Starting to work on composite decking for your outdoor surfaces, but don’t know how much it will cost? Don’t worry, in this blog, we’ll discuss composite decking in detail. From what is it to how much does it cost?
So, what is composite decking? Composite decking is an eco-friendly, man-made building material that is made from combining various materials such as recycled wood fibers, bonding agents, and plastic polymers, usually polyethylene or polypropylene. It is considered and widely used as an alternative method to the traditional timber decking for the construction of your outdoor surfaces.
This engineered outdoor flooring material, composite decking, is designed and manufactured to give the look of natural wood, which is more resistant to moisture, rotting, insects, damage caused by UV rays, and more. In short, it offers more durability, resistance, and requires less maintenance compared to traditional wood decking, making it a better option.
What Materials Is it Made Of?
Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled materials and additives. The core materials used to engineer it are as follows:
Wood fibers or wood flour, which are about 30 to 50% part of the product. It can be easily achieved from wood chips, wood waste, and sawdust.
The next material, which also takes about 30% to 50% of the product, is recycled plastics. The majority of composite decking engineers use high-density polyethylene for manufacturing. Sometimes, PVC(polyvinyl chloride) is also used, which helps in boosting the performance.
Additives and binders take about 5% to 15% of the product. Unlike wood fibers, which help boards maintain rigidity and fasteners, plastic helps with moisture resistance and flexibility. Additives help make the product UV-resistant, fade-proof colors, prevent color loss, degradation, hold moisture, and protect against any fungal growth.
Types Of Composite Decking
Unlike other types of decking, such as pressure treated wood decking and traditional hardwood, composite decking offers more durability, lower maintenance, and much better resistance to decay, rot, insects, and fading. The types of composite decking can be categorized in multiple categorized: based on structure, design, appearance, material, and treatment. Now, we’ll discuss each of these categories in detail so you can have a clear understanding of different types of composite decking.
- Solid Composite Decking: It is a type of composite decking that is typically manufactured from a mixture of wood fibers and plastic, leading to the creation of a much durable and strong material. It is more dense and heavy, giving almost feeling and strength of a real wood. It also has a full composite material throughout and doesn’t have any kind of hollow chambers. It is mostly used for balconies, public spaces, or residential decks.
Pros:
1. It is considered the strongest type and is ideal for commercial use, especially in high-traffic areas.
2. It is less prone to flexing under pressure or weight.
3. It also has better sound absorption abilities as it is not hollow.
Cons:
1. It is heavy, which makes it difficult to handle or install.
2. It is not cheap, and is expensive yet stable compared to other options such as hollow composite decking.
3. There is a chance of it expanding in extreme temperatures, so you need to work more on the installation part.
- Hollow Composite Decking: This is another type of composite decking. Although it is based on both structure and design. In this, decking is also made from a mixture of wood fibers and plastic, but the ones that have air pockets or channels running through their core. It can have either circular, square, or rectangular hollows. These hollow composite decking boards are very useful for light-use decks, DIY projects, or decks that are provided with proper substructure support.
Pros:
1. Compared to solid composite decking, this is more lightweight and easier to work with and transport.
2. It is a more affordable and cost-effective method as it also requires fewer materials.
3. Due to its lightweight properties, it is considered the best option for DIY projects.
Cons:
1. It is less strong, stable, and rigid compared to solid composite decking boards.
2. These boards have hollow areas that can trap moisture and debris if not treated or sealed properly.
3. Hollow spaces can make sound seem louder, making it noisier when walked on.
- Capped Composite Decking: Do you know that in 2024, the U.S market went up to 0.99 billion dollars, and in 2025, it is projected to reach about 1.09 billion US dollars using capped products? Also known as co-extruded, this one has an inner composite core, which can be either solid or hollow. Also similar in being made out of recycled wood fibers and plastic, the cap, however, is a polymer(PVC/polyethylene) which either wraps one, three, or all four sides, and thus is seen as more durable and strong. Capped composite is applied to the high-end residential/commercial decks, pools, and long-term outdoor construction.
Pros:
1. It offers much better protection and resistance against UV rays, moisture, mold, and stains.
2. It is available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes.
3. The ones that are capped on all sides are more durable, resistant, and require less maintenance.
Cons:
1. Compared to other options, it is more expensive, especially those that are fully capped on all sides.
2. If you are using a cap with three sides, the bottom is exposed.
3. It also has heat retention, compression, and expansion-related issues.
- Tongue and Groove Composite Decking: Based on board profile and installation style, this is a type of decking where we interlock boards with one another. So, each board has a tongue on one side, which is a protruding right or an edge, while a groove, which is a slot, on the other side. When everything is installed, the tongue of one board fits into the groove of the next board. This helps in creating a seamless surface and fits tightly without any difficulty.
Although the gaps in it aren’t that visible but there are a few gaps which also reduce the chances of water leakage.
Pros:
1. It has low maintenance compared to other types of composite decks.
2. The boards hold tight to each other, which reduces issues such as warping, moisture, and cupping.
3. The structure helps build a strong and smooth surface.
Cons:
1.It takes more time to install compared to other types.
2. It is not a good option for projects where water needs to pass through.
3. It is made for easy installation, but sometimes it can be time-consuming and complex if you are doing it yourself without technical skills.
- Wood-Plastic Composite (WPC): This type of composite deck is made out of wood fibers and recycled plastic. It is one of the most commonly used methods to create composite decking. It offers a more natural wood look and is commonly used for residential decking when budget and appearance are the main goals.
Pros:
1. It provides a feeling and look of natural wood.
2. It is less likely to rot, decay, and is resistant to pests and insects.
3. It requires less maintenance compared to wood and is a more eco-friendly method.
Cons:
1. After some time, it gets more vulnerable to fading and staining.
2. If not treated properly or is uncapped, it can absorb moisture.
3. It can expand/contract depending on whether the temperature is hot or cold.
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Composite: Also known as capped polymer decking, it is a type of composite decking that is made using synthetic plastic. Unlike other traditional composite decking methods, in this method, we are specifically using material known as polyvinyl chloride only; no wood fibers are used, so it is only plastic. WPC and PVC composite decking are used to make white composite deck boards, which are useful in poolside patios, coastal-style decks, modern minimalist outdoor designs, brightening shaded backyard areas, and more.
Pros:
1. It offers much better water resistance, so it is considered a good option for coastal, rainy, or poolside areas.
2. It can be modified and is available in various colors and textures.
3. It is easy to clean and has a longer lifespan.
Cons:
1. It is more expensive and not a cost-effective option compared to WPC decking.
2. Like many others, it also has expansion/contraction issues, depending on temperature.
3. It can significantly heat up under direct sunlight.
- Uncapped Composite Decking: Uncapped composite decking is one of the main types of composite decking. Unlike capped composite decking, here we don’t have protective outer layers or shells. It is mostly made from blending recycled wood fibers and plastics. In simple words, it is capped composite decking, but here we don’t have an outer protective polymer cap.
Pros:
1. It is generally more affordable and cheaper compared to capped composites.
2. It offers the appearance that gives the same feeling and look as natural wood.
3. Although it is less resistant, it can still be resistant to rotting and pest infestation, giving it an upper hand against traditional wood.
Cons:
1. One of its disadvantages is that it is less resistant to moisture, staining, and fading.
2. There is a chance of mold or mildew if your structure is in a damp environment.
3. Unlike capped composite boards, it requires more maintenance.
Cost Of Different Types of Composite Decking
Till now, we have discussed all the main types of composite decking, but the main question is that what do they cost? Now, let’s discuss the cost of all types of composite decking per square foot and the cost including installation in 2025.
| Types Of Composite Decking | Average Cost Per Sq ft |
| Solid Composite Decking | Ranges from $15 to $39 |
| Hollow Composite Decking | Ranges from $30 to $60 |
| Capped Composite Decking | Ranges from $40 to $80 |
| Uncapped Composite Decking | Ranges from $32 to $79 |
| Wood-Plastic Composite Decking | Ranges from $40 to $80 |
| Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Composite Decking | Ranges from $25 to $45 |
| Tongue and Groove Composite Decking | Ranges from $35 to $85 |
Factors That Affect Composite Decking Costs
Research shows that not utilizing accurate cost estimates and calculations leads to more than 35% of budget and cost overruns in construction. When you are in need of installing a deck with either a complex or simple design, it is important to identify what influences the cost, as it will enable you to plan, quote, and carry out the budgeting exercise without omitting anything.
Size and Thickness: The size is one of the most influential aspects that influence the cost of a deck. How wide are composite deck boards, and the larger the size of the deck that is required to be installed, the higher the cost will be. The thickness is also important as it adds strength and durability to the deck, and these two aspects will, in turn, be reflected in the cost.
Design: The construction of the deck would also greatly affect the price, greatly. Such as a flat single-story deck with no stairs or rails will cost less than one maintaining stairs. Decks with mismatched design patterns like multi-level, hexagonal, or curbed decks have to be brought into shape, thus hiking material cost and labor cost.
Site Conditions: Structural and site conditions also impact the cost of deck installation. If you are looking to replace an old deck, the ground needs to be leveled, or optimizations required to ensure structural integrity, the cost will change accordingly.
Labor Cost: The more complex your design is, the more skilled a team is required, while the size of the deck defines how much labor would be required, so labor costs and wages in your current region also impact your deck installation cost.
Market Rates: The material, machinery, tools, and other equipment depend on the market rates. So, it is a better idea to consult your suppliers, vendors and analyze the market before starting the project.
Type of Deck: Some decking parts and types cost differently. Such as Capped composite decks cost more compared to uncapped composite decks.
Average Cost Of Building a Composite Deck in 2025
The national average deck price is about $8,157, but the cost of installing a composite deck can range from $5100 to $12,480, depending upon several factors we’ve discussed in the above section.
If you are looking to install a deck but with a simple design, not many features, and a small size, then the lowest in which you can get it done is near to $3,500. Some large and complex composite decking projects even exceed to more than $20,000, so in the end, it all depends.
To install a composite deck, you would also require a workforce and labor. The labor costs and wages can vary in states, but the average labor cost to build a deck ranges from $15 to $48 per square foot. The cost can also change depending on the size of the deck. For example, the cost for a 20` x 20` composite deck can cost between $16,000 $32,000, and more.
| Deck Size | Average U.S. Price Range |
| 8` x 10` ( 80 sq ft ) | Ranges between $3,200 and $6,400+ |
| 10` x 10` ( 100 sq ft ) | Ranges between $4000 and $8000+ |
| 12` x 12` ( 144 sq ft ) | Ranges between $5,749 and $11,500+ |
| 10` x 20` ( 200 sq ft ) | Ranges between $6,000 and $12,000+ |
| 12` x 20` ( 240 sq ft ) | Ranges between $9,599 and $19,199+ |
| 16` x 16` ( 256 sq ft ) | Ranges between $10,250 and $15,400+ |
| 14` x 20` ( 280 sq ft ) | Ranges between $11,199 and $16,800+ |
| 12` x 24` ( 288 sq ft ) | Ranges between $11,519 and $17,280+ |
| 16` x 20` ( 320 sq ft ) | Ranges between $12,799 and $19,199+ |
| 20` x 20` ( 400 sq ft ) | Ranges between $16,000 and $23,999+ |
Which is better? Professional team or DIY
Constructing a composite deck if you have technical carpentry skills, doing it yourself can save you a lot, which can reduce the overall cost. The positive aspects are that you can customization, make design choices, and scheduling is fully up to you. But one of the drawbacks is that it can take time if you are doing it alone, and there are many chances of errors and mistakes. Additionally, you have to purchase or rent all the machinery and equipment, such as circular saws, drills, frames, wood material, etc.
All the risks and problems that you might face while doing it yourself can be avoided if you hire a team of professionals. As, professional team has more experience and excess to advanced tools, making evaluations, estimations, calculations, and construction flawless, without any errors. They also engage in the local building codes, licenses, and permits, and ensure that the project is not overdue.
Concisely, the cost of hiring a professional team will be higher than the cost of doing it yourself. However, employing professionals will also imply fewer chances of oversights, blunders, and tardiness.
Conclusion
In this blog, we’ve discussed everything regarding composite decking and factors impacting cost, types, cost per square foot, and more. All the costs are up-to-date according to the latest market rates in the US, 2025. Whether you are looking forward to installing complex or simple composite decks for the surroundings of your swimming pools, walkways, patios, and other indoor or outdoor applications, through our guide, you won’t have any difficulties in determining the costs.
FAQs
What is the actual life span of composite decking?
Although it depends upon multiple factors such as type, quality, and how well it is maintained. But in general, the majority of the composite decking lasts between 25 to 50 years, and more.
How much will it cost me to install a deck around a swimming pool?
The average cost for the installation of a composite deck around a swimming pool can be anywhere from $3000 to $30,000, and more, depending upon factors such as the size of the deck, composite materials required, the design, and labor cost. If you are looking to build a deck with stairs, it can cost you a few thousand dollars to 10,000 dollars, and more. On average, each step can cost you somewhere around $25 to $55.
Can composite deckings be painted or stained?
Yes, absolutely, composite decking can be painted and stained, but it all depends. For example, uncapped composite deckings can be painted or stained, while capped composite deckings are not designed for that.
What is the average cost of composite decking per square foot in 2025?
The average cost of composite deck boards per square foot in 2025 ranges from around $25 to $60, depending on brand, quality, and complexity of the installation. The materials cost can be around $16 to $31.99 per sq ft, while labor cost can range from $24 to $50. However, the total cost for a composite deck, everything combined, including materials and installations, is between $40 and $80.
