Pressure-treated wood vs Composite (Trex-style) Deck Building: 2026 Cost Comparison
Deciding between pressure-treated wood and composite (trex-style) for your deck building? Here's how the two stack up on installed cost, upkeep and longevity — with a side-by-side price table and honest pros and cons.
Pressure-treated wood vs Composite (Trex-style): cost comparison
Installed cost per sq ft, and a typical 320 sq ft project (national average).
| Material | Per sq ft | Typical 320 sq ft project |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | $15–$25 | $4,800 – $8,000 |
| Composite (Trex-style) | $30–$60 | $9,600 – $19,200 |
Ballpark 2026 national baselines for planning — not a quote. Your region and site conditions shift the number.
Pros & cons
Pressure-treated wood
- Cheapest decking material
- Strong, readily available structural lumber
- Easy to work with and repair
- Needs cleaning, staining/sealing every 1–2 years
- Can warp, crack and splinter as it ages
Best for: Budget builds and DIY-minded owners who don't mind upkeep.
Composite (Trex-style)
- Almost no maintenance — no staining or sealing
- Won't splinter, rot or warp; lasts 25–30+ years
- Consistent color and fade/stain warranties
- High upfront cost (roughly 1.5–2× wood)
- Surface gets hot in direct sun; can't be refinished
Best for: Owners who want to build once and skip annual upkeep.
Which should you choose?
If budget is the priority, pressure-treated wood wins: it runs about $4,800–$8,000 on a typical 320 sq ft project, roughly $4,800–$11,200 less than composite (trex-style). It's best for budget builds and diy-minded owners who don't mind upkeep. Step up to composite (trex-style) (about $9,600–$19,200) for owners who want to build once and skip annual upkeep — the higher upfront cost buys longevity and lower upkeep over time. For many homeowners the right answer comes down to how long you plan to stay: the pricier option usually pays off over a longer hold.
Frequently asked questions
Is pressure-treated wood or composite (trex-style) cheaper for deck building?
Pressure-treated wood is the cheaper option at $15–$25 per sq ft installed, versus $30–$60 for composite (trex-style). On a typical 320 sq ft project that's about $4,800–$11,200 more for composite (trex-style).
Is composite (trex-style) worth the extra cost over pressure-treated wood?
It depends on how long you'll stay and what you value. Composite (Trex-style) costs more up front but almost no maintenance — no staining or sealing. Pressure-treated wood is the better pick for budget builds and diy-minded owners who don't mind upkeep.
How much does deck building cost per sq ft in 2026?
For these two materials, pressure-treated wood runs about $15–$25 per sq ft and composite (trex-style) $30–$60 per sq ft, installed. Your region, project size and site conditions shift the number — use the calculator for a localized estimate.
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