Building a deck is a major investment that adds living space, curb appeal, and real estate value to your home. The material you choose will determine how the deck looks, how long it lasts, how much maintenance it needs, and what it costs upfront. Here's an honest breakdown of the most popular options.
Pressure-Treated Lumber
Pressure-treated (PT) pine is the most common decking material for one reason: it's the most affordable. The wood is chemically treated to resist rot and insects, making it suitable for ground contact and outdoor exposure.
- ›Cost: $15–$25 per square foot installed
- ›Lifespan: 10–15 years with regular maintenance
- ›Maintenance: Must be sealed or stained every 2–3 years
- ›Appearance: Classic wood look; can warp or crack over time
- ›Best for: Budget-conscious projects, decks that will be painted or stained
Cedar and Redwood
Natural cedar and redwood are a step up from pressure-treated lumber. They're naturally resistant to rot and insects without chemical treatment, and they have a beautiful, warm appearance. They're also lighter and easier to work with than PT lumber.
- ›Cost: $25–$35 per square foot installed
- ›Lifespan: 15–20 years with proper care
- ›Maintenance: Needs sealing every 1–2 years to maintain color
- ›Appearance: Rich, natural grain — ages to a silver-gray if left unsealed
- ›Best for: Homeowners who want a natural look and are willing to maintain it
Cedar tip: If you love the silvery driftwood look that cedar develops when left untreated, you can skip the staining. The color change is purely cosmetic and doesn't affect the wood's durability.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic. It's engineered to look like wood while requiring far less maintenance. Brands like Trex, TimberTech, and Fiberon dominate this category.
- ›Cost: $35–$60 per square foot installed
- ›Lifespan: 25–30 years
- ›Maintenance: Minimal — annual cleaning, no staining or sealing required
- ›Appearance: Looks very close to wood; many colors and grain patterns available
- ›Best for: Homeowners who want low maintenance and a long-term investment
PVC Decking
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking is made entirely from plastic, with no wood content. It's the most moisture-resistant option available and won't rot, warp, or splinter under any circumstances.
- ›Cost: $45–$70 per square foot installed
- ›Lifespan: 30+ years
- ›Maintenance: Lowest of any material — just soap and water
- ›Appearance: Very realistic wood look in premium lines; can feel hollow underfoot
- ›Best for: Pool decks, docks, or any area with constant moisture exposure
Which Material Is Right for You?
Here's a simple way to decide: if upfront cost is the priority, go with pressure-treated lumber. If low maintenance is the priority and you can handle a higher upfront cost, composite is the sweet spot for most homeowners. If you have significant moisture exposure or want the absolute longest lifespan, PVC is the way to go.
We build decks with all of these materials and can help you weigh the options for your specific situation. Contact us for a free estimate and material consultation.