Guide

Composite vs Wood Decks: Which Is Right for You?

Cost, upkeep, look and lifespan of composite, pressure-treated and cedar decks, compared for Ontario homeowners.

The choice between composite and wood usually comes down to three things: what you want to spend now, how much upkeep you're willing to do, and how long you plan to stay in the home.

What matters	Composite	Pressure-treated	Cedar
Upfront cost	Highest	Lowest	Middle
Upkeep	Wash each season	Seal or stain every 2 to 3 years	Seal every 2 to 3 years to keep colour
Splinters	No	Can splinter as it ages	Can splinter
Heat in sun	Dark colours get hot	Stays cooler	Stays cooler
Framing	Tighter joist spacing	Standard	Standard
Repairs	Replace boards with matching product	Easy to patch	Easy to patch

Choose composite if

You don't want to stain or seal a deck again
You plan to stay in the home for years
You want an even colour that holds up
Kids and bare feet use the deck a lot

Choose wood if

Budget is the priority right now
You like a natural wood look and don't mind upkeep
The deck is small, low or temporary
You may change the yard in a few years

The part most people miss

Composite boards usually need joists closer together than wood decking. Putting composite on an old wood deck frame without checking spacing can lead to sagging boards and void the board warranty. Either way, the footings and frame decide how long the deck lasts.

More detail: composite decks, pressure-treated decks and cedar decks.

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