When planning a new deck, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is whether to go with traditional wood or opt for composite decking. Both have their strengths, but depending on your priorities—whether it’s durability, aesthetics, maintenance, or cost one may be a better fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Let’s break it down so you can make a confident, informed choice.
Durability: Built to Last
Wood has been the go-to material for decks for generations. It offers natural beauty and a classic feel, but it comes with a catch, wood is vulnerable to moisture, insects, rot, and warping over time. Even treated lumber needs regular sealing and can still succumb to the elements.
Composite decking, on the other hand, is engineered to withstand the harshest conditions. Made from a mix of recycled wood fibers and plastics, composite boards won’t rot, splinter, or attract termites. If you want something that holds up through years of rain, sun, and backyard barbecues, composite decking takes the edge on durability.
Maintenance: How Much Time Do You Have?
Ask yourself this: how much time do you want to spend maintaining your deck?
Wood requires seasonal attention, staining, sealing, and inspecting for rot or damage. For some homeowners, that’s part of the charm. For others, it’s a chore that never ends.
Composite decking is virtually maintenance-free. A simple soap-and-water rinse a couple of times a year is usually all it needs. No staining. No sanding. Just more time for relaxing.
Aesthetics: The Look You Love
There’s no denying the timeless appeal of real wood. Its warmth, grain, and natural imperfections create a unique, rustic charm. For purists or those in historic homes, nothing else quite compares.
That said, composite decking has come a long way. Today’s products closely mimic the look of wood and come in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes. Some brands even offer grain patterns and variegated tones that are nearly indistinguishable from the real thing. If you’re after a high-end look with less upkeep, composite could be your winner.
Cost: Short-Term vs Long-Term
At first glance, wood is often cheaper to install than composite decking. But there’s a catch, those maintenance costs add up. Between stains, sealants, repairs, and replacement boards, wood decks can become more expensive over time.
Composite decking has a higher upfront cost, but the long-term savings are significant. Fewer repairs, less maintenance, and a longer lifespan mean you’ll likely spend less overall in the coming years.
Ready to Decide?
Choosing the right decking material isn’t just about today, it’s about how you want to live tomorrow. Think about your lifestyle, your budget, and how much time you want to spend maintaining your outdoor space.
Still Unsure?
Let MPS help. We specialize in designing and installing decks that are built to last, whether you prefer the natural charm of wood or the modern performance of composite. Contact MPS today for a free consultation and let’s turn your backyard into your new favorite place.