Should I consider a composite deck or stick with wood?

Dear Contractors.com,

I just moved into a new home, and I'd like to get a new deck put in. My question is, should I go with wood or should I consider one of the no-maintenance composite decks? I do like the sound of no maintenance, but does it look good, and is it worth the extra money?

– C.C., Alexandria, VA

“Unfortunately, there is no right or wrong answer. There are many things you need to consider to determine the right choice for you,” advises Donna Wray, owner of Alpine Fence & Deck.

“One of the first things to consider when deciding on decking materials is how long you intend to live in the house. If it’s less than five years you won’t recoup the extra cost of composite. So if cost is an issue you might not want to consider a low-maintenance alternative,” Wray explains.

“If you plan to be in the home for more than five years, then a composite might make more sense,” Wray advises. “Some of the advantages of composite decks are that they have been formulated to try to resist mold, mildew and fading, and they look surprisingly like real wood. They also don’t need to be painted or stained every few years like wood does,” explains Wray, whose installers have over 15 years of experience.

However, most people go with wood because it’s cheaper and they can get a much larger deck for the initial investment. Whereas composite will run you about $28 to $40+ dollars per square foot, pressure-treated wood ranges from $20 to $35.

“A lot of people still like the look and feel of wood,” says Wray, “but wood is a natural product and requires routine maintenance to endure the elements. Most clear or natural colored stains need to be applied annually, while some of the premium stains and paints will last two to five years. But even with the best stains and maintenance, over time a wood deck will split and splinter.”

Whichever materials you prefer, Wray, whose woman-owned company is a member of the Better Business Bureau, suggests that if you’re part of a homeowner’s association you should check with them to see if there are any restrictions for materials used, including colors of paints and stains.