Pressure-treated wood costs less upfront. Composite costs less over time. A 20-year total cost of ownership analysis by climate zone, with maintenance costs included.
For a 400 sq ft deck, pressure-treated pine runs $8,000–$16,000 installed nationally. Capped composite (Trex, TimberTech, Azek) runs $16,000–$32,000 for the same size. The 2× upfront cost difference drives most homeowners toward wood — but the 20-year cost comparison tells a different story when maintenance costs and replacement timing are factored in.
20-year TCO calculated for a standardized 400 sq ft deck in five climate zones. Wood maintenance costs include: annual cleaning ($120–$200), biennial sealing/staining ($280–$480), periodic board replacement (estimated at 15% of boards by year 12 in hot/humid climates, 8% in cold climates), and full replacement cost prorated based on expected lifespan. Composite maintenance costs: annual cleaning only ($80–$150). No full replacement within 20-year analysis window.
| Climate Zone | PT Wood (20yr TCO) | Composite (20yr TCO) | Composite Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hot/Humid (Houston, Miami, Tampa) | $22,000–$36,000 | $19,000–$33,000 | Composite wins by $3K avg |
| Desert (Phoenix, Las Vegas, Tucson) | $20,000–$33,000 | $17,500–$31,000 | Composite wins by $2K avg |
| Wet/Cool (Seattle, Portland, Boston) | $21,000–$34,000 | $20,000–$34,000 | Near parity; composite wins on aesthetics |
| Cold (Chicago, Minneapolis, Denver) | $18,000–$30,000 | $19,000–$32,000 | Wood wins slightly in cold climates |
| Moderate (Atlanta, Nashville, Dallas) | $19,000–$31,000 | $18,500–$31,000 | Near parity; lifestyle preference drives choice |
| Material | Cold Climate | Moderate | Hot/Humid | Desert |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated pine | 20–25 years | 18–22 years | 12–18 years | 10–15 years |
| Cedar (untreated) | 20–28 years | 20–28 years | 15–22 years | 12–18 years |
| Composite (uncapped) | 15–20 years | 15–20 years | 12–18 years | 10–15 years |
| Composite (capped PVC) | 25–30 years | 25–30 years | 25–30 years | 22–28 years |
| Ipe (tropical hardwood) | 25–35 years | 30–40 years | 30–40 years | 25–35 years |
| Aluminum decking | 40+ years | 40+ years | 40+ years | 40+ years |
Wood deck maintenance is consistently underestimated at point of purchase. Industry surveys show 65% of homeowners who chose wood reported spending more on maintenance than expected. The annual routine for a well-maintained wood deck: pressure washing ($120–$180 DIY, $250–$400 professional), followed by stain/sealer application every 2 years ($280–$480 for materials and labor on a 400 sq ft deck). Over 20 years, this maintenance spend typically totals $3,800–$7,200 — nearly the full cost of a basic composite deck replacement on its own.
In hot/humid and desert climates: yes, clearly — lower TCO over 20 years and dramatically less maintenance effort. In cold climates: it's close, with composite winning on convenience and wood winning slightly on 20-year TCO. In all climates, composite wins on consistent aesthetics — wood decks require staining to maintain appearance while composite retains its original look with minimal effort.
Uncapped composite is a wood-polymer blend with no protective outer shell. It absorbs moisture, stains, and is susceptible to mold in humid climates. Capped composite wraps the wood-polymer core in a protective PVC shell that repels moisture, stains, and UV damage. The lifespan difference is significant: 12–20 years uncapped vs. 25–30 years capped. Only capped composite products (Trex Transcend, TimberTech Azek, Fiberon Paramount) should be considered in climates with significant moisture or UV exposure.
Composite decking commands a modest resale premium over wood — typically 3–5% higher home value contribution — primarily because buyers perceive it as lower maintenance. The premium is most recognized in markets where outdoor living space is highly valued (Pacific Northwest, Southeast, Mountain West resort communities).
Compare wood and composite deck costs for your specific city.
Explore Deck Guides →