Material guides
Choosing your decking material
The surface you pick sets your budget, maintenance routine and how the deck looks and feels for years. Here's how the main options compare.
| Material | Upfront cost | Maintenance | Look & feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Composite Decking | Moderate to high | Low — periodic washing | Wood-grain look, warmer in sun | Low-maintenance family decks |
| Pressure-Treated Wood | Lowest | High — clean and refinish regularly | Natural wood; weathers to gray | Budget-focused decks and all framing |
| Cedar Decking | Moderate | Moderate to high — finish to keep color | Soft, warm, aromatic | Natural wood appearance with less warping |
| PVC Decking | High | Low — periodic washing | Lightweight, smooth to textured | Pools, wet areas and low decks |
Moderate to high upfront
Composite Decking
Composite boards combine wood fiber and plastic. Most modern boards are capped with a polymer shell that improves stain, fade and moisture resistance.
Lowest upfront
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pressure-treated lumber — usually southern yellow pine or other softwoods — is infused with preservatives that resist rot and insects. It's the most common material for deck framing and an economical decking surface.
Moderate upfront
Cedar Decking
Cedar is a naturally attractive softwood prized for its warm color, straight grain and dimensional stability. Its heartwood contains natural compounds that help it resist decay and insects.
High upfront
PVC Decking
PVC (cellular polyvinyl chloride) decking contains no wood. It doesn't absorb moisture, is lighter than composite and is a popular choice around pools and in damp, shaded locations.
FAQs
Material questions
What is the lowest-maintenance decking?
PVC and capped composite need the least upkeep — periodic washing, no staining or sealing. Wood decks need regular cleaning and refinishing.
What is the most affordable decking material?
Pressure-treated pine typically has the lowest upfront material cost. Over the life of the deck, maintenance costs narrow the gap with composite.
Is the deck frame made from the same material as the boards?
Usually not. Even composite and PVC decks are typically framed with pressure-treated lumber, so the framing needs to be built and protected to last as long as the surface.
Materials
Want help choosing?
Call (888) 555-0123 to talk with a deck specialist about your project.