VS
Overall Winner: Trex Composite
Based on price, durability, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness
★ Winner
composite
Trex Composite
Price$10 – $22 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceLow
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
wood
Pressure-Treated Wood
Price$2 – $5 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceHigh
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
Trex Composite (9/10)
←
Pressure-Treated Wood (5/10)
Trex Composite (9/10)
←
Pressure-Treated Wood (5/10)
Trex Composite (8/10)
←
Pressure-Treated Wood (4/10)
Trex Composite (6/10)
→
Pressure-Treated Wood (9/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
Trex Composite
$9,000
to $17,100
★ Better Value
Pressure-Treated Wood
$6,600
to $12,000
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
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
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose Trex Composite if:
Homeowners seeking premium composite with industry-leading warranties.
Choose Pressure-Treated Wood if:
Budget-conscious homeowners who don't mind regular maintenance.
