When it comes to building a deck, the material you choose can have a significant impact on its longevity, maintenance requirements, and overall appearance. Wood and composite decking are two of the most popular choices, each with its own unique advantages and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each and help you determine which is the right choice for your needs.

Wood decking is a traditional and popular choice for building decks. It’s made from natural wood, which gives it a warm, organic look and feel. There are several types of wood that are commonly used for decking, including cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine.

One of the main advantages of wooden decking is its natural appearance. The warmth and beauty of natural wood cannot be replicated with composite materials. Wood also has a pleasant scent and texture that many people find appealing.

Another benefit of wood decking is that it’s relatively easy to work with. Wood can be cut, drilled, and shaped with standard tools, making it a good choice for DIY projects.

Wood decking is also generally more affordable than composite decking, especially if you’re using pressure-treated pine. This makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

However, one of the downsides of wood decking is that it requires maintenance to keep it looking its best. Wood needs to be cleaned, sealed, and stained or painted regularly to prevent it from warping, splitting, and rotting.

Wood decking is also more prone to warping, splitting, and rotting than composite decking. This can happen if the wood is exposed to moisture or changes in temperature, which is common in outdoor environments.

Composite decking is a relatively new alternative to wood decking. It’s made from a combination of wood fibres and plastic, giving it a more uniform appearance and is more durable than natural wood.

Look for a deck builder with a proven track record of success, experience, and credentials in deck construction. Check their portfolio, references, and certifications to verify their skills, knowledge, and professionalism. Ask about their previous projects and their approach to design, materials, and construction.

One of the main advantages of composite decking is that it’s low maintenance. Unlike wood decking, composite decking doesn’t need to be sealed or stained regularly. It can be cleaned with soap and water and will not rot, warp, or split.

Composite decking is also more durable than natural wood. It’s resistant to moisture, insects, and UV rays, which means it will last longer and require less maintenance over time.

Composite decking is also resistant to fading and staining, which can be a problem with natural wood. This makes it a good choice for areas with high sun exposure or heavy foot traffic.

However, one of the drawbacks of composite decking is that it can be more expensive than wood decking, especially if you’re opting for high-end materials. This can make it less accessible for homeowners on a tight budget.

The cost of composite decking per square foot is higher than that of wood decking. However, composite decking may save money over time because it lasts longer, looks better, and requires less maintenance than wood decking.

Composite decking is also criticized for having an artificial appearance. While some brands have made great strides in replicating the look and feel of natural wood, others can still have a plastic-like appearance.

When choosing between wood and composite decking, it’s important to consider several factors, including appearance, cost, maintenance, and durability.

As mentioned earlier, wood decking has a natural appearance that many homeowners find appealing. However, composite decking has come a long way in terms of replicating the look and feel of natural wood, with some brands offering a wide range of colors and textures.

Wood decking is generally more affordable than composite decking, especially if you’re using pressure-treated pine. However, if you opt for high-end wood materials or need to hire a professional for installation, the cost can quickly add up. Composite decking, on the other hand, can be more expensive upfront, but it requires less maintenance over time, which can save you money in the long run.

Wood decking requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best, while composite decking is virtually maintenance-free. However, some homeowners prefer the natural look and feel of wood and don’t mind putting in the extra effort to keep it in good condition.

Composite decking is generally more durable than wood decking, as it’s resistant to moisture, insects, and UV rays. However, wood decking can last a long time if it’s properly maintained and protected from the elements.

When deciding between wood and composite decking, there are several factors to consider, including:

If you’re on a tight budget, wood decking may be the better choice, as it’s generally more affordable than composite decking.

If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or extreme heat, composite decking may be the better choice, as it’s more resistant to moisture and UV rays.

If you prefer the natural look and feel of wood, then wood decking may be the better choice for you. However, if you want a more uniform appearance and a wider range of colour options, then composite decking may be the better choice.

If you don’t want to spend a lot of time maintaining your deck, then composite decking may be the better choice, as it requires very little maintenance. However, if you enjoy working with wood and don’t mind putting in the extra effort to keep it in good condition, then wood decking may be the better choice.

In conclusion, both wood and composite decking have their own unique advantages and drawbacks. When choosing between the two, it’s important to consider your budget, climate, aesthetic preferences, and maintenance preferences. Ultimately, the right choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

SONCE HOMES is your local deck contractor and deck builder in York Region and Greater Toronto Areas, that specializes in the construction of wooden decks and composite decks for your home’s backyard.
If you are looking for a trusted deck builder in Holland Landing, Aurora, Newmarket, or surrounding areas, Contact SONCE HOMES today.

Is composite decking more expensive than wooden decking?

Composite decking can be more expensive than wooden decking, especially if you’re opting for high-end materials.

Does wood decking require more maintenance than composite decking?

Yes, wood decking requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best, while composite decking is virtually maintenance-free.

Is composite decking more durable than wood decking?

Yes, composite decking is generally more durable than wood decking, as it’s resistant to moisture, insects, and UV rays.

Can composite decking replicate the look and feel of natural wood?

Yes, many brands of composite decking have made great strides in replicating the look and feel of natural wood, with a wide range of colors and textures available.

Which is better for extreme weather conditions, wood or composite decking?

Composite decking is more resistant to moisture and UV rays, making it a better choice for areas with extreme weather conditions.

Building either a wood deck composite deck can be a significant investment, but it is worth it when done right. By working with a professional deck builder such as SONCE HOMES, you can have a well-designed, safe, and durable deck that enhances your home’s value and provides a comfortable space for outdoor activities. Remember to research and choose the right contractor for your project to ensure its success.

George Ossipov

2024-07-29

Serge built a new deck in our backyard, and the experience was completely positive. Serge proposed creative design ideas and executed them flawlessly. He actually went beyond what was expected and landscaped the surrounding area, which further enhanced the overall look and functionality. It was our pleasure to work with him, and we are very happy with the finished project.

Brandon Hexham

2024-04-05

Dealing with Serge and S.O.N.C.E Homes has been an absolute pleasure! Serge was able to come to our place, give us great advice, and execute the plan on time and budget. They were fantastic to deal with and I wouldn't hesitate in giving their name as a recommendation to anyone that I know looking for a great landscaping contractor....in fact, I have already provided their name to several friends and family.

Doreen Hiltz

2024-03-01

Professional, trustworthy, hardworking, skilled, perfectionist, artistic yet practical - all words to describe Serge as a contractor. He and his team recently gutted and renovated my forty-six year old bathroom with amazing results. Friends and visitors to my house all give it a "wow!" approval. I highly recommend Serge as a contractor.

Roland Maurice

2024-02-25

We reached out to Serge to redo 2 bathrooms and the transformation is incredible. Serge made the time to visit several shops to understand what we were looking for and his advice through the entire process was exactly what we needed to get the bathrooms of our dreams. Serge and his team were absolutely amazing throughout the entire process. You can truly tell that every member of his team love their job and it shows in their great work. I highly recommend Serge and his team.

Joanne Coles

We hired Serge and SONCE Homes to renovate 2 bathrooms in our home. We are absolutely thrilled with the results. It is clear that Serge is a high quality service provider in his field and so much more. He designs thoughtfully, with the client needs in mind. He takes pride of ownership in his work, and puts in what it takes to ensure the job is done to his high standards. Further, Serge communicates great advice and provides creative options and recommendations to consider at every step in the process. Highly recommend Serge and the team from SONCE Homes.

Alexander Zetzl

SONCE homes completed some work for me earlier this year as part of a home renovation. Pricing was straight forward and any options or extras were clearly laid out. Unlike so many other contractors, they actually finished the entire job in a timely manner, including the tiniest details. I feel that I received solid value for my money, especially given the quality of the work. I am already in discussions for the next project. It was a pleasure working with the SONCE team, Thank you again!

Wilson Heights

2023-11-26

Very professional detail oriented and honest contractor . Serge is dedicated to quality in every step . Highly recommend to do projects with this company.

Alex Logvin

2023-10-30

My project in Holland Landing was done on time and within the planned budget. The quality of work was very good. Serge was working hard on it and we really appreciate his expertise!

Pavel Slavin

2023-10-20

Serge and his team just brought my dream kitchen to alive. Thank you, guys, for an amazing job!!! Definitely, I'll come back to you with my other projects.

jill anderson

2023-09-05

I had a small electrical problem and Serge took the time to send someone out to fix the problem immediately. Done quickly and satisfactory. If you can trust someone on the small things you know who to use on the bigger things.

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Wood Deck vs. Composite Deck: Which is Right for You?