New deck

[Annahmed]

Is it better to use pressure-treated wood or composite materials for building a deck? I'm particularly concerned about resistance to mold and mildew due to the humidity.

[Gardenboy]

Hi there!

Both materials have distinct advantages for deck building, particularly regarding mold and moisture resistance:

Pressure-Treated Wood:
- More affordable initially ($2-5 per linear foot vs $7-12 for composite)
- Natural wood appearance that can be stained any color
- Can last 15-25 years with proper maintenance
- Resistant to insects and decay due to chemical treatment
- Requires annual cleaning and sealing to prevent mold/mildew growth
- May warp or crack over time in humid conditions

Composite Materials:
- Superior mold and mildew resistance
- Virtually maintenance-free (just occasional cleaning)
- Won't splinter, warp, or rot
- Longer lifespan (25-30+ years)
- Available in many colors and wood-grain patterns
- Higher upfront cost but lower lifetime maintenance costs
- Won't accept stains or paint if you want to change colors later

Given your specific concern about humidity and mold resistance, composite materials would likely be the better choice. While the upfront cost is higher, you'll save time and money on maintenance and have better peace of mind regarding moisture issues.

[Annahmed]

Thanks Gardenboy!

Given your specific concern about humidity and mold resistance, composite materials would likely be the better choice.

Does composite decking get hot in direct sunlight?

[Gardenboy]

Yes, composite decking does get pretty hot in the sun - noticeably hotter than regular wood. If you've ever walked barefoot on a dark driveway in summer, it's kind of like that. The darker colors, like deep browns and blacks, can get especially toasty. That's why many people choose lighter colors like tan or gray, which stay a bit cooler. Some newer composite products are better at handling heat, but they're still generally warmer than wood.

If you're worried about the heat, there are some easy solutions. You could add an umbrella or pergola over parts of your deck where people hang out most. Also, just like any outdoor space, people tend to use it more in the morning or evening when the sun isn't so strong. I always suggest feeling samples of different colors on a sunny day before making your final choice - it's a simple test that can save you from a too-hot deck later!

[Annahmed]

Thanks for the info! Do you know how big the temperature difference is between composite and wood?

[Gardenboy]

So, composite decking does tend to get hotter than wood—sometimes up to 20–30 degrees warmer on a really sunny day. That’s because composites usually have plastic in them, which holds onto heat more than natural wood does. Wood, especially if it’s a lighter color, doesn’t heat up as much and cools down faster. If keeping it cool is a priority, you might look into lighter colors for either material, since they reflect more sunlight. Some newer composite brands are also starting to offer heat-resistant options that don’t get as warm. And, honestly, a bit of shade can make a huge difference—like adding an umbrella or a small pergola to help keep things cooler on hot days.