Outdoor Living
Composite vs Wood Decks in Maryland: Which Is Right For You?
January 8, 2025 · 6 min read
Building or rebuilding a deck in Maryland in 2025? Here's how composite and pressure-treated wood actually compare on price, maintenance, and lifespan — from a contractor who installs both every season.
Upfront cost
In Baltimore County, Carroll County, and Howard County, pressure-treated decks typically install at $45–$60 per square foot. Composite decks usually run $70–$120+ per square foot depending on the board line (Trex, TimberTech, Deckorators) and railing system.
Maintenance
Pressure-treated wood needs staining or sealing every 2–3 years to look good in Maryland's freeze-thaw climate. Composite is a wipe-down with soap and water. Over a 20-year ownership window, composite usually wins on total cost when you add labor and stain.
Lifespan
A properly framed and maintained pressure-treated deck lasts 15–20 years before boards start to need replacing. Composite boards carry 25–50-year warranties depending on the line. Frames on both should be properly hung and flashed regardless of board material.
Look
Modern composite has come a long way — many boards are now multi-tone and grain-patterned and look believable from a normal viewing distance. Wood, though, still has the unbeatable "real wood smell and feel" that some homeowners want.
Heat
Dark composite decking can get noticeably hotter than wood in direct summer sun. If your deck faces south or west in Maryland, choose lighter composite tones.
Our recommendation
If you plan to be in the home 7+ years, composite is the better long-term decision. If you're remodeling on a budget or planning to sell soon, pressure-treated is still a strong, code-compliant choice.
See more on our deck and porch construction page, or get a free estimate for your new deck or rebuild.
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