How Much Does Composite Decking Really Cost?
Many homeowners struggle with trying to justify the cost of composite decking. Averaging between $3.50 and $5.00 per linear foot, the cost of installing a high-quality composite deck will certainly be higher than building with traditional pressure treated lumber, which can cost between $1.00 and $2.00 per linear foot1. However, simply comparing the material and installation costs alone doesn’t tell the whole story.
The average deck size is usually around 400 square feet. If we assume a 20’ x 20’ deck, then a rough estimate for pressure treated wood would be around $3,000, whereas the same deck built with a high-quality composite material might cost around $5,6001.
However, after just two to three years of routine maintenance, that cost difference is easily erased. While no one wants to spend more for something than they may have to, there are several other components that contribute to the total cost of purchasing any product. It’s in these “hidden costs” that buying a higher priced — yet higher quality — item starts to make sense.
Take the Long View
So why would someone spend more on composite decking when they can get the same outcome using pressure treated wood for considerably less? Well, it really comes down to two things: comparing the long-term value (LTV) and the total cost of ownership (TCO) of both purchases. Essentially, LTV and TCO measure the total amount of time and money that someone will spend on something while they own it. The same principles can be applied to comparing the cost of composite decking with pressure treated wood.
Initially, the cost of installing a pressure treated wood deck will be lower. However, in order to keep the wood deck looking and performing as it should, it will need constant attention and maintenance. There definitely is a cost associated with completing all that work — no matter if you choose to do it yourself or hire someone.
Wood Deck Sealing Costs
All lumber — even wood that has been treated with preservatives — is susceptible to damage from moisture. Since wood is an organic material, it’s naturally absorbent, meaning that water will not only adhere to a wood surface, it also can seep into it. This can cause a host of problems — from surface mold and mildew growth to structural damage.
To prevent this from happening, lumber decking must be sealed with paint or stain every few years. That costs money in terms of the price of materials and the time and labor required for the homeowner to do the job themselves or find a contractor to do the job for them.
Industry research has found that homeowners spend an average of $761 a year on professional deck maintenance (sanding, prepping and staining). Most homeowners pay between $594 and $849 per year2.
Of course, the DIY homeowner has the option of renting the equipment, cleaners, stain and sealants and tackling the job on his/her own. But keep in mind that while the cost of materials may be less, sealing a wood deck is a labor-intensive job and can take as many as two full days to complete.
As you can see, after just two to three years, the additional expense of maintaining a seemingly lower costing pressure treated wood deck starts to encroach on what a high-quality hardwood composite deck would have cost.
Composite Decks Build Transferable Value
While some DIYers may not mind the upkeep required for wood decks, keep in mind the next homeowner might not feel the same way. What one homeowner sees as being a benefit, another may see as a chore. A new homebuyer may look at a pressure treated deck as something that will require work to maintain. Depending on the size and condition of the old deck, this may become a deal-breaker on the sale. On the other hand, a low maintenance, high- quality composite deck has far greater appeal for potential buyers and will most likely retain more of its transferable value for longer.
Benefits of Composite Decking
When homeowners understand the true costs behind building a pressure treated wood deck, the benefits of composite decking become more evident. Once installed, polypropylene-based composite decking, including Barrette Outdoor Living’s line of composite decking, requires minimal maintenance to keep them looking great.
A high-quality composite deck can last for more than half a century (depending upon the integrity of its sub-structure) and can still look great with only occasional cleaning with soap and water.
As homeowners continue to look for more benefits from their outdoor spaces — transforming drab and unused areas into a creative and personal oasis — construction pros are now recommending composite decking more than ever before. Homeowners who intend to purchase weather-resistant furniture, install high-end outdoor appliances and other accents will most likely not want to move these things around every few years to power wash and repaint or stain a wood deck.
With composite decking now made to look and feel like real wood, homeowners can focus their attention creating memories on their new deck — instead of wasting time worrying about maintaining their deck. For many homeowners, the peace of mind that comes with choosing to install a composite deck is the gift that keeps on giving year after year.
See the difference for yourself. Order samples of Barrette Outdoor Living composite decking and have them shipped directly to your door!