Composite vs Wood Deck Cost

Choosing decking is rarely just about looks. It is a 10–25 year money and maintenance decision. Here is how composite and wood compare in 2026.

Quick comparison

Example on a 320 sq ft deck (national baseline):

• Wood: roughly $7,700 – $11,500
• Composite: roughly $13,400 – $19,800
• Ipe: roughly $20,800 – $30,400

Run your exact size in the deck construction calculator.

Composite: higher upfront, lower yearly work

Pros

• Resists rot, insects, and fading better than untreated softwoods
• Hidden fasteners and consistent board color
• Stronger resale story for "low maintenance outdoor living"

Cons

• Higher material cost
• Can get hot in full sun (lighter colors help)
• Quality varies by brand and cap thickness — cheap composite can scratch and stain

Wood: lower install price, ongoing upkeep

Pros

• Lowest installed cost for a solid, code-built deck
• Easy to repair individual boards
• Familiar look many homeowners prefer

Cons

• Annual or biannual staining/sealing
• Splinters, warping, and fastener pop over time
• Shorter service life if maintenance slips

Which should you choose?

Choose composite if you plan to stay 7+ years, hate yearly staining, or want a cleaner long-term cost of ownership.

Choose wood if you need the lowest cash outlay now, are comfortable with maintenance, or may sell within a few years and want to minimize capital spent.

Choose Ipe / premium hardwood only if the aesthetic and longevity justify nearly double a mid-range composite budget.

Cost items both options share

Do not forget the parts that are identical either way:

• Concrete pier footings below frost depth
• Pressure-treated framing and ledger flashing
• Code-compliant railings and stairs
• Building permit and inspection

A "board-only" quote that skips footings, railings, or permits is not a real deck price.

Bottom line

Composite usually costs 40–80% more to install than pressure-treated wood, but can cost less over 15 years once you count stain, repairs, and earlier replacement. Price both options with the same framing and railing scope, then decide on maintenance tolerance — not just the headline total.