06/29/2026
ERGON EXTERIOR
Building It Right
Composite vs. Pressure-Treated Decking
The Kansas City Homeowner's Guide to
Building the Right Deck
Meet Mike Magee
Building has never been a job to me. It's been a passion for as long as I can remember. From scavenging scrap lumber as a kid to framing custom homes at 17, I've spent nearly three decades building things with my hands. Today, I specialize in creating outdoor living spaces that families can enjoy for decades. A deck is a blank canvas, and every project is an opportunity to build something beautiful and lasting.
Composite vs. Treated Lumber
Pressure-treated lumber offers a lower upfront cost and natural wood appearance. Composite decking requires a larger initial investment but dramatically reduces maintenance and often provides better long-term value over a 20-30 year ownership period.
Long-Term Cost Comparison
While treated lumber may cost less initially, homeowners often spend thousands of dollars over time on staining, sealing, repairs, and board replacement. Composite decking typically requires only routine cleaning, making it a strong long-term investment.
Why Homeowners Choose Ergon Exterior
• Nearly 30 years of carpentry experience • BBB Accredited Business • Custom deck design and construction • Composite and treated lumber expertise • Built to fit your lifestyle • Commitment to quality craftsmanship
Final Thought
We're not here to sell you the most expensive deck. We're here to help you build the right deck for your home, your budget, and how long you plan to stay there. That's what Building It Right means.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
When planning a new deck, most homeowners focus primarily on the initial price.
However, the true cost of a deck should be measured over the entire life of the structure.
While pressure-treated lumber offers the lowest upfront investment, composite decking often provides lower ownership costs over a
20- to 30-year period due to significantly reduced maintenance requirements and longer service life.
This report examines both options objectively so homeowners can make an informed financial decision.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR OPTIONS
PRESSURE-TREATED LUMBER
Pressure-treated lumber is natural wood infused with preservatives designed to resist insects, decay, and moisture damage.
Advantages
• Lower initial investment
• Natural wood appearance
• Easier board replacement
• Cooler surface temperatures
• Widely available
Disadvantages
• Requires staining and sealing
• Can crack, split, and warp
• Vulnerable to weathering
• Higher maintenance costs
• Shorter lifespan
COMPOSITE DECKING
Composite decking combines recycled wood fibers with high-performance polymers to create a low-maintenance decking material.
Advantages
• Minimal maintenance
• No staining required
• Resistant to rot and insects
• Long manufacturer warranties
• Consistent appearance
• Long lifespan
Disadvantages
• Higher initial cost
• Can become warmer in direct sunlight
• More expensive to repair individual boards
INITIAL COST COMPARISON
Example Based on a 320 Square Foot Deck
Pressure-Treated DeckEstimated Installed Cost:
$10,000 - $14,000
Composite DeckEstimated Installed Cost:
$16,000 - $22,000
Average Additional Investment for Composite:
$6,000 - $8,000
At first glance, pressure-treated lumber appears to be the better financial decision.
However, this only reflects day-one costs.
LIFETIME COST ANALYSIS
Typical 25-Year Ownership Costs
Pressure-Treated Deck
Initial Construction: $12,000
Maintenance: $6,000
Repairs: $3,000
Board Replacement: $4,000
Total Ownership Cost:
$25,000
Composite Deck
Initial Construction: $18,000
Maintenance: $500
Repairs: $500
Board Replacement: $0
Total Ownership Cost:
$19,000
Potential Savings:
Approximately $6,000 over 25 years
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
PRESSURE-TREATED LUMBER
Every 2-3 Years
• Pressure wash
• Sand surfaces
• Replace damaged boards
• Apply stain
• Apply sealer
Annual Inspection
• Loose fasteners
• Splitting boards
• Rot damage
• Structural movement
Estimated Annual Maintenance Cost:
$200-$600 per year
COMPOSITE DECKING
Annual Maintenance
• Wash with soap and water
• Inspect hardware
• Remove debris
Estimated Annual Maintenance Cost:
$10-$25 per year
No staining.
No sealing.
No sanding.
No repainting.
DURABILITY COMPARISON
Pressure-Treated Decking
Expected Service Life
15-20 Years
Excellent Maintenance
20-25 Years
Composite Decking
Expected Service Life
25-50 Years
Manufacturer Warranties
25-50 Years
RETURN ON INVESTMENT
ANALYSIS
Scenario:
Composite Upgrade Cost:
$7,000
Annual Maintenance Savings:
$350
Annual Repair Savings:
$150
Total Annual Savings:
$500
Break-Even Point:
Approximately 14 Years
After Year 14, the composite deck begins generating a net financial advantage comparec to pressure-treated lumber.
By Year 25:
Estimated Net Savings:
$5,000-$8,000
HOMEOWNER DECISION
GUIDE
Choose Pressure-Treated Lumber If:
v Budget is limited
V You plan to move within 5-7 years
v You enjoy maintenance projects
V You prefer natural wood aesthetics
Choose Composite Decking If:
V You plan to stay 10+ years
v You want minimal maintenance
v You value long-term savings
v You prefer a consistently attractive appearance
v You want maximum durability
CONTRACTOR
RECOMMENDATIONS
At EARGON EXTERIOR, we generally
recommend:
Pressure-Treated Lumber
For:
• Rental properties
• Starter homes
• Budget-conscious projects
• Short-term ownership
Composite Decking
For:
• Forever homes
• Luxury outdoor living spaces
• High-use family decks
• Clients seeking long-term value
• Homeowners wanting low maintenance
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Will composite decking increase home value?
Composite decking can improve buyer appeal and reduce concerns about future maintenance, making it attractive to many prospective homebuyers.
Is composite decking slippery?
Most modern composite products feature textured surfaces that provide traction comparable to or better than many wood decking products.
Can composite decking rot?
Composite decking is highly resistant to rot and moisture damage compared to traditional lumber.
Does wood decking require staining?
Yes. Regular staining and sealing are strongly recommended to maximize lifespan and appearance.
FINAL VERDICT
Pressure-treated lumber is usually the most affordable deck today.
Composite decking is often the most affordable deck over its lifetime.
If you plan to own your home for fewer than 7 years, pressure-treated lumber may be the better financial choice.
If you plan to stay in your home for 10 years or longer, composite decking frequently becomes the superior long-term investment.
The best deck is not necessarily the cheapest deck to build.
The best deck is the one that provides the greatest value throughout the years you plan to own it.
Prepared By: EARGON EXTERIOR
Professional Deck Design & Construction
Serving Kansas City and Surrounding Communities
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
Call Mike for your free consultation and estimate today.
Financing available.
Better Business Bureau accreditation.
Satisfaction guarantee.
816-826-4496
www.ergonexterior.com
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