Wood Decking vs Composite: Which Is Better for Your Next Deck?

When it comes to deck building, one of the first and most important decisions you’ll face is choosing between wood decking and composite decking. Both materials offer unique advantages—and both come with trade-offs. So how do you know which is right for your home, budget, and long-term goals?

At Main Street Contractors, we’ve helped countless homeowners transform their outdoor spaces with custom decks that suit their style and lifestyle. Whether you’re working with a small patio or planning a multi-level outdoor retreat, the material you choose plays a major role in how your deck will look, feel, and perform over time.

In this article, we’ll compare wood and composite decking head-to-head, breaking down their pros, cons, costs, maintenance needs, and aesthetics to help you make an informed decision.

Deck Building: Why Your Choice of Material Matters

Your deck isn’t just an add-on—it’s an extension of your living space. A place for summer barbecues, morning coffee, and late-night conversations. That’s why choosing the right material is more than a matter of cost—it's about comfort, durability, and style.

Choosing between traditional wood decking and modern composite deck building can shape how much maintenance you’ll need to do, how long your deck will last, and how it will look five or ten years down the road.

Let’s break it down.

Wood Decking: Classic and Natural

Wood decking has been a go-to choice for decades, and it’s easy to see why. It offers a natural, warm appearance that many homeowners love. When properly maintained, wood decks can last for many years and bring undeniable charm to any backyard.

Pros of Wood Decking:

• Natural Beauty: The organic texture and grain of real wood offer a look that synthetic materials can't fully replicate.
  
  
• Lower Upfront Cost: Pressure-treated lumber is generally less expensive than composite boards, making wood a more budget-friendly option initially.
  
  
• Versatility: Wood can be stained, painted, or left to weather naturally, giving you flexibility with design.
  
  

Cons of Wood Decking:

• High Maintenance: To prevent rot, warping, and insect damage, wood requires regular sealing, staining, and cleaning.
  
  
• Vulnerability to Weather: Wood is susceptible to moisture damage, fading from UV rays, and splintering over time.
  
  
• Shorter Lifespan: Even with proper care, most wood decks last 10–15 years before needing major repairs or replacement.
  
  

Best Types of Wood for Decking:

• Pressure-treated lumber: Most common and affordable
  
  
• Cedar and redwood: Naturally resistant to insects and rot
  
  
• Hardwoods (e.g., ipe, mahogany): More expensive but highly durable
  
  

Composite Deck Building: Low-Maintenance and Long-Lasting

Composite decking is made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, offering the look of wood with fewer maintenance requirements. Over the last two decades, it has become a top choice for homeowners seeking long-term performance and convenience.

Pros of Composite Decking:

• Low Maintenance: No staining, sealing, or sanding required—just occasional cleaning with soap and water.
  
  
• Durable and Weather-Resistant: Won’t rot, splinter, or warp; resists mold and insect damage.
  
  
• Color Retention: Maintains its look longer without fading in the sun.
  
  
• Longer Lifespan: Composite decks can last 25–30 years or more with minimal upkeep.
  
  

Cons of Composite Decking:

• Higher Upfront Cost: Initial installation is typically more expensive than wood.
  
  
• Heat Retention: Can get hotter than wood under direct sun.
  
  
• Less Customizable: Cannot be painted or stained like wood (you choose your color and stick with it).
  
  

Popular Composite Brands:

Trex®, TimberTech®, Fiberon®, and AZEK® are among the top brands offering a range of colors and textures to suit any home style.

Wood vs. Composite: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Thinking about a new deck?