651-212-4221
Jul 31, 2014
|

Wood vs. Composite Deck: Which is Better for Your Home?

Lately on our WCCO radio show, we have had a lot of inquiries regarding decking; especially the hard decision whether to build one with wood or composite decking. Below, we have broken out the features and benefits of both, making your decision easier to decide which deck material option fits your maintenance level, lifestyle and budget!

Wood Decks

Wood decking has been around forever so with this choice you really can’t go wrong. The quality of your deck will depend greatly on the type of wood you choose. Southern Pine is a very popular choice because of its lower cost and availability. However, it can easily warp and requires more maintenance than higher end wood such as Cedar.

Cedar gives off an awesome smell and is readily available and will weather much better than pine. Cedar is probably the most popular choice of wood decking throughout the US. If you want to step it up a notch, mahogany or IPE (pronounced ee-pay) also known as Brazilian walnut. IPE is one of the densest hardwoods on the market and is three times harder than cedar. It also has the same fire rating as concrete and steel!

traditional wood decking

Wood decks are not that hard to maintain, but will require more elbow grease than composite decking. It is recommended to seal and stain your wooden deck every three years or so and that will directly relate to the quality of product you used to begin with. We recommend using PENOFIN®.

Composite Decks

Composite decking received a bad rap in recent years due to the product having many issues with warping in all different kinds of climates. Rest assured, composite decking has come a long way and is back with a vengeance in the deck building industry.

Composite decking consists of some type of plastic material and wood particles.  A lot of the time the plastic material is made of recycled by-products such as milk jugs and soda bottles. Some composite decking materials are hollow boards that are cheaper than solid ones and don’t tend to expand and contract as much as solid boards. Solid boards look more like real wood and are stronger than hollowed out boards.

composite decking on a multi-level deck

Factors that determine price include the manufacturer, materials used whether it is recycled, virgin etc. and also any extra features such as UV protection and scratch resistance.  Composite decking involves more upfront costs but will require significantly less maintenance than wood in the long-run.

Contact us today to get started on your home’s deck project.

Watch Our Craftsmen Install a New Deck

Recent Twin Cities’ Deck Projects:

Read Our Deck Installation Reviews:

"I just wanted to say how pleased I am with the finished deck projects.  Thomas, Chad and Logan are true craftsmen coming from a retired construction superintendent. They always took time to answer my questions and acted on behalf of Lindus Construction so professional.  It was a pleasure to have been in their company for the week they were here."

Bob W.
Danbury, WI
October 6, 2023

"The crew did an outstanding job with our new deck!  We are very happy with the work the team did, in the office and onsite."

Dave G.
New Hope, MN
August 20, 2023

"Lindus built a deck beyond my expectations. Dave and Triston were very professional. The upper-story deck they built is amazing and much better than the deck it replaced. I am grateful for their skill and hard work."

Carolyn M.
Apple Valley, MN
July 2, 2023

"The city Inspector had no complaints. I couldn't be happier and I would HIGHLY recommend Lindus for anyone wanting to put in a new deck or hire a company that has talented and professional workers that really care about you and the final product."

Donna K.
Bloomington, MN
June 26, 2023

"Our projects were like clockwork. From scheduling to delivery of materials and installation.....It could not have been better."

Ron D.
Glenwood City, WI
June 20, 2023

"We love our deck!!  Thank you Lindus Construction.  So appreciate you."

Sharon B.
Burnsville, MN
June 14, 2023
Contact Us To Schedule A Complimentary Estimate. Receive A Heat Map Analysis With Insulation Estimates Through March 31st.
Some restrictions may apply. Call for details.