Composite Decks Vs. Wood Decks

By Gerry Donaghue • February 29, 2016
Composite Decks Vs. Wood Decks

If you’re like countless other homeowners, you might be considering a deck installation. Decks can greatly increase the value of your property, as well as provide a comfortable space for entertaining outdoors. While you’re still in the planning stages, you’ll need to consider several factors, such as your budget, available space and the type of deck material you want to use. You’ll usually choose between wood decking and composite decking.

What Are the Differences Between These Two Materials?

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Cons

Wood decking – Depending on the type of wood you choose for your deck installation, the boards might warp in moist conditions or even fall apart. Wood decks generally require more maintenance, which some homeowners find too time-consuming.

Composite decking – Composite decks also might warp if you’ve invested in a cheaper type. Hollow boards can hold water inside them and eventually break down. The color may fade over time, and they don’t tend to last as long as high-quality wood decks.

Pros

Wood decking – There are a variety of good wood types that can be suited for your particular environment. For example, cedar smells wonderful and can be ideal in drier climates. Redwood is durable and does better in more humid conditions. The upkeep might be less than many people would assume. Properly maintained decks made of quality wood can last for years.

 

Composite decking – High-quality composite boards are durable and look amazingly like real wood. Many types are UV-treated and scratch-resistant, and upkeep is minimal. Many people prefer the cost of a composite deck over wood, because over time the reduced treatments and upkeep pay for themselves.

Making a Choice

The type of deck material you choose in your deck installation will mostly depend on your personal preferences. Your lifestyle, climate and the time you have to provide upkeep can greatly influence your decision as well. If you need help making a decision give us a call at GT Donaghue Construction & Metal Roofing. For a free quote, click here!

February 17, 2025
Welcome to our new website for GT Donaghue Construction & Metal Roofing, LLC! We are so excited to roll out a much needed refresh on our website and share it with all of you. And with a new website comes a reintroduction to us here at GT Donaghue Construction! For those not familiar with us, GT Donaghue Construction & Metal Roofing, LLC (formerly Donaghue Construction) has been in business for almost 40 years working across New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, and even parts of New York bringing quality craftsmanship and decades of experience to all the projects we complete. Gerry Donaghue, our founder, started this business out of his house formerly in Nashua, NH and has sustained a quality business over the years through hard work and resilience. We have navigated fluctuations in the industry across the years with some years only allowing for a few members on our crew and some calling for multiple crews and larger partnerships. The one thing that hasn’t changed? Gerry’s commitment to high standard work and building relationships with the folks he serves. A family owned business, his daughter Ashley supports him on his admin team (after she did her time driving the dump truck for him as a teenager!), his brother Andrew works on the job site, and his wife Pat has always been there to help when needed-you can sometimes see her in the office or even at a home show! Gerry has a wealth and variety of experience ranging from ground up new builds, additions and interior remodels, deck installations, siding replacements and installations, and of course his favorite-metal roofing installations. Whether it is a unique custom job or a traditional upgrade, GT Donaghue Construction & Metal Roofing can help you out! We hope you enjoy our new website and feel free to reach out to us when we can help at your house!
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