Composite vs. Wood Decking: 15-Year Total Cost of Ownership Calculator
While composite decking carries a 20-50% higher upfront installation premium than pressure-treated lumber, it reaches price parity in total cost of ownership by year 12 due to the elimination of biennial staining and sealing costs — but this break-even point is highly sensitive to the initial cost of professional labor, which accounts for roughly 50-60% of total project investment.