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Choosing the top materials for each facet of your new deck is vital to its beauty and performance throughout its lifespan. Pine and composite are two popular decking choices. It’s important to understand their differences in the areas of durability, aesthetics, maintenance, and cost before landing on the best option for your outdoor living space.
Read on as we contrast pine and composite decking so you can make an optimal choice on which will work best for your long-term needs.
Composite vs. Pine Decking Materials
Imagine the possibilities of outdoor elements—like your dream deck—that support a seamless indoor/outdoor living space where you can enjoy life with those you love most.
Whether you select a pine or composite material will directly impact your new deck’s overall look, longevity, upkeep, and initial investment. Let’s dive in and compare these options:
Aesthetics
At SEED Development and Design, we ensure your decking elements complement your home’s architectural style. We guide you in the selection process so you get the ideal deck style, material, color, and finish.
Pine - Its traditional rustic look is aesthetically pleasing, with its lighter color (from cream to light brown) and natural grain patterns. Pine decking is porous, so it can be painted or stained to match your design preferences and complement your home’s looks.
Composite Decking - Today’s composite boards have highly evolved. With the texture and appearance of wood grain added to a larger color palette, this option can often match other wood varieties. Composite is one of the best all-purpose decking materials. It has a modern look that replicates wood (without wood’s high maintenance!).
Maintenance
As you plan your new deck’s materials, design, and amenities, remember to keep its care in mind. Your time is valuable, and low-maintenance materials may be a more significant investment upfront, but they will save you time and money in the long run.
Pine - To maintain pine decking for its full lifespan, regular cleaning, sealing, and staining are required. Neglecting essential upkeep allows moisture and UV damage to accelerate pine’s deterioration. If not properly maintained, wood decking boards can experience damaging moisture intrusion, splintering, rot, and warping over time. Issues like these call for major repairs or early replacement of decking materials.
Composite Decking - This decking material option only requires regular cleaning once or twice a year. There is no need to sand, seal, or stain composite decking, so you’ll have more time to do the things you love most. Do you want even more good news? Unlike wood decking, composite decking’s makeup is so strong, it never deteriorates due to the elements! The refreshingly low-maintenance needs of composite decking contribute significantly to its popularity.
Durability
The lifespan of your decking is directly impacted by the area’s climate. The amount of sun exposure, humidity, and rain it encounters are all part of the equation—which is why it’s essential that your decking is properly sealed.
Pine - A new pine deck can last for 10-15 years before needing significant replacement. With proper maintenance, such as power washing, sanding, and re-staining regularly, you may extend the life of your pine deck. When comparing pine decking to composite, the biggest distinction is how regular timber tends to split, warp, or fracture.
Composite Decking - This durable decking material lasts 25-30 years. It is made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, which produces reliable resistance to moisture, pests, and decay. Premium brands and higher-quality composites often have warranties of up to 25–50 years, reflecting their durability and longevity.
Cost
The price of your new deck is determined by its size and your choice of materials. At SEED Development and Design, our projects typically start at $35K, and we offer 15 months of interest-free financing through GreenSky to help make your dream deck a reality.
Pine - Pine is readily available throughout the U.S., and due to its accessibility it is a cost-effective choice when it comes to your initial investment. The price of pine decking is significantly less than composite decking. Keep in mind the time and money it takes to meet pine’s high-maintenance requirements before choosing it as a decking material.
Composite Decking - The initial cost of this durable decking material is greater than other options—like pine—but it requires far less maintenance, and is significantly longer-lasting than pine or other decking material options.
Handrail Material Options
Metal Railing - Durable and low-maintenance, metal railings offer sleek and modern designs. Options include trusted brands like Trex and Fortress, ensuring quality and style for your outdoor space
Pressure-Treated Pine with Aluminum Balusters - This option combines the natural warmth of wood with the sleek durability of aluminum. The pressure-treated pine provides a cost-effective and classic wood look, treated to resist rot, decay, and insects. Aluminum balusters add a modern touch, are rust-resistant, and require minimal maintenance, making this a stylish and practical choice for decks and outdoor spaces.
Create the Outdoor Living Space You’ve Been Dreaming Of
Does your patio, deck, or yard need a makeover in order to maximize its function and style? Don’t settle for subpar decking that lacks the beauty and function you need. Reimagine the possibilities for your outdoor living space, and let’s work together to maximize its potential with premium materials and the perfect design for you!
At SEED Development and Design, we install industry-leading Trex composite decking, which is available in a variety of options to match your style, performance, and affordability needs. We also install pine, Azek, TimberTech, and MoistureShield decking materials.
We know that whether it’s time to transform your backyard or home interior, the renovation is like nurturing a seed, which takes vision, patience, and the right care. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process so your dreams can grow into a space that feels deeply rooted in who you are and how you live. Learn more about our professional renovation services.
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