Composite Decking (Wood-Alternative)
Composite decking isn’t wood at all – it’s a man-made blend of wood fibers and plastic (and sometimes other additives) that aims to give the appearance of wood without the high maintenance. Popular brands include Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon, and others, each offering boards in a variety of colors and grain textures. Composites have been around for decades now, and newer generations have improved in look and performance. We include composite here because many homeowners weigh it as an alternative alongside real wood. High-quality composite boards can mimic the look of wood surprisingly well, and they offer superior resistance to moisture and decay since there’s plastic in the mix.
Pros: The number one reason people choose composites is low maintenance. Unlike real wood, composites never need to be sanded, stained, or sealed during their life – an occasional wash (with hose or mild soap) is usually all that’s needed to keep them looking good. They also handle the elements very well: composites won’t rot, splinter, or get eaten by insects, thanks to the plastic content and protective capping on many boards. This makes them ideal for damp climates – you don’t have to worry about boards warping from rain or growing mold internally (though mold can still grow on the surface grime if not cleaned). In snowy climates, composite decks tolerate snow and ice nicely – you can shovel them and even use calcium chloride or rock salt for de-icing without harming the material. Composites are often warrantied for 25 years or more by manufacturers against staining, fading, and structural defects, giving homeowners peace of mind about longevity. Aesthetically, newer composite lines have improved coloring and embossed grain patterns that provide an “authentic wood” look in many styles and hues – from rustic weathered gray to exotic hardwood tones. They also come in consistent dimensions and quality (no knots or warped boards), which means a cleaner finished look. Many composites are made with a high percentage of recycled materials, like reclaimed sawdust and recycled plastic bags, which can make them appealing to eco-conscious folks (more on that in the sustainability section). Lastly, composites are often designed with concealed fastening systems for a sleek appearance (since you don’t need to face-screw them as often), and you’ll never get a splinter walking barefoot on a composite deck.
Cons: The primary drawback of composite decking is the higher upfront cost. Composite boards can cost as much as or more than premium hardwood – typically, they are in the top price tier of decking choices. However, remember that they save on future maintenance costs (we’ll compare that in the budget section). Another consideration is appearance vs. real wood: no matter how much composites simulate wood, a purist might notice the difference. Early-generation composites also had issues with fading, staining, or developing mold spots, though modern capped composites have largely mitigated these problems. In hot climates, composites can get quite hot in direct sun, especially darker colors. This means you might not want to walk barefoot on a composite deck during a scorching summer afternoon (some newer products or lighter colors try to address heat retention). Additionally, composites are heavier than wood and not as stiff – they may require closer joist spacing to avoid sagging, and the substructure might need to be built to specific specs. Finally, while composites are low maintenance, they’re not no maintenance: you’ll need to clean off debris to prevent mildew on the surface, and they can be prone to scratches or stains from things like grease (though many can be cleaned). Repairing a damaged composite board can be harder than wood (you can’t sand out a scratch; you might have to replace the whole board).
Best for: Homeowners who prioritize low-maintenance and longevity, and who are willing to invest more upfront. Composites are excellent in wet or humid climates (no rotting worries at all), and they hold up well in cold/snowy areas since they don’t absorb water (no frost damage). They’re also a solid choice for modern designs or families who want a smooth, barefoot-friendly surface with no splinters. If you dread the thought of regular staining and just want to enjoy your deck, composite decking is a very attractive option despite the higher initial cost. Just choose lighter colors or a brand that advertises cooler surface technology if you live in an extremely hot region.
(Note: There are also PVC decking boards (100% plastic, no wood content) which are similar to composites in maintenance and cost, and aluminum decking for specialized cases. But for this blog, we focused on the more common wood and wood-composite choices.)
