Composite decking costs $40 to $80 per square foot installed on average, including the substructure. A 20'x20' composite deck costs $16,000 to $32,000 total. Composite decking surface materials alone cost $4 to $16 per square foot. Composite decks cost more than wooden ones but last twice as long.

Composite decking combines wood fibers with synthetic elements such as plastic, providing a robust building material alternative to conventional wood. Composite deck materials are for the deck surface and railings, not the framing or substructure.

If you want a deck that doesn't require resealing and resists water damage, then composite decking is worth it. The extra strength of composite materials make them harder to scratch, and they even repel pests.

Composite decking can last 25 to 50 years with regular cleaning when installed properly by a qualified builder. This extended lifespan is due to the capped materials that are well-sealed to make the planks more resistant to the elements.

New composite decking can increase home value in these ways:

• Giving you an ROI of 30% to 40% upon resale of the home
• Boosting curb appeal to potential home buyers
• Raising overall property value in some counties

While composite decks can improve the total property value, a deck won't increase your home's livable square footage. Only a fully enclosed and insulated space can add square footage.

If you use the lowest setting and spray at an angle, then you can power wash some types of composite decking. Always read the deck manufacturer's manual and cleaning guidelines to prevent damages that can void the warranty.

Typically, you can only paint or stain uncapped composite decking, so consult your deck supply company to confirm if your model is paintable. Otherwise, the paint application may not adhere fully.

• Deck painting costs $2 to $5 per square foot.
• The cost to stain a deck is $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot.

Some brands of composite decking are slippery when wet if they don't have a well-defined woodgrain surface pattern. You can request an extra anti-slip coating on your deck planks to increase the traction and prevent falls.

Consider adding special textured stair treads or rubber mats to the deck for extra safety.

Before hiring a composite deck installer near you, be sure to:

• Compare 3+ bids from licensed, bonded, and insured deck contractors.
• Request a list of references from past clients.
• Ask your neighbors or a local home improvement store if they know good local deck builders.
• Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
• Beware of the cheapest bid that can indicate low-quality building results.

Ask if they have certifications like:

• Credentials from the deck vendor or manufacturer
• A state contractor's license
• Membership in The North American Deck and Railing Association

Talk to a deck builder about the following key points before construction starts:

• How many years of experience do you have in building composite decks?
• Which deck types and sizes are the most popular around here, and why?
• Can you show me photos of your past composite decking projects?
• What deck design do you recommend for my property?
• Which features cost extra beyond the initial quote?
• How are additional expenses addressed if they arise?
• Which composite decking brands are best?
• Is there a manufacturer's warranty on the composite materials used?
• How long is the installation process?
• Who should I contact with concerns, and how many workers are on your team?
• How much of a deposit do you need to start?
• Do you provide a guarantee on your installation labor?
• Who handles getting the required permits?
• Does the quote include a substructure, labor, materials, deliveries, and cleanup?
• How will you manage debris disposal?
• Are all your subcontractors licensed and insured?