LumberCalcs: The Straight-Grain Figures for the Hand-Hewn Builder
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Composite Decking

For minimal maintenance and long-term durability -- higher upfront cost, little to no sealing or staining needed.

Runner-up: Cedar Decking · Retake the quiz

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Why this fits you

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  • You want to avoid staining and sealing entirely.
  • Long-term durability and consistent appearance matter more than upfront cost.
  • You\'re comfortable with composite\'s different look and feel compared to real wood.
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Composite decking, made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, resists rot, splintering, and fading far better than any wood decking option, requiring essentially no staining or sealing beyond occasional washing. It costs significantly more upfront than PT or cedar decking, but many owners find the maintenance savings worthwhile over the deck\'s lifetime. Quality and appearance vary meaningfully between composite brands and price tiers.

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How it compares

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OptionBest forMaintenanceCost
Pressure-Treated Wood DeckingBudget-conscious deckingAnnual/biannual sealing recommended$
Cedar DeckingNatural look, moderate durabilityPeriodic sealing for color retention$$
Composite DeckingLow maintenance, long-term durabilityOccasional washing only$$$
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Buying checklist

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  • Compare warranties and fade/stain resistance between composite brands -- quality varies significantly at different price points
  • Composite can get hotter underfoot in direct sun than wood -- check the specific product\'s heat performance if that matters to you
  • Confirm the substructure (joists, framing) still needs to be built to code regardless of decking material choice
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Run the numbers

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Deck Board CalculatorHeader & Beam Load Calculator
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Frequently asked questions

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Is composite decking maintenance-free?

Nearly -- it doesn\'t need staining or sealing like wood, though occasional washing to remove dirt, mildew, or debris keeps it looking its best.

Does composite decking get hot in the sun?

Some composite products can get noticeably hotter underfoot than wood in direct summer sun -- checking a specific product\'s heat performance rating is worth doing if you walk barefoot on your deck often.

Is composite decking worth the higher upfront cost?

That depends on your priorities -- composite\'s minimal maintenance and long lifespan can offset its higher upfront cost over many years, but PT or cedar decking costs meaningfully less to install initially.

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Other Deck Board Material Finder results

Pressure-Treated Wood DeckingCedar Decking
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