Composite vs. Wood Decks: The Bennington Homeowner's Real-World Guide

When we decided to replace our 15-year-old pressure-treated wood deck, I assumed we'd just go with wood again. That was before I spent an entire summer staining, sealing, and sanding splinters out of little hands. A neighbor mentioned composite decking, but was it really better? I turned to Hunt Home Remodeling's Deck Installation Guide and discovered some surprising truths about both options.

The Great Decking Debate

Here's what I learned from Hunt's experts about today's decking landscape:

Wood Deck Reality Check

The Good:

• Lower upfront cost (about $15-$25/sq ft installed)

• Traditional look many homeowners love

• Easier to repair individual boards

The Not-So-Good:

• Requires annual maintenance (average $300-$500/year)

• Lifespan of 10-15 years in Nebraska's climate

• Splintering and warping over time

• Susceptible to insect damage

Composite Deck Deep Dive

Why It's Gained Popularity:

• 50-year warranties on premium products

• No staining or sealing ever

• Resistant to fading and scratches

• Eco-friendly options using recycled materials

What You Should Know:

• Higher initial cost ($25-$45/sq ft)

• Can get hotter than wood in direct sun

• Not all composites are created equal

Bennington-Specific Considerations

Hunt's local experience revealed key factors for our area:

1. Temperature Swings: Composite handles freeze-thaw cycles better

2. Humidity: Wood expands/contracts more dramatically

3. Maintenance: Composite saves about 20 hours/year of upkeep

4. HOA Rules: Some neighborhoods have material restrictions

The Hidden Cost Calculator

When I compared 20-year costs:

• Wood: $8,000 (installation) + $7,000 (maintenance) = $15,000

• Composite: $14,000 (installation) + $500 (cleaning) = $14,500

Why We Chose Composite

After seeing Hunt's Trex samples and talking to neighbors:

• Time Savings: No more weekend sealing projects

• Safety: No splinters for bare feet

• Consistency: Uniform color that won't weather unevenly

• Warranty: 25-year coverage on fading/staining

Pro Tip from Hunt

"Invest in quality hidden fasteners - they prevent moisture buildup under composite boards and give a cleaner look."

Final Decision

We went with Hunt's recommendation of Trex Transcend in Spiced Rum - it looks like real wood but with none of the hassle. Six months in, we've hosted two birthday parties, countless cookouts, and haven't touched a sander once.

Tags: #DeckMaterials #BenningtonLiving #LowMaintenance #OutdoorSpaces #HomeInvestment