VS
Overall Winner: Redwood
Based on price, durability, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness
aluminum
Aluminum Decking
Price$15 – $30 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceNone
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
★ Winner
wood
Redwood
Price$8 – $15 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceMedium
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Aluminum Decking (10/10)
←
Redwood (8/10)
Aluminum Decking (6/10)
→
Redwood (10/10)
Aluminum Decking (7/10)
=
Redwood (7/10)
Aluminum Decking (4/10)
→
Redwood (7/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Aluminum Decking
$10,500
to $19,500
Redwood
$8,400
to $15,000
★ Better Value
Aluminum Decking
Pros
- Completely fireproof (ideal for fire-prone areas)
- Will never rot, warp, crack, or splinter
- 100% recyclable — eco-friendly lifecycle
- Zero maintenance required
- Cool to touch in direct sun
- Lightweight yet extremely strong
Cons
- High upfront cost
- Modern/industrial look — not for everyone
- Limited colour and style options
- Can dent from heavy impacts
- Fewer contractors experienced with aluminum
Redwood
Pros
- Rich, warm natural colour
- Naturally resistant to decay
- Dimensionally stable — less warping
- Lightweight and workable
- Beautiful grain patterns
Cons
- Expensive in Canada (imported)
- Limited availability
- Still needs periodic sealing
- Softer than Ipê
- Not as common with Canadian contractors
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Aluminum Decking if:
Commercial, waterfront, or fire-prone areas needing maximum durability.
Choose Redwood if:
Premium natural wood decks with rich colour.
