Composite vs Wood Deck: What's Better For a Deck Floor?

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Homeowners interested in building a deck often find that one of their hardest choices is deciding between composite or wood deck materials. When it comes to initial costs, composite does cost more than standard wood. However, over a very short period of time, the cost of composite decking is much more attractive than wood decking.
Royal Deck Composite Vs Wooden Deck

Benefits of Composite Decking

Available in a variety of wood grains for a natural look
UV-resistant, so it does not fade and will not have to be stained every year or every other year to stay looking great
Has a potential life span of 50 years, with most composite suppliers providing a minimum of a 30-year guarantee on their product
Yearly maintenance costs are less than $50
Bi-annual cleaning with soap and water and a soft scrub brush is all that is necessary to keep the deck looking great
Does not require sanding, sealing, or staining – ever
Is weather resistant and does not rot, crack, or splinter from weather conditions
Is not susceptible to wood-destroying insects

Benefits of Wood Decking

A variety of woods are available to build a deck at a range of costs
A very cost-effective method for installing a deck on your home
Great choice for homeowners who want to refresh a deck area before selling their home
Can be sanded and refinished to restore its original appearance
Natural look and feel that many homeowners prefer

So, Which Material Is Recommended By Royal Deck?

Royal Deck believes that both types of deck material are great choices, but highly recommends the composite decks due to longevity and low maintenance cost. We encourage our clients to look at both materials’ benefits and then decide which best suits their needs.

For homeowners planning on long-term use of their deck and who prefer minimal maintenance, composite decking will be the best choice.

For homeowners who may not be in their homes for a long time or do not mind the maintenance necessary for wood decking, wood decking will be a good choice.

Still Not Sure Which Type of Decking to Use?

If you are still concerned about which decking material to use, we encourage you to speak with one of the knowledgeable reps at Royal Deck. Our reps will be able to answer all of your questions to make an informed decision about what type of material you would like for your deck.

Royal Deck has become a leading deck installation company across Illinois and Georgia by providing exceptional customer service, transparent quotations and billing, and superior work ethics and craftsmanship. We believe that every deck we build reflects our company, and we want that reflection to be amazing.

If you are ready to add an outdoor entertainment area to your home, resurface or repair your deck area, or enhance your current deck area, you are encouraged to contact Royal Deck. We will be happy to come and provide you with a detailed quote for your deck project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much more does composite decking cost upfront compared to wood?

Composite decking does cost more to install than wood initially. However, when you factor in the ongoing cost of staining, sealing, and repairs that wood requires, composite becomes the more affordable option within just a few years.

Does composite or wood decking add more value to a home?

Composite decking generally adds more resale value because buyers see it as a low-maintenance, long-lasting feature. Wood decks can also add value, but their appeal depends heavily on the condition they are in at the time of sale.

How does each material look after 10 or more years?

Wood decks require consistent staining and sealing to keep their appearance, and without that care they can fade and crack over time. Composite boards hold their color and texture much better with very little effort.

Is composite decking more environmentally friendly than wood?

Most composite boards are made from a high percentage of recycled materials, including reclaimed wood fibers and recycled plastic. This makes composite a strong choice for homeowners who want a sustainable option without sacrificing durability.