Composite Decking vs. Treated Lumber: What's Best for You?

Composite Decking vs. Treated Lumber: What's Best for You?

Summer is here! Now is the perfect time for entertaining and creating an outdoor space for you and your guests to enjoy the weather. As you plan your dream deck, one of the key choices is selecting the best decking material for your lifestyle. The two most popular choices are treated wood or composite decking. Below, our professionals at 84 Lumber broke down and compared the two options, weighing the pros and cons to help you decide.  

Comparing Costs  

Treated lumber has been a popular choice among consumers for years. Best known for its lower upfront cost and strength, treated wood is an affordable decking option. The price of treated lumber also depends on the wood species chosen and local market conditions.    

One of the main drawbacks of composite decking when compared to treated lumber is the price. Though the initial cost will be higher than treated lumber, composite decking is made to last and requires little to no maintenance over the years. In the long run, because of its durability, composite may save you money over the years to come.   

Weather and Climate  

Weather plays a huge factor when deciding what material is best for your home. Rain and snow can seep into the lumber and cause cracking. Humidity can also cause issues as the moisture contents of the boards will increase, causing the wood to swell and create movement. Because treated wood is more susceptible to warping, rotting or splintering, regular maintenance like staining, sealing or painting will be necessary.   

Composite decking is known for its durability in extreme weather conditions and climates. Much less prone to wear and tear over the years, composite decking does not fade, resists damage from the elements and never needs sealing or painting. When choosing the right material for your deck, keep your town’s climate and seasonal weather in mind!   

Finishes and Style  

With composite decking growing in popularity, there are many brands to choose from! Some of the leading brands in the industry today include Trex, Azek, TimberTech, and Fiberon. Offering a variety of different styles and finishes, composite decking brands help you completely customize your deck. Some composite decking brands are even environmentally friendly, manufactured using high-quality recycled materials.   

Brands like the ones listed above can be ordered through your local 84 Lumber and offer a wide range of styles and finishes. Take a look at some of Trex’s range of colors!  

When it comes to style, don’t count treated lumber out! There are many types of wood to choose from that allow you to customize your deck while staying all-natural. More expensive exotic woods like Ipe and Cumaru are denser and are naturally insect- and rot-resistant. Cedar wood will cost more than traditional treated pine but provides a bright tone while also naturally insect- and rot-resistant.  

For more tips and insights on decking, follow 84 Lumber on social media! And when you’re ready to explore decking material options, we recommend reaching out to the experts at your local 84 Lumber. To find a store near you: https://www.84lumber.com/store-locator/