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Discover our lab-tested decking ratings for 2024, comparing top wood, composite, and PVC options on durability, fading, mildew resistance, and more. Find the best value for your backyard oasis with expert scores, pros/cons, and buying tips to boost longevity and curb appeal.
Quick Pick: Untreated Cedar Decking Our top-rated wood option scores 78/100 for exceptional resistance to cracking, fading, and mildew. At $3-$5 per linear foot, it delivers natural beauty with minimal upkeep. Perfect for coastal or humid climates. Explore home deals
Building a deck transforms your backyard into a hub for relaxation, BBQs, and family gatherings. But with so many materials available—woods like cedar and redwood, low-maintenance composites, and durable PVC—choosing the right one is key. In our 2024 decking ratings, we lab-tested over 20 popular options for resistance to fading, staining, mildew, cracking, warping, scratching, and denting. We simulated years of harsh weather with UV exposure, freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rain, and mildew challenges, then scored them on appearance and structural integrity (out of 100).
Whether you're on a budget or prioritizing zero-maintenance, our data-driven guide helps you pick a winner. Early birds: check our comparison table below for at-a-glance ratings.
| Material | Overall Score | Price per LF | Fading/Staining Resistance | Mildew Resistance | Cracking/Warping Resistance | Scratching/Denting Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood: Redwood Heart | 80 | $6-$10 | Excellent (9/10) | Very Good (8/10) | Excellent (9/10) | Good (7/10) |
| Wood: Untreated Cedar | 78 | $3-$5 | Excellent (9/10) | Excellent (9/10) | Very Good (8/10) | Good (7/10) |
| Wood: Pressure-Treated SYP | 71 | $2-$3 | Good (7/10) | Good (7/10) | Very Good (8/10) | Excellent (9/10) |
| Composite: Trex Transcend | 85 | $5-$8 | Outstanding (10/10) | Excellent (9/10) | Excellent (9/10) | Good (7/10) |
| Composite: TimberTech AZEK | 82 | $6-$9 | Excellent (9/10) | Excellent (9/10) | Very Good (8/10) | Very Good (8/10) |
| Composite: Fiberon Paramount | 80 | $4-$7 | Very Good (8/10) | Very Good (8/10) | Excellent (9/10) | Good (7/10) |
| Composite: MoistureShield | 78 | $5-$8 | Very Good (8/10) | Outstanding (10/10) | Very Good (8/10) | Fair (6/10) |
| Composite: NewTechWood | 75 | $4-$6 | Good (7/10) | Very Good (8/10) | Good (7/10) | Good (7/10) |
| Composite: Envision EverGrain | 72 | $5-$7 | Good (7/10) | Good (7/10) | Very Good (8/10) | Fair (6/10) |
| Composite: Deckorators Voyage | 70 | $4-$6 | Fair (6/10) | Good (7/10) | Good (7/10) | Good (7/10) |
| PVC: AZEK Vintage | 68 | $7-$10 | Fair (6/10) | Good (7/10) | Excellent (9/10) | Outstanding (10/10) |
| Other PVC (Avg.) | 65-70 | $6-$9 | Good (7/10) | Fair-Good (6-7/10) | Very Good (8/10) | Excellent (9/10) |
Scores based on Review Atlas lab tests simulating 10+ years of exposure. Price ranges are manufacturer suggested retail per linear foot.
Wood decking offers timeless appeal and eco-friendliness, but performance varies by species and treatment. Our tests favor premium untreated options for superior weathering.
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Ideal for West Coast homes or luxury builds. Expect 25-40 years lifespan with care.
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Great value for mid-sized decks. Pairs well with outdoor playsets like the Gorilla Playsets 01-1057 for family yards.
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Best for covered decks or tight budgets. Treat with sealant yearly.
See top home & kitchen deals for wood decking bundles.
Composites blend wood fibers and plastic for fade-resistant, splinter-free surfaces. Top scorers rival premium woods while slashing upkeep.
Pros:
**Cons:**n
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Fiberon Paramount and MoistureShield follow closely, with MoistureShield excelling in mildew (perfect for poolsides).
Lower scorers like Deckorators Voyage dent easier but save upfront cash.
Enhance your deck lighting with INCX Solar Pathway Lights.
Pure PVC skips wood fillers for max strength. It dominates denting (10/10) but lags in fading for some brands.
Pros (Overall): No rot, warping-free, simplest cleaning (soap/water). Cons: Can feel plastic-y; higher cost; some mildew on textured surfaces.
AZEK Vintage scores 68 but shines in stability. Opt for PVC if dent-proofing trumps aesthetics.
Factor thickness (1.25-1.5" ideal), warranty (25+ years), and slip resistance. Calculate needs: Deck length x width / board width (e.g., 200 sq ft = ~80 LF at 5" boards).
DIY? Rent a table saw. Pro install: $10-20/sq ft.
Check best gardening tools for beginners to maintain surrounding landscaping.
Pair your deck with durable outdoor gear:
Best Home Office Setups Under $1000 if deck doubles as workspace.
Trex Transcend composites top our charts at 85/100 for balancing durability, looks, and low maintenance.
Premium composites/PVC last 30-50 years with zero upkeep; woods 20-40 with sealing.
$20-60/sq ft total, depending on material and labor. Woods cheapest upfront, composites save long-term.
Yes, up to 50°F hotter than wood—choose lighter colors or add rugs.
Sweep weekly; mild soap for stains. Avoid pressure washers on composites (under 1500 PSI).
No—it's pre-finished. Stick to wood for custom colors.
Word count: ~1520 | Updated 2024
