Skip to content
Two investors reviewing resources on a laptop

Get industry-leading resources — for free

Unlock resources for every investing strategy and stage with a free account.

By continuing, you agree to BiggerPockets LLC's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Followed Discussions Followed Categories Followed People Followed Locations
General Landlording & Rental Properties
All Forum Categories
Followed Discussions
Followed Categories
Followed People
Followed Locations
Market News & Data
General Info
Real Estate Strategies
Landlording & Rental Properties
Real Estate Professionals
Financial, Tax, & Legal
Real Estate Classifieds
Reviews & Feedback

User Stats

91
Posts
14
Votes
Christopher Boggs
  • Cleveland Heights, OH
14
Votes |
91
Posts

Wood vs. Composite Decking Material

Christopher Boggs
  • Cleveland Heights, OH
Posted

I am in the middle of a rehab on a future rental property. The current decking was only 2x4's and was damaged by a leaking roof, so I have to replace the decking boards and railing. I can't decide whether to use composite or treated wood. I know composite has lower maintenance, but wood is cheaper. My buddy owns a lumber yard so he gave me some pretty good prices on some closeout Trex Origins Composite. Also both prices below include brackets, screws, etc.

Approximate Rent - $900
House has blue vinyl siding
Deck has a brand new roof over it
I just installed a new support beam, posts, and sistered the roofing joists

Treated Wood Decking and Railing - $640
Trex Origins (grey) Composite Decking and Railing - $1140

What do you guys think I should do?

Does anyone know how long the paint/stain would last on a wood deck that is covered?

This picture was taken before I finished installing the new beam, but here you go - http://imgur.com/WQa7H

Most Popular Reply

User Stats

80
Posts
28
Votes
Thom H.
  • Investor
  • Central Virginia Area, VA
28
Votes |
80
Posts
Thom H.
  • Investor
  • Central Virginia Area, VA
Replied

Randy,
When you do this long enough, you'll see renters do everything under the sun! Grills on decks are nothing...Hey, maybe a good post to start..."what's the stupidest thing your tenant has done to you rental?!"

Loading replies...