What to Compare
Compare Composite Decking (Trex/TimberTech) and Pressure-Treated Wood using cost, pvc decking cost, maintenance. Check the exact product or local service proposal, then request matching written terms before choosing for your Florida home. Use the differences below to identify the questions that matter for your project.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
Composite Decking (Trex/TimberTech)
Features and considerations
- No sealing, staining, or sanding required
- Resists Florida's moisture, UV, and insects
Limits and questions
- Scratches can be harder to repair invisibly
Pressure-Treated Wood
Features and considerations
- Can be repaired easily with matching lumber
Limits and questions
- Splinters, warps, and cracks in Florida heat and humidity
- PT lumber treated with copper can corrode some metal fasteners
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Composite Decking (Trex/TimberTech) | Pressure-Treated Wood | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (installed, per sq ft) | Request an itemized quote for Composite Decking (Trex/TimberTech); compare the same scope and payment period. | Request an itemized quote for Pressure-Treated Wood; compare the same scope and payment period. |
| PVC Decking Cost | Request an itemized quote for Composite Decking (Trex/TimberTech); compare the same scope and payment period. | Request an itemized quote for Pressure-Treated Wood; compare the same scope and payment period. |
| Maintenance | Minimal — occasional wash | Ask the Pressure-Treated Wood provider to document maintenance for the exact offer. |
| Lifespan in Florida | Ask for evidence for the exact Composite Decking (Trex/TimberTech) product or local service; match it to your project conditions. | Ask for evidence for the exact Pressure-Treated Wood product or local service; match it to your project conditions. |
| Heat in Florida Sun | Warm — capped composite cooler | Hot but dissipates quickly |
| Mold/Mildew Resistance | Ask for evidence for the exact Composite Decking (Trex/TimberTech) product or local service; match it to your project conditions. | Ask for evidence for the exact Pressure-Treated Wood product or local service; match it to your project conditions. |
| Termite Risk | None | PT lumber treated but not immune |
| Fit for your project | Ask the Composite Decking (Trex/TimberTech) provider to document current quote and terms for the exact offer. | Ask the Pressure-Treated Wood provider to document current quote and terms for the exact offer. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does composite decking get too hot in Florida?
Choose lighter colors and capped products for Florida sun-exposed decks.
How long does a pressure-treated wood deck last in Florida?
Ask each provider to give a written expectation for the exact Composite Decking (Trex/TimberTech) and Pressure-Treated Wood product or service being proposed. Clarify preparation, site conditions, maintenance and exclusions that could affect the result or schedule.
Consumer resources
Use these official resources when evaluating an offer. They provide general guidance and do not establish a winner between these options.
- FTC: checking home-repair offers and written agreements — General consumer guidance; not evidence of either brand's price or performance.