When planning a new deck, one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right material. It’s not just a matter of aesthetics, your choice will affect how your deck performs over time, how much maintenance it needs, how it weathers BC’s varied climate, and ultimately, how much you enjoy using it.
At All Hands On Deck, we’ve built custom decks across the Fraser Valley, Greater Vancouver, and the Okanagan using both wood and composite materials. Each has its strengths. The key is finding what works best for your home, your budget, and your lifestyle.
Let’s break down the differences between wood and composite decking, with a focus on the needs of BC homeowners.
Why This Decision Matters So Much in British Columbia
BC is one of the most climate-diverse provinces in Canada. In the Lower Mainland, we get a lot of rain and mild winters. In the Okanagan, summers are hotter and drier, while winters can be colder and snowier. That means your deck needs to handle moisture, UV exposure, and seasonal expansion and contraction.
The materials you choose must be able to stand up to this environment without warping, splintering, rotting, or fading prematurely. Choosing the wrong material could lead to more repairs, and a shorter deck lifespan.
The Case for Natural Wood Decking
For many homeowners, wood is the classic choice. It offers a natural, warm appearance that’s hard to replicate. Wood can be stained or painted in a variety of finishes, and it blends beautifully with outdoor landscapes.
Pros of Wood Decking:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Nothing beats the rich grain and warmth of real wood.
- Cost-Effective (Upfront): Pressure-treated lumber is one of the most affordable decking options.
- Customizable: Wood can be cut, shaped, and finished to suit virtually any design.
- Locally Available: Cedar, a popular choice in BC, is locally sourced and naturally resistant to insects and decay.
Cons of Wood Decking:
- Ongoing Maintenance: Wood needs to be sealed or stained regularly to protect it from moisture and UV damage.
- Weather Vulnerability: Without maintenance, wood is prone to cracking, splitting, warping, or rot—especially in wet BC climates.
- Shorter Lifespan: Even with proper care, wood decking typically lasts 10–15 years before needing replacement.
Best Wood Options for BC:
- Pressure-treated lumber: Budget-friendly and durable, but requires more sealing.
- Cedar: A natural, lightweight option that’s resistant to moisture and insects, though softer than hardwoods.
- Hardwoods like ipe: Extremely durable but more expensive and harder to source.
The Case for Composite Decking
Composite decking is made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastics. It’s engineered to look like wood, but with enhanced durability and less upkeep.
In recent years, composite materials have become increasingly popular—especially for BC homeowners who want a long-lasting, low-maintenance deck that still looks sharp.
Pros of Composite Decking:
- Low Maintenance: No need to stain, seal, or sand. Just occasional cleaning with soap and water.
- Long Lifespan: Can last 25–30+ years with minimal wear, even in harsh weather.
- Resistant to Fading and Stains: Holds up well under UV exposure and messy spills.
- Consistent Appearance: Boards are uniform in color and texture with no knots or defects.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Many brands use recycled materials and environmentally conscious manufacturing.
Cons of Composite Decking:
- Higher Upfront Cost: More expensive than wood in most cases, though costs even out over time.
- Heat Retention: Some composite boards can get hot in direct summer sun.
- Less Natural Look: While high-end composite mimics wood well, it still lacks the grain depth and variation of real wood.
- Installation Considerations: Heavier and may require specific fasteners or support systems.
Head-to-Head: Comparing Cost Over Time
At first glance, wood decking is more affordable. But when you factor in the cost of sealants, stains, cleaning products, tools, and labor over a decade, the total cost of ownership begins to favor composite.
For example, if a pressure-treated deck costs $30–$40/sq ft initially, add annual maintenance costs of $300–$500. Compare that to a composite deck that may cost $50–$65/sq ft, but with almost no upkeep.
For homeowners planning to stay in their home long-term—or those who want to avoid the hassle of yearly maintenance—composite is often the better investment.
What About Sustainability?
Sustainability matters more than ever. BC homeowners are increasingly looking for products that align with eco-conscious values. Composite decking often leads the way here, using recycled plastics and reclaimed wood fibers. Some brands also offer take-back programs or low-impact manufacturing processes.
That said, wood sourced locally (like BC cedar) also has a small transportation footprint and can be repurposed or composted after its lifespan. It’s a trade-off, and your choice depends on whether you prioritize renewability (wood) or recycled content and longevity (composite).
Maintenance Expectations: Set It and Forget It?
If you enjoy weekend projects and the smell of fresh stain in the spring air, wood might be the right call. Some homeowners find satisfaction in maintaining their deck’s finish, adjusting its color, and staying hands-on.
If your weekends are better spent enjoying the deck than working on it, composite will win every time. You’ll still want to sweep off debris, wash it a couple of times a year, and inspect for buildup in grooves, but that’s about it.
What We Recommend to Our Clients
At All Hands On Deck, we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. We work with each client to understand their vision, how much time they want to invest in upkeep, how long they plan to stay in the home, and what kind of budget they’re working with.
In wetter regions like the Lower Mainland, composite can be a wise long-term option. For sunny, drier areas like the Okanagan, well-maintained cedar can perform beautifully and bring a natural look that fits the landscape. For clients focused on affordability, pressure-treated wood is still a great entry point that can last with proper care.
We also help clients consider the small details, like matching railings, adding lighting, and integrating stairs or privacy screens—to ensure their decking material complements the full vision of the outdoor space.
Ready to Make the Right Choice for Your Deck?
Whether you’re drawn to the timeless warmth of natural wood or the worry-free durability of composite, choosing the right material is the first step toward a deck you’ll love for years. With the right design, craftsmanship, and planning, your outdoor space can become one of the most used and enjoyed parts of your home.
At All Hands On Deck, we bring years of hands-on experience building beautiful, weather-resistant decks throughout British Columbia. We’ll walk you through your material options, design choices, and what to expect from start to finish—so you can move forward with confidence.
Explore our deck building services or contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let’s build a deck that fits your home, your lifestyle, and your future.
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