Wood Vs. Composite Decking Materials

Decay Resistance

• Wood must be treated with toxic chemicals to become pressure treated -- the only type of wood completely impervious to rot and termites. Cedar and redwood have natural decay resistance, but rot is still possible. Composite decking can't rot or suffer from insect damage due to the plastic or resin binding compounds, according to the U.S. Forestry Service.

Cost

• Pressure treated lumber shares the insect and rot damage resistance of composite decking, but at half the cost. However, composites don't require re-staining and re-sealing with expensive coatings every few years like wood, according to Galt Home Buying Guides. If you need to hire a company to re-seal your deck, these maintenance costs can add up after a decade and make lumber a more expensive choice.

Visual Appeal

• Some composite decking has wood grain patterns, but doesn't offer the same warmth and color variation of real wood, says Landscaping Ideas Online. Hardwoods such as cedar and exotic ipe or mahogany feature grain patterns and deep colors that can't yet be replicated by a plastic-based material.