Wood vs Composite Decking: Complete Comparison Guide
Choosing between wood and composite decking is one of the biggest decisions in deck building. Both have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your priorities, budget, and lifestyle. As a supplier of both materials since 1885, we'll help you make an informed decision.
Serving Georgia & Surrounding Areas
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Three locations: Atlanta, Marietta & Lawrenceville
Also serving: Atlanta, Marietta, Lawrenceville, Gwinnett County, Cobb County, DeKalb County, Fulton County, Alpharetta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Decatur, Kennesaw
Quick Comparison at a Glance
| Factor | Pressure-Treated Wood | Composite Decking |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years | 25-50 years |
| Maintenance | Annual staining/sealing | Occasional cleaning |
| Warranty | Limited structural | 25-50 year comprehensive |
Pressure-Treated Wood Decking
Pressure-treated lumber remains the most popular decking material in America due to its affordability and natural wood appearance. At Randall Brothers, we stock premium Southern Yellow Pine that's pressure-treated for ground contact and above-ground applications.
✓Initial Cost: Most affordable decking option
✓Appearance: Natural wood grain that can be stained any color; ages to silver-gray if left untreated
✓Maintenance: Requires staining or sealing every 1-2 years; power washing annually
✓Durability: Can warp, crack, and splinter over time; susceptible to rot if not maintained
✓Installation: Easy to cut and fasten with standard woodworking tools; familiar to all contractors
✓Environmental: Treated with preservatives (ACQ or CA-C) that are EPA-approved; recyclable
Composite Decking Options
Composite decking has evolved significantly since its introduction. Modern capped composites like Trex, TimberTech, and AZEK offer realistic wood looks with superior performance.
✓Initial Cost: Higher upfront investment, but lower long-term cost
✓Appearance: Realistic wood grain patterns; multi-tonal colors; consistent appearance
✓Maintenance: No staining or sealing required; occasional soap and water cleaning
✓Durability: Won't rot, warp, crack, or splinter; resists insects; fade-resistant
✓Installation: Requires hidden fasteners or special screws; heavier than wood; some brands harder to cut
✓Environmental: Made from 95% recycled materials (Trex); very long lifespan reduces waste
Long-Term Value Comparison
While wood costs less upfront, the true cost includes maintenance over the deck's lifespan:
Over a 20-year period, composite often costs the same or less than wood when maintenance is factored in. Contact us for a custom quote on your specific project.
- Pressure-Treated Wood: Lower material cost, but requires annual staining/sealing, periodic board replacement, and more repairs over time
- Composite Decking: Higher material cost, but minimal maintenance expenses and typically no board replacement needed during warranty period
Over a 20-year period, composite often costs the same or less than wood when maintenance is factored in. Contact us for a custom quote on your specific project.
Best Applications for Each
Choose Pressure-Treated Wood If:
Choose Composite Decking If:
- Budget is your primary concern
- You enjoy DIY maintenance projects
- You want to stain a specific custom color
- The deck is a rental property or temporary structure
- You prefer the feel of real wood underfoot
Choose Composite Decking If:
- Low maintenance is a priority
- You want a long-term investment
- The deck will be in a high-moisture area (pool, lake)
- You want consistent appearance without annual work
- Environmental sustainability matters to you
Georgia Climate Considerations
Georgia's hot, humid climate impacts both materials:
For the Georgia climate, composite generally performs better long-term, but properly maintained wood decks can also last decades.
- Heat: Composite can get hotter underfoot in direct sun; lighter colors stay cooler; wood stays relatively cool
- Humidity: Wood expands/contracts with moisture changes; can lead to warping; composite is dimensionally stable
- Mold/Mildew: Both can grow mold on the surface in shaded, damp areas; composite is easier to clean and more resistant
- Insects: Termites can damage wood despite treatment; composite is not a food source for insects
For the Georgia climate, composite generally performs better long-term, but properly maintained wood decks can also last decades.
See Both Options at Our Showrooms
The best way to decide is to see and feel both materials. Visit any of our three Georgia locations:
We stock pressure-treated lumber, Trex, TimberTech, AZEK, and other decking options. Our experts can show you samples and help you calculate costs for your specific project.
- Atlanta: 3151 Elizabeth Lane SE - (404) 892-6666
- Marietta: 2009 Dorsey Road - (770) 427-9770
- Lawrenceville: 175 Buford Drive - (770) 995-3900
We stock pressure-treated lumber, Trex, TimberTech, AZEK, and other decking options. Our experts can show you samples and help you calculate costs for your specific project.
Still Deciding? Let Us Help
Visit any Randall Brothers location to compare wood and composite samples side by side. Our deck experts can help you weigh the options for your specific project and budget.