Last summer, as I watched my husband spend yet another Saturday sanding and staining our 12-year-old wood deck—only for it to fade again by Labor Day—I had an epiphany: There has to be a better way.
We’d been debating replacing our deck for years, but the decision between wood and composite felt overwhelming. Wood is classic, but composite promises no splinters, no staining—just more time actually using the space instead of maintaining it. Still, I had doubts. Would it look cheap? Overheat in the sun? Would it even last?
After months of research (and probably driving my family insane with deck-related chatter), I stumbled upon Dominion Custom Decks’ composite deck installation guide. Their breakdown wasn’t just a sales pitch—it was a practical, no-nonsense comparison that finally helped us make a confident choice.
Here’s what we learned, why we ultimately went with composite, and how it’s holding up in Bristow’s unpredictable weather.
Understanding the Composite Decking Trend
Composite decking isn’t new, but its popularity has exploded in recent years—especially in humid climates like ours. According to the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA), composite now makes up nearly 40% of all decking material sales, up from just 15% a decade ago.
Why the shift? A few key reasons:
Low Maintenance: No sanding, staining, or sealing required—just occasional soap-and-water cleaning.
Durability: Resists fading, warping, and insect damage better than traditional wood.
Eco-Friendly Options: Many composites use recycled materials, a big selling point for sustainability-minded homeowners.
But here’s what surprised me: not all composites are created equal. Dominion’s guide explained the differences between capped composite (a protective shell around the board) and uncapped (more prone to staining and fading). They also highlighted how newer formulations stay cooler underfoot—a major concern for our barefoot-friendly backyard.
What Does a Composite Deck Actually Cost?
Let’s talk numbers. Initially, I balked at composite’s higher upfront cost—about 20-30% more than pressure-treated wood. But Dominion’s cost breakdown showed how those numbers balance out over time:
| Expense | Pressure-Treated Wood | Composite |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $15-$25/sq ft | $20-$35/sq ft |
| Annual Maintenance | $300-$500 (stain, sealant) | $50 (cleaning) |
| Lifespan | 10-15 years | 25-30 years |
When we factored in time saved (no more annual staining marathons) and resale value (composite decks boost home value more than wood), the math made sense.
We also learned that hidden costs—like special fasteners or additional framing for heavier composites—could add up. Dominion’s team walked us through every line item so there were no surprises.
Why Composite Works for Bristow
Our climate poses unique challenges:
Humidity accelerates wood rot (we’ve all seen those spongy deck boards).
Freeze-thaw cycles cause cracks in traditional wood.
Pollen and mold mean constant cleaning.
Composite handles all three better. Dominion’s team even recommended specific brands that perform well in Virginia’s weather, like Trex Transcend (heat-resistant) and Fiberon Horizon (mold-resistant).
One unexpected perk? No splinters. Our kids (and dog) can run around barefoot without us worrying.
The Installation Process
We assumed composite would be a quick swap for wood—wrong! Proper installation matters just as much as the material. Dominion’s crew:
Reinforced the frame (composite is heavier than wood).
Used hidden fasteners for a seamless look (no visible screws).
Left proper gaps for expansion during humid summers.
The whole project took 10 days, including a custom curved edge we added last-minute (because why not?).
6 Months Later: Was It Worth It?
The verdict? 100% yes.
No maintenance: A quick hose-down keeps it looking new.
Cooler than expected: The lighter color stays comfortable even in July.
Still looks great: No fading or warping after a brutal winter.
Our only regret? Not doing it sooner.
Conclusion
If you’re debating composite vs. wood, don’t just take the sales rep’s word—or mine. Check out Dominion’s composite deck guide for a local perspective. Their transparency helped us make an informed choice, and now we’re reaping the benefits every time we relax outside instead of sanding.
Tags: #CompositeDeck #BristowHomes #LowMaintenance #OutdoorLiving #HomeImprovement
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