So you’ve decided to build a deck, but now you have to choose between composite and wood deck materials.

So what’s better, composite or wood decks?

Ask a contractor this question and you’ll get a long-winded, not particularly helpful answer.

Many contractors will explain, very reasonably, why the most expensive and labor-intensive material is absolutely perfect for your backyard project.

Kilbury Construction builds new decks in Rochester, NY  as well as restores decks so residents can enjoy all year long, and we can expertly use both wood and composite material to handcraft the perfect backyard retreat for your home. We’re happy to provide an expert recommendation between wood and composite decking based on your needs and budget, but we also want you to have all the information you need to make an informed choice.

So before you start dreaming of a spa deck combo or even start building a new deck in Rochester, you need to decide what kind of material you’re going to park your grill on for the years to come. Let’s run down the pros and cons of wood vs composite decks in Rochester. We’ll also look at the effects of snow on wood and composite decks.

Pros and Cons of Composite Decking Rochester, NY

First things first, yes, composite decking is more expensive than most types of wood. And 20 years ago not all composites would stand the test of time. But today, composite decking is some of the best building material available. Built from wood particles and recycled plastic, composite decking is favored by homeowners for being extremely low maintenance. Whereas wooden decks need to be treated, sprayed with insecticide, stained, washed, treated again, and then stained again the following spring, composite decking holds up well on its own year after year.

Even though composite decking might cost more upfront, it will save you both time and money in the long run. Plus, you won’t find ants or other bests boring tunnels and building nests while your back is turned. In extremely hot climates, composite decks can get too hot to stand on with bare feet, but that’s rarely (if ever) a problem in the mild Rochester Summer. Some customers worry that composite decking won’t have the same look and feel as certain high quality wood, but the truth is most of your backyard barbecue guests will never even know the difference.

Pros and Cons of Wood Decking Rochester, NY

When people ask about wood vs composite decks, often they’re really asking about price. According to Angie’s List, a composite decking project that costs $11,000 would only cost $7,500 with cedar and $6,000 with treated lumber. But remember, wood decks require a little more TLC if you want them to last as long as a composite deck. Even if you only stain and treat your deck once every three years, you could still end up spending more than $4,000 in upkeep costs in just 11 years of enjoying your deck.

However, despite manufacturers’ claims that composite decking is “zero maintenance,” any deck will require upkeep, even composite decking. Plus, treated lumber and other wood construction materials are far more resistant to rot, moisture, and insects than those manufacturers would have you believe. With the right care, there’s no reason a wood deck can’t last just as long as a composite deck, and without spending as much on the construction costs.

And, let’s be honest, does anything look better in a backyard than a high quality wooden deck or patio?

Wood vs Composite Decks Rochester, NY — What Material Is Best For The Climate?

Chances are, you want to use your deck to make the most out of the summer season, but many Rochester homeowners are worried about the damaging effects of humidity and sunlight on their new deck or patio. And although all decks require upkeep and maintenance, the Rochester summers aren’t so intense that they pose a particular threat to your deck. After all, decks are hugely popular down South, where the humidity and heat make the Rochester summer seem mild in comparison.

And then, of course, there’s the long, snowy, icy, freezing, when-will-it-be-over Rochester winter. So many of our customers want to know about the effects of snow and wood or composite decking. If you’re looking for a material that will hold up best under several feet of snow and ice, then composite materials that won’t absorb moisture, rot, or warp during the spring thaw are your best bet. Composite decking might cost more during the installation, but it won’t require as much preparation or maintenance before, during, and after the Rochester winter. But truthfully, wood decks hold up just fine in the Rochester winter. We know a thing or two about building new decks in Rochester, and a good deck can handle a little snow a lot of snow.

In general, new deck builders will ensure your backyard project can withstand several feet of snow. Save for shoveling a path to walk through, there’s no reason to clear your deck of snow and ice. In fact, doing so is almost certain to scratch composite decking or gouge holes in wood decking. So save your back the trouble and just leave the accumulated snow for the sun to deal with in time.

Remember: Certain types of ice melt will damage composite decks. Look for calcium chloride-based products, usually advertised as “pet safe,” “will not kill grass,” and “safe for concrete or blue stone.” Ice melt with dyes or color added may also stain decks.

Kilbury Construction — Building The New Decks Rochester Homes Deserve

No matter what your backyard or budget looks like, we’re confident that the expert contractor at Kilbury construction can build a new deck to suit your needs. We’re skilled in building with both wood and composite decking, and are happy to make a recommendation perfect for your home. If you’re looking for a free quote from our new deck builders in Rochester, NY, then call Kilbury Construction today at (585) 247-8509.