Composite vs. Wood Deck: Cost Comparison
Pressure-treated wood is the cheapest deck to build. Composite costs more per square foot but skips the staining, sealing and board replacement that wood needs.
Short answer: Wood for upfront savings; composite for decades of low upkeep.
Installed cost
A 300 sq ft pressure-treated deck runs about $7,750 to $15,000. The same deck in composite runs about $12,250 to $22,500, and in PVC about $15,250 to $25,500.
| Option | Installed cost | Typical life |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | $7,750 to $15,000 | 10 to 20 years with upkeep |
| Cedar | $9,250 to $16,500 | 15 to 25 years with upkeep |
| Composite | $12,250 to $22,500 | 25 to 30 years |
| PVC | $15,250 to $25,500 | 30 years or more |
Maintenance over time
Wood decks need cleaning and staining or sealing every one to three years, plus occasional board replacement. Composite needs washing. Over 20 years the maintenance gap can be several thousand dollars in materials and labor, which is why composite often wins on lifetime cost despite the higher price.
Look and heat
Wood can be stained any color and repaired board by board. Composite has improved in appearance, but dark colors get hot in full sun and scratches are harder to hide. Note that even composite decks sit on a pressure-treated wood frame.
Which should you choose?
Choose wood if budget is tight, you enjoy maintaining it, or the deck is small. Choose composite if you want a low-upkeep deck you will use for decades.
Common questions
Is composite decking worth it?
For a deck you will keep 15 years or more, usually yes once maintenance is counted.
How much does composite cost per square foot?
Typically $40 to $70 per square foot installed, versus $25 to $45 for pressure-treated wood.
Does a deck need a permit?
Most attached or raised decks do. Check with your local building department.