates on this page are planning estimates, not quotes. Actual costs vary by location, project scope, materials, site conditions, and contractor. See methodology and sources.
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