Deck Materials
Choosing the right material for your deck is all about balance — between budget, appearance, longevity, and the level of maintenance you’re comfortable with. Each option has its place, depending on how long you plan to stay in your home, how much care you want to give the deck, and the kind of atmosphere you’re hoping to create.
Here’s a breakdown of the three main types of deck materials we use most often:
1. Pressure Treated Lumber
Overview:
The most affordable deck material. Pressure-treated wood is widely available and, when well-built, can last many years. Left untreated, it fades to a silvery grey and may develop small surface cracks, cupping, or minor twisting over time.
Maintenance:
- Needs staining or painting every 1–3 years
- Regular cleaning and occasional sanding required
- Boards may shrink slightly as they dry
Aesthetic Options:
We can keep it simple and economical, or elevate the finish with better-grade lumber, picture framing, and hidden fasteners (like the CAMO system) for a more refined look.
Cost Perspective:
- About ¼ the cost of top-tier composite
- Roughly ½ the cost of entry-level composite
2. Cedar
Overview:
A naturally rot-resistant softwood with a warm, organic character. Cedar looks beautiful when freshly installed and ages gracefully to a silver patina if left untreated. It’s more stable than pressure-treated and easier to work with.
Maintenance:
- Needs oiling or staining every 2–3 years
- Can be left to weather naturally if you like the silvery-grey look
- Still susceptible to wear in high-traffic zones
Cost Perspective:
- Typically more expensive than pressure-treated
- Comparable in cost to lower-end composite options
3. Composite Decking
Overview:
Composite decking is made from recycled materials and polymers. It’s designed to be low-maintenance, long-lasting, and highly consistent in appearance. Some products mimic the look of real wood, while others lean modern and sleek.
Installation Considerations:
- Requires precise spacing and careful alignment
- Most systems use hidden fasteners (adds time and cost)
- Must be installed thoughtfully to avoid expansion/contraction issues
Maintenance:
- No staining, painting, or sealing required
- Occasional wash with soap and water
- Won’t splinter, rot, or warp over time
Cost Perspective:
- Entry-level composite: $10–$12/sq ft (material only)
- High-end composite: $18–$20/sq ft
- Installation is slower, and total build cost can be 2x or more compared to pressure-treated
Composite is a great choice if you’re looking for a “build it once and forget it” solution.
