The Great LA Deck Debate: Wood, Composite, or PVC? Let’s Settle This
Hey there, fellow Angeleno! Let’s talk decks. You know, that magical outdoor space where we sip iced coffee (or margaritas, no judgment) while pretending LA traffic doesn’t exist. But here’s the million-dollar question: What material should you actually use for your deck? Wood, composite, or PVC? We’ve built enough decks in Los Angeles to know the pros, cons, and hidden quirks of each—and we’re spilling the tea.
At America Green Builders, we’ve tackled everything from small bathroom remodels in Mission Hills to sprawling custom home builds in the Valley. But decks? They’re our happy place. Whether you’re pairing yours with a room addition or dreaming of a standalone oasis, let’s break down your options—with a dash of humor and zero corporate jargon. Deal?
Wood Decks: Classic Beauty… and Occasional Regret
Ah, wood. The OG of decking. It’s like that vintage leather jacket: timeless, warm, and almost worth the upkeep.
Why We Love It (Even When It’s High-Maintenance)
- Natural charm: Nothing beats the organic grain of redwood, cedar, or pressure-treated pine. It’s Insta-worthy from day one.
- Budget-friendly: Upfront costs are lower—$15–$25 per sq. ft., depending on wood type. Perfect if you’re balancing a deck build with a kitchen remodeling project.
- DIY-friendly: Easier to cut and install than composite or PVC.
But here’s the kicker: wood demands loyalty. Forget annual staining or sealing, and you’ll face splinters, warping, or worse—termites. (Because LA’s critters love free real estate too.)
When Wood Works (and When It Doesn’t)
- Best for: Short-term budgets, traditionalists, or shaded yards.
- Skip it if: You’re already juggling a garage conversion contractor or ADU contractor. Trust us—you don’t need another high-maintenance relationship.
Composite Decks: The “Set It and Forget It” Contender
Composite decking is like that low-drama friend who shows up with pizza and remembers your dog’s birthday. Made from wood fibers and plastic, it’s the middle child of decking—eager to please but occasionally overlooked.
Pros That’ll Make You Swipe Right
- Zero rot, zero termites: Perfect for LA’s moody weather (yes, we do get rain sometimes).
- Minimal upkeep: A quick hose-down keeps it looking fresh. FYI: That’s 10x easier than sanding wood at 7 AM on a Saturday.
- Long-term savings: Higher upfront cost ($25–$45 per sq. ft.), but you’ll save on maintenance and replacements.
But here’s the ~drama~: composite can get hotter than a sidewalk in July and fade slightly over time. IMO? Worth it for the Netflix-and-chill maintenance routine.
Composite’s Sweet Spot
- Choose it for: Busy homeowners, pool decks, or pairing with hardscaping projects.
- Skip it if: You’re a purist who hates synthetic textures or you’re on a tight budget.
PVC Decks: The Rebel of the Decking World
PVC decking is the Elon Musk of materials—innovative, polarizing, and definitely low-maintenance. Made entirely from plastic, it’s the new kid on the block, turning heads for all the right (and wrong) reasons.
Why PVC Might Steal Your Heart
- Waterproof warrior: Spill a margarita? Hose it off. Live near the beach? Saltwater won’t faze it.
- Colorfast forever: Unlike composite, PVC won’t fade. Your deck will stay Instagram-blue for decades.
- No mold, no splinters: Great for kids, pets, or anyone who’s ever yelled, “WHY IS THIS SO MUCH WORK?!”
But—and there’s always a but—PVC costs $35–$55 per sq. ft., and eco-warriors might side-eye its plastic content. Still, for outdoor living contractors, it’s a top pick for modern, sleek designs.
PVC’s Moment to Shine
- Go PVC for: Coastal homes, rooftop decks, or if you’re pairing it with a bathroom remodeling project (go big or go home, right?).
- Avoid it if: You’re on a budget or crave natural textures.
Let’s Get Nerdy: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Wood | Composite | PVC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per sq. ft. | $15–$25 | $25–$45 | $35–$55 |
| Lifespan | 10–20 years | 25–30 years | 30+ years |
| Maintenance | High (yearly) | Low (occasional) | None |
| Eco-Friendliness | Varies (FSC-certified = 👍) | Mixed (recycled materials) | Low (plastic) |
| Heat Resistance | Cool underfoot | Gets hot | Stays cool |
“But Wait!” – Your Top 3 Deck Questions, Answered
-
“Which material adds the most resale value?”
Composite. It’s the Goldilocks of durability and aesthetics. Buyers love hearing “no maintenance required.” -
“Can I install a deck myself?”
Wood? Maybe. Composite or PVC? Hire a deck contractor near you. Uneven installations can void warranties—yikes. -
“How do I pick the right contractor?”
Check reviews, ask about experience with your material, and confirm they’re licensed. (Shameless plug: America Green Builders has 200+ five-star reviews for decks, room additions, and even ADU builds.)
Final Thoughts: Your Deck, Your Rules
Look, there’s no “perfect” material—just the one that fits your life. Love the smell of fresh cedar? Go wood. Want to Netflix without staining? Composite or PVC’s got you.
And hey, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, that’s why we’re here. At America Green Builders, we’ve helped LA neighbors from Silver Lake to Mission Hills build decks that outlive their HOA agreements. Whether you’re pairing your project with a small bathroom remodel or need the nearest outdoor living contractor, we’ll keep it stress-free.
Ready to ditch the decision fatigue? Give us a shout—we’ll bring the blueprints, you bring the margarita mix. 😎
America Green Builders | Your friendly, no-BS Los Angeles deck contractors. Serving LA County with pride (and way too much iced coffee).
