Composite vs Wood Decking: Is Fiberon Worth the Extra Cost?

This spring, Lenco’s stores filled with homeowners and contractors admiring our in-stock Fiberon composite decking. One question that seems to be on the mind, though, is whether the higher upfront cost of composite decking is worth it. When comparing composite vs wood decking, the difference goes beyond price; it hinges on how much maintenance you’re willing to take on and how well each material stands up over the long haul. Below is a concise comparison of pressure‑treated lumber, cedar, and Fiberon composite to help you decide.

Composite vs Wood Decking Cost Comparison

For a typical 20×12 foot deck, pressure treated boards cost roughly $550 and Fiberon composite boards about $1,150—a difference of about $2.50 per square foot.

That gap is real. Pressure treated lumber generally runs about $2-$8 per square foot, cedar about $4-$8, and composite decking around $8-$18 depending on the line. But when evaluating composite vs wood decking, upfront cost is only part of the picture. Over time, maintenance and replacement costs can close, or even eliminate, that gap.

Wood Decking: Pros and Cons vs Composite

Pressure treated Southern Pine is the most common choice for one reason: price. It’s affordable, readily available, and treated to resist insects and decay. For many projects, it gets the job done.

But there’s a tradeoff. Pressure treated decks typically last around 10-15 years and require regular upkeep. That means cleaning, staining, and sealing every few years, plus replacing boards as they crack, warp, or wear out.

Cedar steps things up in terms of appearance. It has a more refined grain and natural resistance to rot and insects. With proper care, it can last 10-20 years. That said, it still requires consistent maintenance—annual cleaning, regular sealing, and protection from moisture and sun exposure.

Both options offer a natural look and stay relatively cool underfoot, but neither is low maintenance. When comparing composite vs wood decking, wood wins on upfront cost, but it demands more time and attention over its lifespan.

Composite Decking Benefits vs Wood (Fiberon)

Composite decking is built differently. Fiberon boards combine wood fibers and recycled plastic, then cap them with a protective layer that resists moisture, fading, and wear.

The biggest advantage is maintenance, or more accurately, the lack of it. No staining. No sealing. No sanding. Just occasional cleaning with soap and water.

Fiberon composite decking also offers:

• Long lifespan (typically 25-30+ years)
• Strong warranty coverage (up to 50 years depending on the line)
• Consistent color and finish across boards
• Resistance to insects, rot, and splintering

There are tradeoffs. Composite costs more upfront, and darker boards can get warmer in direct sunlight. If a board is damaged, it needs to be replaced rather than repaired.

Still, when looking at composite vs wood decking, many homeowners decide the reduced maintenance alone makes composite the better long-term option.

Long-Term Value

A wood deck might cost less to build, but it rarely stays cheaper over time.

Annual maintenance on a wood deck can run from $450 to $850 when you factor in materials and time. Over 10 years, that adds up quickly. Repairs, board replacement, and eventual rebuild costs push that number even higher.

Composite decking changes the equation. With minimal maintenance and a lifespan that often doubles that of wood, the long-term cost becomes much more predictable.

The real difference between wood and composite decking has to do with not just what you spend today, but what you avoid spending later.

Which Decking Is Right for You?

The answer depends on your priorities.

• If keeping upfront cost as low as possible is the priority, pressure treated lumber fits the bill.
• If you want a more refined, natural look and are willing to maintain it, cedar is worth considering.
• If you want a deck that holds its appearance, requires minimal upkeep, and lasts for decades longer, composite decking like Fiberon is hard to beat.

For many homeowners, that roughly $600 difference on a mid-sized deck comes down to one question: do you want to spend your time maintaining your deck—or using it?

At Lenco, we stock Fiberon Good Life and Sanctuary collections alongside premium wood options, so you can compare them side by side. Stop by any of our physical locations or visit us online, take a look, and let us help you find the right fit for your project.