VS
Overall Winner: Trex Composite
Based on price, durability, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness
exotic-wood
Cumaru
Price$8 – $16 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceLow
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
★ Winner
composite
Trex Composite
Price$10 – $22 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceLow
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Cumaru (9/10)
=
Trex Composite (9/10)
Cumaru (9/10)
=
Trex Composite (9/10)
Cumaru (5/10)
→
Trex Composite (8/10)
Cumaru (7/10)
←
Trex Composite (6/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Cumaru
$8,400
to $15,300
Trex Composite
$9,000
to $17,100
★ Better Value
Cumaru
Pros
- Similar hardness to Ipê at lower cost
- Beautiful golden-brown tones
- Naturally resistant to rot and insects
- Very dense and durable
- More affordable exotic option
Cons
- Still expensive compared to domestic woods
- Imported — sustainability concerns
- Hard to work with — requires pre-drilling
- Can be inconsistent in colour
- Less well-known than Ipê
Trex Composite
Pros
- Industry-leading 25-year warranty
- Made from 95% recycled materials
- Fade & stain resistant shell
- Consistent colour and finish
- Most popular composite brand in Canada
Cons
- Premium pricing over generic composites
- Can get warm in direct sun
- Heavy boards require sturdy framing
- Limited to Trex colour options
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Cumaru if:
Homeowners who want exotic hardwood looks at a lower price than Ipê.
Choose Trex Composite if:
Homeowners seeking premium composite with industry-leading warranties.
