Wood and composite decks each have their own unique advantages and disadvantages when it comes to maintenance, cost, appearance, and longevity. This article will provide an in-depth comparison of these two popular deck materials to help you make the best choice for your home.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to initial installation costs, wood decks are generally less expensive than composite. Softwoods like pine and cedar are affordable and readily available. Hardwoods like Ipe and Redwood cost more upfront but provide superior durability.
Composite decking has a significantly higher initial price point though the materials require less maintenance over time. Composites typically cost $25 to $30 per square foot installed versus $15 to $25 per square foot for wood. The type of substructure, railings, stairs, and labor will impact the final cost for any deck.
Keep in mind many composite manufacturers offer warranty programs ranging from 10 years up to lifetime coverage against defects, rotting, splitting, insect damage and more. The cost upfront pays dividends over decades of use without continual upkeep.
Appearance
Wood offers greater customization and aesthetic options compared to composites. You can stain or seal wood in a vast range of natural tones or paint colors. Wood can also be left to weather naturally and acquire a beautiful rustic grey patina over time. There are unlimited wood grain patterns and plank designs to create a one-of-a-kind look.
On the other hand, composites are restricted to the color and texture options offered by each brand. These are typically various shades of brown, grey, or red that mimic the look of natural wood. The color goes all the way through so scratches are less visible. Composites are also stain and fade resistant.
Durability and Longevity
Wood is susceptible to rotting, cracking, warping, and insect damage unless properly maintained. Frequent sanding and refinishing is necessary, especially for decks exposed to full sun and moisture. Some dense tropical hardwoods like Ipe can last 50+ years with minimal upkeep in the right climate. Lower cost softwoods like pine will require replacement within 10 to 15 years.
Composite decking is highly resilient against damage with virtually no maintenance required. Quality composites are stain, fade, mold, mildew, and insect resistant. They won’t rot, crack, or warp like natural wood. Heat and cold have minimal effects. With proper installation, composites should easily outlast any wood deck, providing decades of service with no refinishing needed.
Maintenance Comparison
A wood deck requires continual maintenance to look its best and prevent deterioration. Here are some of the typical maintenance tasks:
- Annual cleaning: Use a pressure washer or wood cleaner to remove pollen, dirt, and debris from the wood grain.
- Re-sealing: Reapply protective sealant or stain every 1-2 years to protect the wood from moisture and UV damage.
- Spot repairs: Fix individual planks when they crack, splinter, warp, or rot. This may ultimately lead to full replacement.
- Insect prevention: Ensure proper ventilation underneath and use borate powders or sprays to deter termites and carpenter ants.
Composite decks are virtually maintenance-free aside from occasional cleaning. Here’s all they require:
- Quick hose-off: Wash periodically with soap and water using a low pressure nozzle.
- Spot cleaning: Use a composite deck cleaner for tough stains. Avoid abrasive scouring pads.
- Snow removal: Clear snow carefully with a plastic shovel to prevent scratching.
- Occasional inspection: Check for debris stuck between planks causing mold.
So if you want to spend weekends relaxing outdoors rather than sanding and resealing, composites are the clear choice for low maintenance.
Environmental Impact Comparison
Wood is a natural material so there are some environmental benefits over composites:
- Renewable resource as long as forests are responsibly managed
- Biodegradable and recyclable
- Lower carbon footprint for locally sourced lumber
- Less energy used in production compared to composites
Despite these advantages of wood, composites offer some eco-friendly traits:
- Typically contain recycled plastics and reclaimed wood fiber
- Long lifespan means less replacement and landfill waste
- Require no harmful chemical treatments
- Offer recyclability in some markets
- Manufactured without depleting forests
So both materials can make eco-friendly decking choices with proper sourcing and disposal practices. There are green options available in each category.
Ideal Uses for Each Material
Here are some typical scenarios where wood or composites make the most sense:
Wood decks are ideal when you want:
- A wide range of custom stain colors
- Distressed, antique looking planks
- To match existing wood siding or trim
- Budget-friendly installation
- Flexibility for easy repairs and plank replacement
Composite decks are preferred for:
- Low maintenance and superior durability
- Contemporary, uniform appearance
- Stain and fade resistance
- Slip-proof surface and close board spacing
- Resilience against moisture and decay
In Summary
When choosing between wood or composite decking materials, weigh your priorities in terms of budget, appearance, maintenance, and longevity. Wood needs frequent upkeep but provides timeless beauty and customization. Composites cost more upfront yet deliver virtually carefree performance for decades. Evaluate which material’s strengths align closest with your needs and home’s style. With proper installation, both wood and composite decks can bring you lasting enjoyment as an outdoor living space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more expensive, wood or composite decking?
Composite decking has a significantly higher upfront cost, typically $25 to $30 per square foot compared to $15 to $25 per square foot for wood. However, composites require far less maintenance over their lifetime, saving money in the long run.
How long do wood and composite decks last?
With proper maintenance, high-quality woods like cedar and Ipe can last 30-50 years. Lower cost softwoods like pine will need replacing after 10-15 years. Composite decks can easily last 30-50 years or more with minimal upkeep required.
Which is better for the environment, wood or composite decks?
Both materials have environmental pros and cons. Wood is renewable, biodegradable and has a lower carbon footprint. Composites contain recycled content, avoid depletion of forests, and have a long lifecycle. Following green practices for either choice is recommended.
Which requires more maintenance, wood or composite decks?
Wood needs continual maintenance including re-sealing, replacing planks, and insect prevention. Composites only require occasional cleaning and inspection, saving a great deal of time and money over their lifespan.
Which material looks more natural, wood or composite?
Wood offers an authentic natural grain pattern and can achieve a distressed, timeworn look over the years. Composite colors seek to mimic wood tones but have a more uniform, manufactured appearance. Stains expand wood customization.
Can composite decks be repaired easily?
One advantage of composites is damaged planks can be swapped out easily with hidden fasteners. Wood requires more carpentry skills to alter individual boards. Full replacement is eventually needed for any deck.
Conclusion
When researching composite versus wood decks, the major differences come down to cost, durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetics. Consider how long you plan to stay in the home, your functional needs, and budget constraints. Wood needs frequent maintenance but provides customization at a lower upfront price. Composites offer carefree, splinter-free performance for decades despite a higher initial investment. With an informed comparison of the pros and cons for your home’s unique situation, you can decide whether wood or composite is the best decking solution.