Decking has come a long way over the years, moving past standard lumber into modern composite and synthetic options. Today, choosing material is all about matching your lifestyle with the unique demands of your outdoor space. While looks drive many decisions, the best fit ultimately comes down to your local climate, budget, and how much upkeep you want to tackle.
WoodMart carries several decking options to fit different priorities and budgets. In this guide, we’ll break down four of the most common materials and what to consider before choosing one.
Pressure-Treated Wood Decking
Wood remains a classic choice for its natural grain and traditional deck appearance. Pressure-treated lumber is commonly used for decking and gives homeowners flexibility with stain colors and finishes.
Why homeowners choose wood:
- Authentic, natural real-wood grain and aesthetic
- Lower upfront cost than many manufactured decking products
- Wide availability and finish options
- Stain colors can be changed
- Simple to cut with standard tools
What to consider:
- Requires regular sanding, staining, and sealing
- Prone to splintering, warping, and cupping as the wood dries and expands
- Weather exposure changes the appearance over time
- Vulnerable to rot, mold growth, and wood-boring insect infestations
- Shorter overall lifespan compared to synthetic and composite alternatives
- Maintenance costs continue throughout the life of the deck
Composite Decking
Composite decking blends wood fibers and synthetic materials. Many product lines also include a protective outer layer for added durability.
We carry composite decking from brands including TimberTech, MoistureShield, Fiberon, and Deckorators. Construction and performance vary across product lines, and we’ll help you find the collection that best suits your style and home.
Why homeowners choose composite:
- Eco-friendly build using recycled plastics and wood fibers
- No routine staining or sealing
- Resistance to fading and staining
- Consistent color and appearance
- Wide selection of wood-look finishes
- Lower maintenance than traditional wood
- Heavy, solid feel underfoot similar to traditional lumber without the risk of splinters
What to consider:
- Higher upfront cost than pressure-treated lumber
- Boards still require routine cleaning
- Contains wood fibers that can trap moisture and trigger mold if uncapped
- Absorbs heat in direct sunlight, becoming hot
- Prone to thermal expansion and contraction, which can cause sagging or gaps
- Surface scratches and deep gouges cannot be sanded out or easily repaired
- Appearance feels less natural to homeowners who prefer real wood
PVC Decking
PVC decking contains no wood fibers. Its synthetic construction provides high moisture resistance because the boards contain no organic material that absorbs water.
TimberTech Advanced PVC carries Cool Touch cap technology on select colors, keeping boards up to 30 degrees cooler than standard composite in direct sun. The line carries a 50-year fade and stain warranty and a Class A flame-spread rating.
Fiberon PVC Paramount and Promenade Decking are certified for freshwater, saltwater, and chlorinated water exposure, so docks and pool stairs are common uses. Both lines also carry a Class A flame spread rating.
Why homeowners choose PVC:
- Offers realistic wood looks
- Features a protective cap layer
- Moisture- and insect-proof with zero organic fillers
- Zero sanding, staining, or sealing required
- Splinter-free surface safe for barefoot walking and pets
- Fire resistance
- Low-maintenance surface
- Options for direct ground contact and full/partial water submersion
- Heat-bendable for custom curved deck designs
What to consider:
- Higher upfront price than many wood and composite options
- Subject to thermal movement, causing boards to expand and contract with temperature shifts when not installed properly
- Synthetic appearance does not appeal to everyone
- Rubber mats, aerosol propellants, and DEET-based bug sprays can permanently stain or degrade the surface finish
- Synthetic composition creates a plastic-like appearance and a hollow sound
Mineral-Based Composite Decking
Mineral-based composite decking uses a different construction than traditional composite boards. Deckorators offers mineral-based options made with its patented Surestone technology, which combines polypropylene with mineral-based fillers instead of organic wood fibers.
The material is made for outdoor exposure and absorbs no moisture.
Why homeowners choose mineral-based composite:
- No moisture absorption
- Near-zero thermal expansion to prevent board movement
- Resistance to rot and water damage
- No routine staining or sealing
- Superior slip resistance and heat dissipation in full sun
- Fully submersible and can be installed in the ground or water
- Barefoot friendly
- Low maintenance
What to consider:
- Material cost runs highest among the four categories
- Fewer color and finish options than traditional composite
- Availability depends on specific brands and collections
- Manufactured appearance differs from natural lumber
What Affects Your Decking Choice?
Your environment and routine can quickly narrow the list of decking options. Start with the conditions around your home and how you plan to use the space.
Sun Exposure
Sun exposure affects how decking looks and feels throughout the day. Darker boards generally absorb more heat than lighter shades. Homeowners with decks that get a lot of direct sunlight often look for lighter colors or products made to reduce heat buildup.
Looking at samples outdoors can help you compare colors in natural light and see how they pair with your home’s exterior. Stop by our showroom to pick up samples and take a few options home to compare.
Moisture and Weather Exposure
Rain is only one source of moisture around a deck. Dew, high humidity, shade, nearby plants, pool water, and snow all affect how long the surface stays damp.
Poor airflow can slow dry time, especially near trees or in areas close to the ground. Repeated exposure to moisture can affect how a material performs over time. Pay close attention to how often the area stays damp throughout the year when you compare material options.
Upkeep
Maintenance is one of the biggest differences between decking materials.
Wood typically costs less upfront but requires staining, sealing, and regular upkeep. Manufactured decking usually costs more upfront but eliminates much of the refinishing work. Your preference for ongoing maintenance can narrow the options pretty quickly.
How You Use the Space
Daily use also influences which material fits best. Pets, kids, entertaining, and outdoor furniture put wear on a deck in different ways.
Looking at how the space fits into your everyday routine gives you a better basis for comparing materials beyond color and price.
Compare Decking Materials at WoodMart
At the end of the day, there is no single “best” decking material for every project. The right choice depends on how you plan to use your space and how much time you want to spend on maintenance over the years. Taking time to weigh upfront costs against long-term performance will ensure you build a deck you love coming home to.
Stop by to see us and explore decking materials in person, and start planning your project!