Choosing between wood and composite decking is one of the biggest decisions Michigan homeowners face when building a deck. Both have real advantages and drawbacks. Here is an honest comparison based on what we see in Oakland County.
Cost Comparison
| Material | Material Cost (per sq ft) | Installed Cost (per sq ft) | 16x20 Deck Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Wood | $3 - $8 | $18 - $28 | $5,800 - $9,000 |
| Cedar | $8 - $14 | $25 - $38 | $8,000 - $12,200 |
| Composite (Trex, TimberTech) | $10 - $22 | $28 - $45 | $9,000 - $14,400 |
| Premium Composite (Azek, TimberTech Advanced) | $18 - $30 | $38 - $55 | $12,200 - $17,600 |
Composite costs 30 to 50 percent more upfront than pressure-treated wood. But that is only half the story.
Maintenance Comparison
Pressure-treated wood needs staining or sealing every 2 to 3 years to prevent rot, warping, and graying. In Michigan, where we get freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, and snow sitting on decks for months, this maintenance is not optional. Skip it and your deck degrades fast. Budget $300 to $800 per staining cycle, or $1,200 to $4,000 over 10 years.
Cedar is naturally rot-resistant but still needs annual treatment to maintain its color and prevent weathering. Untreated cedar will turn gray within a year in Michigan.
Composite decking requires soap and water. That is it. No staining, no sealing, no sanding. Most quality composite products come with 25 to 50 year warranties against fading, staining, and structural defects.
How Each Material Handles Michigan Weather
Michigan is tough on decks. Freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, summer humidity, and UV exposure all take a toll.
- Pressure-treated wood: Susceptible to cracking and splitting during freeze-thaw. Boards can warp and cup over time. Snow removal with a shovel can gouge the surface.
- Cedar: More dimensionally stable than PT wood but still prone to splitting in extreme cold. Softer wood that dents more easily.
- Composite: Handles freeze-thaw cycles well. Does not crack, split, or warp. Newer composites resist fading and staining much better than early generations. Some homeowners report that composite surfaces get hotter than wood in direct sun.
Lifespan
- Pressure-treated wood: 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance. Shorter without it.
- Cedar: 15 to 20 years with regular treatment.
- Composite: 25 to 50 years. Most quality brands warranty against structural failure for 25+ years.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose wood if: You are on a tight budget, you prefer the look and feel of real wood, and you are willing to commit to regular maintenance. Pressure-treated is the most affordable way to get a deck built.
Choose composite if: You want low maintenance, a longer lifespan, and you plan to stay in your home long enough to benefit from reduced upkeep costs. The higher upfront cost pays for itself within 7 to 10 years in saved maintenance.
Our recommendation for most Oakland County homeowners: Composite. The maintenance savings are real, the products have improved dramatically in the last decade, and the 25+ year warranties provide peace of mind. If budget is the primary concern, pressure-treated wood is still a solid choice when properly maintained.
Imagine What Happens Out Back
We build decks in both wood and composite materials across South Lyon, Novi, Milford, Northville, Brighton, and the surrounding area. Get a free estimate and we will walk you through material options, pricing, and design for your specific property. Call (248) 804-5884.