We build decks in both wood and composite materials, and we do not have a strong preference either way. What we do have is a clear sense of which material makes sense for which homeowner, based on how they plan to use the deck, how much maintenance they want to do, and what their budget looks like over a ten-year horizon rather than just at the point of installation.
Pressure-Treated Lumber: The Honest Case ¶
Pressure-treated lumber is the least expensive option at installation. A 400-square-foot deck in PT lumber will typically cost less than the same deck in composite. The trade-off is maintenance. In Portland's climate, a PT deck needs to be cleaned and resealed every two to three years to stay in good condition. If that does not happen, the wood grays, checks, and eventually splinters. For homeowners who do not mind the maintenance, PT is a perfectly good choice.
Cedar: The Middle Ground ¶
Western red cedar is naturally rot-resistant and takes stain well. It costs more than PT at installation but holds up better with less maintenance. It also looks better for longer. We source cedar from a supplier in Tualatin and have used it on decks that are now eight or nine years old and still in good shape with one or two reseals. Cedar is a good choice for homeowners who want a natural wood look and are willing to do light maintenance every few years.
Composite Decking: The Long-Term Math ¶
Trex and TimberTech composite decking costs significantly more at installation than wood. On a 400-square-foot deck, you might spend $4,000 to $6,000 more in materials alone. But composite requires almost no maintenance beyond an annual wash. It does not check, splinter, or need sealing. Over a fifteen-year period, the total cost of ownership often comes out close to or below a wood deck that has been properly maintained. For homeowners who do not want to think about the deck, composite is the right answer.
What We Recommend for Most Portland Homeowners ¶
If budget is the primary concern, PT lumber with a commitment to regular maintenance is a reasonable choice. If the homeowner wants a low-maintenance deck that will look good in ten years without much intervention, we recommend composite. Cedar is a good middle option for homeowners who want natural wood and are willing to do light upkeep. We are happy to walk through the numbers on any of these options during a site visit.
If you are planning a deck build this summer, we are currently booking projects for late July and August. Reach out to schedule a site visit and we will walk through material options and a realistic budget for your specific space.