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.
Cost of composite vs wood deck.
Also be aware of the cost of refinishing over the life of the decking.
May cost the most but has the longest lifespan.
Learn more about material lifespans and which decking is right for your home.
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.
On average a pressure treated wood deck will cost between 15 to 25 per square foot including installation.
Some composites cost about twice as much as real wood depending on the varieties you compare.
Is composite decking better than wood.
The primary drawback to composite decking is arguably the higher price tag.
Most popular and looks natural but also demands the most maintenance.
The average cost of composite decking ranges from 20 to 38 per square foot depending on the quality of materials.
Made to look like wood but can cost more.
The cost to install a composite deck is roughly double the cost of wood when you factor in the higher materials cost plus labor.
The labor price to install a composite or wood deck ranges from 9 to 12 per square foot.
Compare wood vs composite deck cost quick summary.
Can vary depending on seasonal availability.
4 13 per square foot for the boards.
A cedar wood deck will cost 30 or more per square foot a composite deck will cost 30 to 45 per square foot installed.
As with real wood composite decking varies in price depending on the quality and type you choose.
Costs as much as composite but lasts longer with less upkeep.
The long term cost of maintenance on a wood deck should be factored in with the initial cost of the material.
At 30 45 per square foot for installation the costs can rack up fast when compared to 15 25 for natural wood.
If your budget for installing a deck is limited you may choose to.
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.
However it does tend to be more expensive than real wood when it comes to your initial cost.