Composite vs. pressure-treated decking: which is worth it?
By the RenoRange team · Reviewed by [EXPERT NAME], [CREDENTIAL] · Updated 2026
When you build a deck, the material you choose is the single biggest factor in what it costs — and how much work it will be for the next 20 years. The two most common choices sit at opposite ends of that trade-off: pressure-treated lumber (cheap up front, more upkeep) and composite like Trex or TimberTech (more expensive up front, almost no upkeep).
Try it yourself: use our deck cost calculator for an itemized estimate based on your own project.
Up-front cost
Pressure-treated decking runs about $15–$25 per square foot installed. Composite runs roughly $30–$60 per square foot — often two to three times more. On a typical 300-square-foot deck, that can be a difference of several thousand dollars before you add railings and stairs.
Maintenance and lifespan
This is where the gap narrows. Pressure-treated wood needs cleaning and re-sealing or staining roughly every year or two to resist rot, warping, and splintering, and it typically lasts 15–20 years. Composite needs only an occasional rinse, resists fading and stains, and commonly lasts 25–30+ years. Over the full life of the deck, the maintenance time and cost of wood partly offsets its lower purchase price.
Look and feel
Modern composite has come a long way and mimics wood grain convincingly, with consistent color and no splinters — a real plus for bare feet and kids. Purists still prefer the look and feel of real wood, and cedar or hardwoods like Ipe offer a natural alternative at a higher price than pressure-treated.
Which should you choose?
Choose pressure-treated if up-front budget is the priority and you don’t mind annual upkeep. Choose composite if you want to spend more once and then essentially forget about maintenance for decades — especially if you plan to stay in the home long enough to enjoy the low-maintenance years.
Try it yourself: use our deck cost calculator for an itemized estimate based on your own project.