Wood vs. Composite. Choosing the Right Deck Material

Wood vs. Composite. Choosing the Right Deck Material

Table of Contents

There may be nothing better than when the weather in Kansas City starts cooperating and the longer days allow for time spent outside. Even more relaxing is time spent outside on your deck.

Whether you are building new, replacing, or thinking about upgrading your deck, there are many factors in choosing the right one for your home. One of the main considerations is what type of material you are going to use.

The two most common choices are wood or composite decking material. Here are some factors to consider for each of them.

Wood Deck Options

People like to go with what they know. Wood decks are the most traditional and thus a comfortable and popular choice. They are also more affordable which makes them an attractive choice for a wide range of homeowners.

Going with a wood deck, you have several options in the type of lumber you can use. Cedar is a common choice because of its durability and natural resistance to water. And if taken good care of, it can give you fifteen to twenty years plus of enjoyment. Redwood is often chosen for its natural beauty but, like cedar, it also has a great reputation for resisting moisture, wood rot, and pests.

Another popular wood option, mainly because of its affordability, is pressure-treated wood. Although not as naturally durable, pressure-treated wood will still give you decades of use if you perform yearly maintenance.

Regardless of the type of wood you choose, annual maintenance of cleaning and checking for damaged wood is recommended as well as re-staining every couple of years.

Composite Decking

Every homeowner wants value. And this is why composite decking is growing in popularity. Although it can be pricier than wood upfront, the long-term benefits of composite decking give it a high return on investment.

One of the benefits is the various color and grading options you can choose from. This allows homeowners the opportunity to create the appearance of a wood deck or easily coordinate with their home’s exterior.

Since it is not a natural material, composite decking is less environmentally friendly. This does, however, make it more resistant to the elements, rot, and insects making it one of the biggest benefits of going with composite decking.

Because it can be perceived as an upgrade, composite decking also adds value to your home.

Choosing the Right Deck Material

If you are still unsure which is the right deck material to choose, give us a call. We can show you options, walk you through the process and even help with the installation.

Author picture
Author picture

JOHN MURPHY

Owner