The decking material you choose affects maintenance, longevity, appearance, and cost for years to come. Here's how composite decking like Trex compares to natural wood options.
Cost Comparison
Pressure-treated pine: $15-25/sq ft installed. Redwood: $30-50/sq ft. Trex Select: $40-50/sq ft. Trex Transcend: $55-70/sq ft. TimberTech Azek: $60-80/sq ft. Composite costs 2-3x more upfront.
Maintenance Requirements
Wood decks need annual staining/sealing ($2-4/sq ft), regular cleaning, and board replacement. Composite decks need occasional cleaning only. Over 20 years, maintenance costs often exceed the composite price premium.
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Durability & Warranty
Pressure-treated wood lasts 10-15 years. Redwood lasts 15-25 years. Premium composites last 25-50 years with 25-year warranties. Composites resist rot, insects, and UV fading that affect wood.
Appearance & Feel
Wood offers natural beauty that many homeowners prefer. Modern composites closely mimic wood grain but feel different underfoot. Composites maintain color; wood develops patina or requires staining.
Final Thoughts
For California's climate, composite decking offers compelling long-term value despite higher upfront costs. If natural wood aesthetics are essential, redwood or ipe with proper maintenance are excellent choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, darker composites can get uncomfortably hot. Choose lighter colors for full-sun decks or consider capped composites with cooler technology.
Generally no. Composite requires proper joist spacing and ventilation. Most projects require removing existing decking.
