What Is Composite Decking and Is It Right for Your Outdoor Space?

Have you ever considered composite decking for building the outdoor space of your dreams? Composite decking is made of natural and synthetic materials resembling wood, but composite lasts longer and requires less maintenance than wood. Learn all about composite decking, the cost, and whether it’s right for your project. 

What Is Composite Decking?

Composite decking is synthetic decking made of wood fiber, polymer, plastic, and chemical additives. Sometimes, it includes recycled materials. 

Manufacturers create composite deck boards through either extrusion or compression molding. The synthetic and wood parts are blended thoroughly to produce a dense core material. The ratio of natural wood to synthetic ingredients depends on the brand you choose. Most brands offer either a 50-to-50 wood-to-synthetic ratio or 70-to-30 wood-to-synthetic ratio. 

Composite decking lasts between 30 and 50 years and requires minimal maintenance. You’ll only need to deep clean your deck once a year and spot-clean spills. Some composite deck boards have an outer cap for extra protection from UV damage and the elements, increasing their longevity.

Composite Decking Pros and Cons

Composite decking is a great option for any deck size, shape, and height. Learn about more advantages and disadvantages of composite decking. 

Pros of Composite Decking

• Resistant to UV damage and fading

• Holds up in almost all weather conditions

• Moisture resistant

• Low maintenance

• Easy to clean 

• Doesn’t require sanding, staining, or sealing

• More durable and long-lasting than wood

• Doesn’t warp, split, or crack like natural wood does

• Saves money over time due to limited maintenance and repairs

• Available in many styles and colors that resemble wood

Cons of Composite Decking 

• Higher installation cost

• Can look artificial 

• Challenging to replace or repair parts

• Can experience mold if moisture builds up

• Dark colors can feel hot in the sun 

Types of Composite Decking

Composite decking ranges from basic designs to higher-quality options with more features. You can opt for a simple look or get more creative with colors and patterns. Most composite decking brands offer two to three tiers of decking products that range in price. 

Trex decking, for instance, has three types of composite decking that vary in thickness, durability, and cost. Many brands also offer add-ons to enhance the functionality of your outdoor spaces, like pergolas, lattices, and deck drainage systems. 

The most widely available composite decking brands include:

• Deckorators

• Fiberon

• MoistureShield

• TimberTech

• Trex

• WearDeck

• Wolf Home Products

Cost of Composite Decking

Composite decking prices range from $4 to $12 per square foot for materials only. It costs $25 to $54 per square foot for a pro to build a composite deck. As an example, building a 144-square-foot composite deck costs $5,700 on average.  

Basic composite decking costs less than high-end, extra-weather-resistant composite decking. Certain designs and colors cost more, too, such as those that look more like authentic wood. If you’re looking to save on your composite deck, try opting for standard colors and fewer added features.

When to Use Composite Decking

You can use composite decking for all types of decks: attached and detached decks, multi-tier decks, hot tub and pool decks, or side decks. You can also create custom composite decking, but you should hire a pro if you’re planning a deck with a unique shape.

Composite decking is a great choice for many homes, but it’s especially appealing for:

• People who don’t have as much time for deck maintenance

• People who prefer a more modern look over the classic look of natural wood

• People willing to spend more money upfront to avoid long-term maintenance costs

• People looking for a more durable deck material than wood 

Composite Decking vs. Wood Decking

What's the difference between composite decking and normal decking? 

Wood decking is made of cedar, treated lumber, or hardwoods like ipe, jatoba, and tigerwood. You can stain or paint a wood deck any color, making it easy to coordinate your deck with your home. Wood decking costs less upfront but requires more maintenance, including sanding, staining, and sealing every one to three years. Real wood is also more prone to moisture damage, rot, and discoloration. 

Composite decking lasts longer and requires less maintenance than wood decking. While it has a higher upfront cost than wood, the lower long-term maintenance costs of composite make up for it over time. Additionally, composite resists the elements better, giving you a like-new deck for longer. 

The best decking material for you depends on your budget, design preferences, and how much time you can devote to maintenance. Compare composite decking versus wood to see which is best for you. 

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Composite Deck?

A professional deck-building contractor costs $10 to $14 per square foot to build a composite deck. The larger and more complex your deck design, the more you’ll pay. For example, adding steps to your composite deck will cost you an additional $25 per square foot for labor alone.

Your labor costs will also increase if you must demolish an existing deck or level the land where your deck will be built. On top of the labor cost to build a deck, you’ll also need to factor in permit costs.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

You can install composite decking yourself only if you have solid carpentry skills. You’ll need to cut, level, and secure the pieces, meaning you need the right tools, including a circular saw and power drill. If you don’t have a base for your deck, you must install deck footings and a solid frame. Sound like a lot of work? That’s because it is.

Hiring a local deck builder is your best bet. A pro can ensure your composite deck is level, stable, up to code, and lasts 30 to 50 years. It’s better to hire a pro right off the bat than to make a mistake that ends up costing you a lot more in the long run.