Decking Materials 101: Pros, Cons, and Costs for Your Next Project

Adding or replacing a deck is one of the best ways to expand your living space and enjoy the outdoors—but choosing the right decking material is just as important as the design. Each option comes with trade-offs in cost, maintenance, durability, and appearance.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common deck materials used in Central Pennsylvania and what you need to know about each.

Photo by Point3D Commercial Imaging Ltd.

1. Pressure-Treated Wood

Overview: The most budget-friendly option, pressure-treated lumber is widely available and easy to work with.

Pros:

• Lowest upfront cost

• Readily available

• Can be painted or stained

Cons:

• Requires regular sealing or staining

• Prone to cracking, splinters, and warping over time

• Shorter lifespan than composite or hardwoods

Best for: Homeowners on a budget or those planning to replace the deck within 10–15 years.

2. Composite Decking (e.g., Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon)

Overview: Made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic, composite decking offers the look of wood with far less maintenance.

Pros:

• Low maintenance—no staining or sealing required

• Resists fading, splinters, and rot

• Long lifespan (25–50 years)

• Available in a variety of colors and textures

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost than pressure-treated wood

• Can get hot in direct sunlight

• May look less natural than real wood, depending on brand

Best for: Homeowners looking for long-term durability with minimal upkeep.

3. PVC Decking (e.g., Azek, Wolf Serenity)

Overview: 100% synthetic and even more weather-resistant than composite, PVC decking is ideal for wet or humid environments.

Pros:

• Extremely low maintenance

• Highly resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew

• Lightweight and durable

• Cooler underfoot than composite in sun

Cons:

• Premium pricing

• Less wood-like appearance than composite

• Can expand/contract more with temperature swings

Best for: High-end decks or poolside areas where moisture resistance is a top priority.

4. Hardwood Decking (e.g., Ipe, Mahogany, Cumaru)

Overview: Tropical hardwoods offer a luxurious, natural look and extreme durability—but they come at a cost.

Pros:

• Rich, natural appearance

• Extremely durable and dense

• Can last 30+ years with proper care

Cons:

• Expensive material and labor

• Requires routine oiling or sealing to preserve color

• Can be difficult to work with (dense wood requires special tools)

Best for: High-end builds where aesthetics and longevity are priorities.

5. Cedar or Redwood

Overview: Naturally rot-resistant softwoods with a beautiful appearance, but not as durable as hardwoods or synthetics.

Pros:

• Attractive grain and color

• Naturally resistant to decay and insects

• Easier to work with than hardwoods

Cons:

• Requires regular sealing/staining

• Softer wood—more prone to dents or scratches

• Not as long-lasting as composite or hardwood

Best for: Homeowners who love the look of real wood and are willing to perform regular maintenance.

Which Decking Material Is Right for You?

Choosing the right material depends on your budget, maintenance preferences, aesthetic goals, and how long you plan to stay in your home. Here’s a quick summary:

Material	Lifespan	Maintenance	Cost Range
Pressure-Treated	10–15 years	High	Low
Composite	25–50 years	Low	Medium–High
PVC	30–50 years	Very Low	High
Hardwood (Ipe)	30–40 years	Moderate	High
Cedar/Redwood	15–25 years	Moderate–High	Medium

Need Help Choosing a Decking Material?

At Ebersole Remodeling, we help homeowners in Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, Camp Hill, and Hershey design and build decks that fit their lifestyle and budget. Whether you're looking for a classic wood deck or a long-lasting composite upgrade, we’ll guide you through your options and deliver high-quality results.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your outdoor project.