Composite vs Wood Decking: Cost & Comparison
Wood decking costs less up front ($15–$35 per square foot installed) but needs annual sealing and lasts 10–20 years. Composite costs more ($25–$45) but needs almost no maintenance and lasts 25–30 years. Wood wins on price and natural feel; composite wins on longevity and low upkeep.
The biggest decision in any deck build is composite vs wood. They look increasingly similar, but they differ sharply on up-front cost, maintenance, and how long they last.
This guide compares composite and wood decking so you can pick the right one for your budget and how much upkeep you're willing to do.
Key takeaways
- Wood: $15–$35/ft²; composite: $25–$45/ft² installed.
- Wood needs annual sealing/staining; composite needs almost none.
- Composite lasts 25–30 years vs 10–20 for wood.
- Wood feels natural and is cheaper; composite is lower-maintenance.
- Composite can get hot in direct sun; wood can splinter and rot.
Skip the math
Get instant numbers with the Deck Calculator.
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Wood | Composite |
|---|---|---|
| Cost installed | $15 – $35/ft² | $25 – $45/ft² |
| Maintenance | Seal yearly | Wash occasionally |
| Lifespan | 10–20 yrs | 25–30 yrs |
| Look & feel | Natural wood | Uniform, wood-like |
When to choose wood
Choose wood for the lowest up-front cost and a genuine natural look and feel that many homeowners still prefer. Pressure-treated pine is the cheapest option and structurally sound; cedar and redwood cost more but naturally resist rot and insects while aging to an attractive silver-gray if left unsealed.
The trade-off is maintenance. Wood needs cleaning and a fresh coat of sealer or stain every year or two to prevent cracking, warping, and rot. If you enjoy that upkeep — or want the lowest possible starting price — wood is the pick.
When to choose composite
Choose composite if you'd rather spend weekends on the deck than maintaining it. Made from wood fibers and recycled plastic, composite resists rot, insects, staining, and fading, and never needs sealing — an occasional wash with soap and water keeps it looking new for decades.
The downsides are a higher up-front price and the fact that darker boards can get hot in direct sun. For most homeowners planning to stay put, the low maintenance and 25–30 year lifespan justify the premium.
Lifetime cost: the real comparison
Comparing only the sticker price is misleading. Wood costs less to build but adds up over time through stain, sealer, and the labor to apply them every year or two — plus board replacement as pieces rot or split. Composite costs more to install but its maintenance is close to zero. Over a 25-year horizon, the gap between the two narrows dramatically, and composite often comes out ahead once you count your time and materials.
Estimate either option
Our deck calculator estimates the deck boards, joists, fasteners, and installed cost for whichever material you choose, so you can compare wood and composite for your exact deck size before you buy.