VS
Overall Winner: Aluminum Decking
Based on price, durability, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness
wood
Pressure-Treated Wood
Price$2 – $5 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceHigh
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
★ Winner
aluminum
Aluminum Decking
Price$15 – $30 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceNone
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Pressure-Treated Wood (5/10)
→
Aluminum Decking (10/10)
Pressure-Treated Wood (5/10)
→
Aluminum Decking (6/10)
Pressure-Treated Wood (4/10)
→
Aluminum Decking (7/10)
Pressure-Treated Wood (9/10)
←
Aluminum Decking (4/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Pressure-Treated Wood
$6,600
to $12,000
Aluminum Decking
$10,500
to $19,500
★ Better Value
Pressure-Treated Wood
Pros
- Most affordable decking material
- Widely available across Canada
- Easy to work with — any contractor can install
- Can be stained any colour
- Resistant to rot and insects (treated)
Cons
- Requires annual staining/sealing
- Warps, cracks, and splinters over time
- Chemical treatment concerns
- Colour fades without maintenance
- Shorter lifespan than alternatives
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
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Pressure-Treated Wood if:
Budget-conscious homeowners who don't mind regular maintenance.
Choose Aluminum Decking if:
Commercial, waterfront, or fire-prone areas needing maximum durability.
