The Pacific Northwest is hard on decks. The combination of wet winters, UV exposure in summer, and temperature swings through the year accelerates the deterioration of wood decking faster than in drier climates. We've built decks in this region since 2014, and we've also replaced a lot of decks that were built by others. Here's what we've learned about material choice.

Pressure-treated lumber: the baseline

Pressure-treated lumber is the most common decking material and the least expensive upfront. It holds up reasonably well in the Pacific Northwest if it's maintained. Sealed every two to three years, kept clear of debris that holds moisture. The problem is that most homeowners don't maintain it on that schedule, and untreated pressure-treated decking in this climate will show significant checking, graying, and potential rot at the end grain within five to eight years. It's a viable material for the right homeowner.

Cedar: better looking, similar maintenance demands

Western red cedar is a beautiful decking material and naturally more rot-resistant than pressure-treated pine. It's also more expensive. Roughly 40 to 60 percent more per linear foot than pressure-treated. Cedar still requires regular sealing to maintain its appearance and resist moisture infiltration. Unsealed cedar in Whatcom County will gray quickly and begin to check within three to four years. For homeowners who want the look of natural wood and are committed to maintenance, cedar is a good choice.

Composite decking: the maintenance argument

Trex Transcend and TimberTech Azek are the two composite products we install most often. Both are made from a combination of wood fiber and recycled plastic, and both carry warranties of 25 years or more against fading, staining, and structural failure. The upfront cost is higher than wood. Typically 30 to 50 percent more for the decking material alone. But the maintenance requirement is minimal: an annual wash with soap and water. For homeowners who don't want to think about their deck every spring, composite is the practical choice.

What we recommend and why

For most homeowners in Bellingham and Whatcom County, we recommend composite decking for new builds. The Pacific Northwest climate is exactly the environment where the maintenance savings of composite pay off most clearly. The one exception is budget-constrained projects where the upfront cost difference is a real constraint. In those cases, pressure-treated with a commitment to maintenance is a reasonable choice. We'll always give you an honest comparison of both options before you decide.

Deck material choice is one of the decisions that's worth spending time on before construction starts, because it's not easy to change later. If you're planning a deck build this summer, we're happy to walk through the options during the estimate conversation. Deck season is short in the Pacific Northwest. The sooner the planning starts, the better.