DIY Builds
Photo by Stevanus Praska Pexels Logo Photo: Stevanus Praska

How long does composite wood last for?

25 to 30 years Composite decks have a lifespan of at least 25 to 30 years — and their manufacturers have warranties to match. At Keystone Custom Decks, we primarily build using Trex and TimberTech composite decking products.

How do I keep rodents out of my shed?
How do I keep rodents out of my shed?

Walk the perimeter of your shed and look for any holes or cracks. You want to seal any that are larger than the size of a dime, as most mice will...

Read More »
What is a Barndominium?
What is a Barndominium?

A barndominium, also known as a barndo, is an open concept steel building with large square footage that combines living space and a working area....

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

An outdoor living space, specifically one built around a composite deck, is an investment. When you make an investment like that, you want to make sure your space looks immaculate and performs for decades. That’s one of the main advantages of our preferred composite material: the average composite deck lifespan is at least 25 to 30 years, and can span even longer. At Keystone Custom Decks, we build using Trex and TimberTech composite decking, both of which are known for their gorgeous styles and long lifespans. When homeowners ask us how long do composite decks last, we start with the minimum 25 to 30 year span covered by the warranty — but we also let them know that composite decks can last far longer. Learn more about the science that contributes to the outstanding composite deck lifespan, the strengths of composite decks, and the warranties that back these luxury products.

How Long Does a Composite Deck Last?

From our experience, composite decking is the most durable, least maintenance-intensive product on the market. So, how long does a composite deck last? A minimum of 25 to 30 years with the possibility of it lasting from 30 to 50 years. In addition to being the manufacturer-reported number, third party testing can also help confirm the lifespan of a deck. While the average wooden deck has a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, composite products far exceed wood decks due to the engineered nature of the product. Composite deck boards are made by molding real wood and synthetic fibers into boards and capping them with a vinyl shield. This production process extends composite decking lifespan by preventing the damage that destroys cheaper wooden decks. Fun fact: Composite decks also help prevent plastic pollution because they use recycled plastic that might otherwise end up in landfills! Here’s how composite handles the 3 most common issues that limit the lifespan of wooden decks:

[block-list]

Mold & Rot — When mold grows on the surface of a wooden deck, it’s only a matter of time before the deck begins to rot and fall apart. While mold growth destroys wooden deck boards, composite boards are impervious to it — so while it is unsightly, it won't ruin your deck. This is one of the major factors behind composite decking’s superior lifespan. Discoloration — In addition to wooden decks becoming structurally unsound, they show their age in a way that composite decks don’t. While the ultra-durable composite material keeps its color, wooden decks fade and start to resemble driftwood rather than the luxury product they did when new. This is one of the reasons that composites decks can be 25 or 30 years old and still look new. In fact, color is one of the major things covered by composite manufacturer warranties. The color in composite decking goes all the way through the board, so it shouldn't chip or scratch off, either. Splintering — Another advantage of the engineered capped-composite product: it doesn’t splinter like wooden decks do. It’s not uncommon to see wood deck boards splinter and break apart at the 10 year mark. Since this doesn’t happen with composite products, it expands the usable lifespan. In addition, cleaning composite decking should be a breeze. Here is an article that tells you all about how to clean your composite deck.

Does Irish Spring soap keep away mice?
Does Irish Spring soap keep away mice?

The bottom line is the perfumes in this soap tell mice, rats, chipmunks, and other critters to stay clear. Irish Spring comes in different scents...

Read More »
Do pole barn posts need to be in concrete?
Do pole barn posts need to be in concrete?

Also, be aware that simply setting posts in concrete will not prevent rot. The wood won't be in contact with the ground, but moisture is absorbed...

Read More »

[/block-list]

Learn more about how to maintain composite decking.

Trex and TimberTech Composite Decking Warranties

One of the best ways to evaluate how much confidence to have in a product is to see how confident the manufacturer is in the product. Composite decks have a lifespan of at least 25 to 30 years — and their manufacturers have warranties to match. At Keystone Custom Decks, we primarily build using Trex and TimberTech composite decking products. Their warranties reflect the minimum possible life you can expect from one of these luxury materials.

Trex Decking Warranty

Trex composite decking is backed by a 25-year stain and fade warranty that ensures the color will not dramatically fade or become discolored.

TimberTech Decking Warranty

TimberTech composite deck boards are backed by a 30-year product warranty that covers the color as well as the integrity of the product. You can feel confident to build with these composite products thanks to the manufacturer warranties from these two leading brands — and the Keystone Custom Decks warranty as well.

Skilled Composite Deck Installers

Whether you’re in the earliest steps of your research or you’re ready to move forward, Keystone Custom Decks is ready to be your deck-building partner. If you have more questions about composite decking material, or you’re ready to schedule your design consultation, you can start the conversation today!

We also offer other outdoor living services, including:

And more!

We have decades of experience as premier composite deck builders in Pennsylvania and New York. See some of our showpiece custom decks — and get your free quote today!

Is prefab house safe?
Is prefab house safe?

These homes are entirely safe for several reasons. Firstly, prefab homes are constructed as per the building codes and regulations. And throughout...

Read More »
Do composting toilets stink?
Do composting toilets stink?

Does composting toilets smell bad? When people consider the new idea of compost toilets, they assume the toilet would stink up the house. They...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »
Do I need planning permission for a shepherds hut on my land?
Do I need planning permission for a shepherds hut on my land?

The simple answer is the shepherd's hut itself doesn't need planning permission, it's what you are doing with it that may do. Is a shepherd's hut...

Read More »
These are the Best Shed Plans!
These are the Best Shed Plans!

Comprehensive and Intuitive to follow. Build That Shed!

Learn More »
What is a shed home?
What is a shed home?

Now, another hybrid has arrived on the scene—the shome, or shed-meets-home—and it's taking the she-shed to a whole new level. Rather than tricked-...

Read More »