Composite and treated wood decks have both their benefits and setbacks. Learn which type of decking is the right choice for you.

Composite - Pros

• Composite decking materials are eco-friendly and toxin-free.
  Composite decking is made from recycled plastic, lumber mills scraps and other materials. Using these materials, more than 50,000 tons of waste are prevented from ending up in landfills each year.
• Composite decking is safer.
  Composite decks are splinter-free and slip-resistant, making homes safer for children and pets.
• Composite decking costs less over its lifetime than wood and lasts longer, too.
  On average, maintaining a wood deck will cost $150 - $450 per year. Composite decking? Just $5-$15
• Composite decking requires less maintenance than wood decking.
  Wood decks can require up to 32 hours of maintenance a year; composite decks only require up to four hours
• Composite decking looks like natural wood.
  Today’s composite decks reflect the real beauty of natural and exotic hardwoods, complete with subtle streaking and varied wood-grain patterns.

Composite – Cons

• Higher upfront price.
  Composite products cost upwards of 100 to 300 per cent more than standard treated lumber. Additionally, the higher expense will not be reflected in
  your return on investment.
• More challenging installation.
  The heavier weight of composite makes it more difficult to build, and it might not be as supportive as a wood deck.
• Composite is hotter than its wood counterparts.
  The plastic elements absorb more of the summer sun, which can be less enjoyable, especially if people are walking barefoot on it.
• Colours are permanent.
  Composite decking is permanently coloured to avoid and reduce maintenance, so it can’t be re-painted if you’re feeling the need for a change.

Treated Wood – Pros

• Cheaper installation
  Usually, wood decking has a lower upfront cost than composites. Composite decking typically starts around $2.30 per linear foot (based on a typical
  1”x6” x 12’ deck board), whereas a (brown) treated wood deck board starts around $0.80 per linear foot.
• Easier to build.
  Treated wood can be ripped and routed and requires less materials.
• Classic and elegant appearance.
  Nothing beats the look of wood with its natural grains and plethora of staining options.
• Wood is easily updated.
  Wood can be repainted any colour one desires and is easily repaired.
• Durability.

Treated Wood – Cons

• Wood requires more routine maintenance than composite.
  Splinters, fading and rot are common issues that come with treated wood decks if not properly maintained.
• Since it is a natural product, wood is more costly to maintain than composite.
  With the extra maintenance of wood, the upkeep costs associated with it can add up. A typical wood deck usually requires staining every 2 - 3 years.
  The average cost of staining a deck ranges from $0.50 - $2.50 per square foot.

Visit your local Co-op Home Centre for a variety of composite and treated wood decking style options.