Is composite decking better than wood.
Cost of composite vs wood deck.
Invented in the late 1980s wood plastic composite decking also called composite wood decking is made of wood fibers encased in plastic.
The primary drawback to composite decking is arguably the higher price tag.
On average a pressure treated wood deck will cost between 15 to 25 per square foot including installation.
Made to look like wood but can cost more.
A deck can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years if made from untreated wood and can last as long as 50 years for treated wood or composite materials because a deck is a long term investment and you will be enjoying it for decades to come it s important to understand your choice of materials before starting your building project.
However it does tend to be more expensive than real wood when it comes to your initial cost.
Learn more about material lifespans and which decking is right for your home.
The cost to install a composite deck is roughly double the cost of wood when you factor in the higher materials cost plus labor.
May cost the most but has the longest lifespan.
Some composites cost about twice as much as real wood depending on the varieties you compare.
Wood decking also is likely to need replacement sooner than the other decking materials because it is prone to decay and rot over time.
Composite vs wood deck cost.
If your budget for installing a deck is limited you may choose to.
As with real wood composite decking varies in price depending on the quality and type you choose.
In comparison the cost to build a pressure treated wood deck is 15 to 25 per square foot while a cedar wood deck starts at 30 per square foot.
A cedar wood deck will cost 30 or more per square foot a composite deck will cost 30 to 45 per square foot installed.
The long term cost of maintenance on a wood deck should be factored in with the initial cost of the material.
Composite decking is readily available at big box home improvement stores like the home depot and lowe s as well as local lumberyards throughout the u s.
Costs as much as composite but lasts longer with less upkeep.
Can vary depending on seasonal availability.
4 13 per square foot for the boards.
Compare wood vs composite deck cost quick summary.
The labor price to install a composite or wood deck ranges from 9 to 12 per square foot.
Most popular and looks natural but also demands the most maintenance.