Composite vs. Pressure-Treated: Best Decking Material for Ontario Homes

Choosing a decking material for your Ontario home isn’t just about what looks nice in a Pinterest photo. It’s about durability through snow and sun, upkeep in real life, and yes — how much it costs to install and maintain over the years. Whether you’re in Newmarket, Aurora, Keswick, or anywhere across York Region, the question we hear most is:

“Should I go with composite or pressure-treated wood?”

We’ve built hundreds of decks using both. This blog walks you through everything you need to know to make the right choice for your home, your lifestyle, and your wallet.

What Is Pressure-Treated Wood Decking?

How It’s Made (And Why It’s So Common in Ontario)

Pressure-treated wood is usually softwood (like pine) that’s been infused with chemicals to resist moisture, rot, and bugs. This treatment makes it an affordable option that can hold up — at least for a while — against Canada’s freeze-thaw cycles.

Because of its low upfront cost, pressure-treated decking is still the go-to for many homeowners doing their first deck build, or upgrading a small backyard patio.

We’ve installed dozens of ground-level decks in Newmarket using pressure-treated lumber — especially in older neighbourhoods where budget is a top concern.

Pros and Cons of Pressure-Treated Wood

✅ Advantages

• Cost-effective – you’ll spend less to build upfront
  
  

• Easy to replace or repair if boards get damaged
  
  

• Classic wood grain feel that ages into a grey patina if left untreated
  
  

❌ Disadvantages

• Needs sealing every 1–2 years to prevent rot
  
  

• Can warp, crack, or splinter — especially on second-storey or elevated decks
  
  

• Colour fades quickly, requiring stain if you want it to look good over time
  
  

Thinking of replacing an old pressure-treated deck? Our Deck Replacement & Removal service safely takes down aged structures and preps your yard for something better. 

What Is Composite Decking?

A Durable, Low-Maintenance Deck Option for Modern Backyards

Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled plastic and wood fibres, usually capped in a hard shell that resists fading, staining, and water damage.

We’ve seen more and more clients in Aurora and Holland Landing request composite for their second-storey decks and pool deck installations, thanks to its long lifespan and minimal maintenance.

Pros and Cons of Composite Decking

✅ Advantages

• 25–50 year lifespan with virtually no structural degradation
  
  

• Won’t rot or splinter like traditional wood
  
  

• No staining or sealing required
  
  

• Available in dozens of modern colours and finishes
  
  

❌ Disadvantages

• More expensive than wood upfront
  
  

• Feels hotter to walk on during peak summer
  
  

• Some brands may still look slightly artificial, though this has improved drastically
  
  

Learn more about finish options and colour-matching ideas on our Composite Decking page.

What Material Lasts Longer in Ontario Weather?

Ontario Climate: A Deck’s Worst Enemy

We all know what winter can do to outdoor materials. Add in spring rain, summer heat, and fall moisture... your deck needs to survive 12 months of abuse — every year.

Composite decks shine here. They don’t absorb water like pressure-treated boards, which means they resist:

• Warping
  
  

• Cracking
  
  

• Rotting
  
  

• Mildew and mould buildup
  
  

XP Decking Field Insights

We replaced a 10-year-old pressure-treated deck in Bradford that had twisted boards and popped nails — common signs of water damage. Meanwhile, a composite wraparound deck we built in Aurora eight years ago? Still looks brand new.

Not sure which option works best for your space? Book a Deck Design & Installation consultation — we’ll show you samples and real builds. 

Is Composite Decking Worth the Extra Cost?

Short answer: yes — if you want long-term value.

Let’s break it down:

Timeframe         -        Composite Decking         -         Pressure-Treated Deck

Upfront Cost       -        $$$                                     -         $

Annual Maintenance    -      $0–$50 (cleaning)       -        $150+ (staining/sealing)

Repairs in 10 Years      -      Rare                            -        Likely (board replacement, fasteners)

Real Case: Aurora Family Upgrade

A client in Aurora was tired of sealing their pressure-treated deck every two years. After one too many rotted boards, they made the switch to composite. Eight years in? No regrets, no maintenance headaches.

We broke down similar examples in our Blog: Deck Repair or Replace. 

What's Trending in York Region?

Pressure-Treated Wood: Still in Demand

We still install plenty of pressure-treated decks in:

• Rental properties or investment homes
  
  

• Starter homes with small yards
  
  

• Temporary structures like basic pergolas and entry decks
  
  

Want a custom pressure-treated build? Explore Pressure Treated Decking for ideas.

Composite Dominates Modern Builds

Homeowners across Newmarket and Keswick are going composite for:

• Wraparound decks with built-in lighting
  
  

• Low-maintenance pool decks
  
  

• Covered decks and 3-season sunrooms
  
  

Want to keep the area under your deck dry too? We often combine composite with our Deck Waterproofing system — great for storage or patio use underneath.

🛠 How XP Decking Helps You Choose

Choosing a deck material shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. Here’s how we guide you:

Step-by-Step Support

• We visit your home for a site inspection
  
  

• Bring material samples to see how they look with your exterior
  
  

• Help you weigh budget, longevity, and aesthetic
  
  

• Handle permits, footings, and structural planning
  
  

• Offer optional add-ons like Deck Lighting and Benches & Railings
  
  

We also specialize in elevated deck installations, pool surrounds, and pergolas/cabanas. 

FAQs: Composite vs. Pressure-Treated in Ontario

1. What lasts longer in Ontario — composite or pressure-treated?

Composite decking easily outlasts pressure-treated wood, especially in Ontario’s climate, where temperature swings and humidity take a toll on natural lumber. On average, pressure-treated decks last 10–20 years, depending on maintenance. In comparison, composite decking can last 25–50 years with minimal upkeep.

Composite boards don’t absorb water or swell like wood. They’re built with a protective cap that resists UV, mould, and rot, meaning you’ll avoid common issues like splintering, cracking, and board warping. For homeowners in Newmarket, Aurora, or Keswick, that means fewer repair calls and longer enjoyment.

At XP Decking, we often combine composite surfaces with deck waterproofing systems to protect structures from moisture underneath — especially for second-storey or elevated decks. The result is a longer-lasting, cleaner, and safer outdoor living space.

2. How often does pressure-treated wood need maintenance?

Pressure-treated wood needs regular care to stay strong and attractive. We typically recommend:

• Sealing every 12–18 months to protect against moisture and rot
  
  

• Cleaning once or twice a year with a wood-safe cleaner
  
  

• Staining every 2–3 years to preserve colour and prevent UV fading
  
  

In Ontario’s freeze-thaw environment, unsealed wood can expand and contract, leading to cracked boards and nail pops. Neglecting maintenance can reduce a deck’s lifespan by 30–40%.

If your pressure-treated deck has seen better days, it might be time to consider our Deck Replacement and Removal service. We’ll inspect the structure, replace damaged boards, and suggest upgrades like composite or cedar decking for better longevity.

3. Does composite get too hot in the summer?

It’s true — dark-coloured composite decks can heat up under direct sunlight, especially on south-facing properties. However, modern composite manufacturers have greatly improved heat-reflective technology, making newer boards far cooler to the touch than older versions.

You can easily control surface temperature by:

• Choosing lighter shades like grey, beige, or sand tones
  
  

• Adding deck shading structures, such as covered decks or pergolas and cabanas
  
  

• Incorporating vented deck design that allows airflow beneath the boards
  
  

In many of our Aurora and Bradford installations, homeowners pair composite decks with custom pergolas to keep the area cool and shaded during peak summer hours. This setup not only improves comfort but also adds a stylish, modern touch to your backyard.

4. Can I mix materials — composite boards with wood framing?

Absolutely — and it’s one of the most cost-efficient strategies for homeowners in Ontario. Many of our clients choose a hybrid deck system, where:

• The structure and framing use pressure-treated wood (for affordability and strength)
  
  

• The decking surface is made from composite boards (for low maintenance and durability)
  
  

This method gives you the best of both worlds — a sturdy frame and a maintenance-free surface. With proper design and deck waterproofing, the underlying wood stays dry and protected for decades.

We’ve built several hybrid decks in Newmarket and East Gwillimbury, where homeowners wanted long-term reliability without the full cost of a composite subframe. During your deck design consultation, we’ll walk you through these options, material combinations, and sample boards to help you choose what fits your needs best.

5. Do I need a permit in Newmarket?

Yes — in most cases, a building permit is required for any new deck construction in Newmarket, Aurora, and other York Region municipalities.
Here’s when you’ll typically need one:

• Your deck is over 24 inches above ground
  
  

• It’s attached to your home
  
  

• It includes a roof, railing, or stairs
  
  

• It affects existing grading or drainage
  
  

Each town’s regulations vary slightly. For example, Newmarket requires detailed drawings, material specs, and structural details before approving deck permits. The good news? XP Decking handles all of that for you.

We take care of the permit application, inspections, and engineering details so you can focus on design and finishes. You can also read our detailed guide:
👉 Deck Permits in Newmarket – What You Need to Know.

📞 Ready to Build Your Dream Deck?

Whether you’re going composite for the long haul or sticking with budget-friendly pressure-treated, XP Decking is here to help. We’ve built it all — from curved decks in Aurora to multi-tier platforms in Keswick.

📍 Serving: Newmarket, Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Keswick, Bradford, and surrounding York Region.

👉 Get a Free Estimate Today
👉 Explore Deck Design & Installation
👉 Need removal first? We handle that too