Deck Designs: Composite vs. Pressure-Treated Wood

What Type of Deck Material Is Right for You?

When it comes to outdoor living spaces, there’s no denying the appeal of great deck designs. However, there’s a choice to be made in what material to use when building that deck. The two most popular materials are pressure-treated wood and Trex decking (a composite decking material).

So, what exactly are these two materials? To start, pressure-treated wood undergoes a chemical process that helps the wood withstand the varying elements of weather. It also helps ward off insects, microorganisms, and fungal decay.

During the pressure treating process, wood is also saturated with a water-soluble chemical. Composite decking materials, such as Trex, typically consist of various types of plastic that are mixed with wood particles. Because it’s made up of a considerable amount of plastic, composite decking won’t succumb to rot or insect damage.

Which of these two is right for you? To help you better evaluate which material will best fit your new deck, we’re going to compare the two materials in three major categories: upkeep, cost, and aesthetics.

Pressure-Treated vs. Composite Deck Comparisons

1. Upkeep

   Composite: Although very durable, composite decking still requires some maintenance, as it’s still susceptible to the outdoor elements. For example, mold can grow on its surface and pollen can cover a deck just like it does your house and car. To clean a composite material, you can pressure wash it or apply a mild detergent with a soft-bristled brush. This will rid the surface of most mildew, pollen, and other debris. Mildew left for too long, however, may require a deeper cleaning technique. You don’t want to use bleach, as it can fade the deck. If mold detergent doesn’t work, choose a cleaner made specifically for composites or hire a professional deck cleaner qualified to treat tough stains.

   Pressure-treated wood: Wood deck designs require more upkeep than composite decks and will need to be sealed and stained. Most professionals recommend sealing and staining the wood every year. For interim maintenance, if the deck gets dirty, especially during pollen season, it’s best to use a soft bristle brush and mild soap or detergent to clean the wood. Avoid power washing, as this can cause the wood to strip and splinter.

2. Cost

   Composite: The cost to construct a composite deck can be double the price of pressure-treated wood, but it’s the durability of this material that makes it worth every penny. A composite material can last up to 50 years, and most manufacturers, like Trex, offer either a 25-year or limited-lifetime warranty on structural integrity. Some warranties are even transferable from one homeowner to another. Most composite manufacturers also offer everything you need to finish deck designs like fascia boards, railings, balusters, treads, posts, etc. These finishing touches can be made in the same color and material for a cohesive design.

   Pressure-treated wood: Pressure-treated wood, while significantly less expensive, may only last you 10 to 15 years, if that, and offers no warranty.

3. Aesthetics

   Composite: From afar, composite decking resembles real wood and, depending on the color, painted wood. Many homeowners considering composite often ask if the material can be painted when it fades and/or when they want to change the look. The answer varies. Some companies sell paints specifically for composites. However, before trying to paint it, speak to the deck manufacturer and a professional painter. You’ll find many horror stories on the internet from homeowners who painted with a product that ended up peeling within a year or so.

   Pressure-treated wood: If you love the authentic look of real wood, pressure-treated wood is for you. It is, however, necessary to stain and seal your deck to maintain its integrity, meaning you can change the look of your deck at any time.

A deck can help expand your living and entertaining space, and can help maximize outdoor enjoyment. Let us help you decide what material is best for your home and budget. We can make your deck dreams a reality.

Learn more about our decking services and check out our deck gallery.

Get started today by contacting DBS Remodel to schedule decking services for your home.