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.
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does composite decking get hot?
Yes, darker composites can get uncomfortably hot. Choose lighter colors for full-sun decks or consider capped composites with cooler technology.
Can I install composite over existing wood?
Generally no. Composite requires proper joist spacing and ventilation. Most projects require removing existing decking.
Topics
- decking
- trex
- composite
- wood deck
- comparison
About the author
Remodel Your Vibe Design Team
Written by the design team at Remodel Your Vibe, a licensed (CSLB #1119054 (opens the CSLB license record in a new tab)), bonded and insured, veteran-owned and family-operated design-build company based in Los Angeles. Our own crews design, permit and build pools, backyards, ADUs and interiors across Greater Los Angeles and Orange County.
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