VS
Overall Winner: PVC 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
pvc
PVC Decking
Price$10 – $22 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceNone
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Pressure-Treated Wood (5/10)
→
PVC Decking (10/10)
Pressure-Treated Wood (5/10)
→
PVC Decking (7/10)
Pressure-Treated Wood (4/10)
→
PVC Decking (5/10)
Pressure-Treated Wood (9/10)
←
PVC Decking (6/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Pressure-Treated Wood
$6,600
to $12,000
PVC Decking
$9,000
to $17,100
★ 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
PVC Decking
Pros
- Completely waterproof — zero moisture absorption
- Will never rot, even in standing water
- Lightest weight decking option
- Resists mold and mildew
- Excellent for pool surrounds and lakefront
- Longest lifespan
Cons
- Most expensive option
- Can look more "plastic" than composite
- Expands/contracts with temperature
- Limited colour options vs composite
- Not made from natural materials
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Pressure-Treated Wood if:
Budget-conscious homeowners who don't mind regular maintenance.
Choose PVC Decking if:
Waterfront properties, pool decks, or anyone wanting maximum durability.
