Messages and Online Forum Q&A

Re: Synthetic or pressure treated deck

From: info@builderswebsource.com
Category: Decks
Remote Name: 63.198.181.43
Date: 17 Nov 2002
Time: 12:23 AM

Comments

You're debating between traditional pressure-treated decking vs. synthetic decking, such as Trex. However, your contractor is asking a $16,000 premium for synthetic vs. pressure treated (based on 1,300 square feet). We agree that this difference sounds excessive. While synthetic lumber does cost more per square foot than pressure-treated pine, this doesn't account for the difference you mention. Synthetic lumber sometimes needs closer spacing of joists, which may account for part of the difference. Typical installed costs of pressure treated decks are in the $15-18/square foot range, whereas synthetic decks are in the $20-25/square foot range. Redwood and Cedar are the most expensive, costing $30/square foot or more depending on the grade of wood. We like using stainless steel screws to minimize corrosion. These cost a little more but are worth it in our opinion. One thing to consider is that Wolmanized lumber (a variant of pressure treatment) that uses CCA, contains arsenic. This is being phased out during 2003 and will no longer be permitted in most structures. Newer alternatives are emerging to replace CCA. Annual cleaning and resealing of wood can cost $1/square foot or more. As a result, synthetic decks, while more expensive initially, will be cheaper over the lifecyle of the deck. Ultimately, aesthetics also play a role. Synthetic decks look, well, synthetic. They can fade over time as well. The rough surface can trap dirt which, when combined with moisture, produces mildew on the surface. Of course, this can be pressure washed from time to time to keep it looking new. If you decide to use traditional lumber, we do not recommend using CCA-treated lumber, as this will be outlawed very soon. Click here for a good comparison between synthetic and wood decks from This Old House archives.

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