Composite and PVC Decks

Wood decking is typically less expensive upfront, but requires costly and time-intensive maintenance down the road. On the other hand, composite decking costs more initially but requires far less upkeep over time.

In Minnesota, composite decking is often about 1.5x to 2x the cost upfront compared to basic wood. However, the long-term cost gap is smaller than it appears.

Wood decks require:
• Staining or sealing every 1–2 years
• Ongoing repairs and board replacement

These maintenance costs can add up significantly over time, while composite decking is low-maintenance and designed to last decades. 

Bottom line:
Wood is cheaper to build. 
Composite is more expensive upfront, but often the better long-term investment. 

Most homeowners today choose composite because it offers longer lifespan, less maintenance, and a more consistent appearance over time.

For most homeowners in Minnesota, composite or PVC decking is the best overall choice due to its durability, low maintenance, and ability to handle harsh weather.

Minnesota decks are exposed to snow, ice, moisture, and freeze-thaw cycles, which can be tough on traditional materials.

Why composite and PVC perform best:
• Moisture resistance: Helps prevent rot, cracking, and warping during seasonal changes.
• Durability in extreme weather: Handles temperature swings without breaking down like wood.
• Low maintenance: No regular staining or sealing required.

What about wood?
Wood can still be a good option for a natural look and lower upfront cost, but it requires ongoing maintenance and is more prone to weather-related wear.

Bottom line:
Composite and PVC offer the best combination of longevity, low maintenance, and performance in Minnesota.

We only build with industry-leading low-maintenance materials because they consistently deliver the best long-term results for our clients.

The main difference between composite and PVC decking comes down to what they’re made of, and how they handle moisture over time. Composite decking is made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastics, while PVC decking is made from 100% synthetic materials with no organic content.

Here’s how that impacts performance:

Moisture resistance: PVC offers the highest level of protection since it contains no wood. Composite is still very durable, but because it includes wood fibers, it can be more vulnerable to moisture over time if not fully protected. This is especially important in Minnesota, where decks are exposed to snow, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles.

Durability: PVC is the most resistant to moisture, mold, and long-term wear. TimberTech’s fully-capped composite and PVC products are designed to perform better in damp or low-airflow environments.

Heat performance: PVC decking is typically less dense, which allows it to disperse heat more efficiently. As a result, it often stays cooler underfoot and disperses heat quicker compared to composite decking. 

Appearance: PVC decking often has a more natural, wood-like look. Composite tends to have a more uniform finish, especially in lower-end lines.

Cost: While there is some overlap, composite is generally more budget-friendly, while PVC sits at the higher end due to its performance and longevity.

Bottom line:
Composite offers a strong balance of appearance and value, while PVC provides the highest level of durability and moisture protection. Products like TimberTech, with full 4-sided capping, are built to perform especially well in harsh climates like Minnesota.

We help clients choose the right product based on how the space will actually be used, not just upfront cost. 

For homeowners looking for long-term durability, non-wood framing options like steel, aluminum, and composite framing are some of the best choices for Minnesota decks. These materials are designed to handle moisture, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles without the movement and deterioration that can come with traditional wood framing.

Steel framing: One of the most durable options available. It won’t warp, rot, crack, or shrink, and it stays extremely straight over time—making it ideal for high-end decks where long-term stability matters.

Aluminum framing: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and highly stable. It performs well in wet environments and is a great option for projects where moisture resistance and precision are priorities.

Composite framing: Offers a middle ground, with improved resistance to moisture and decay compared to wood, while still being easier to work with than metal systems.

Why these perform well in Minnesota:
• No rot or organic breakdown
• Minimal expansion and contraction
• Better long-term stability through seasonal changes

Bottom line:
While wood framing is still common, steel, aluminum, and composite framing offer superior long-term performance—especially for homeowners investing in a deck built to last decades in Minnesota’s climate.

We use these systems regularly on high-end builds where long-term stability and finish quality matter. 

Minnesota weather can be very demanding on decks, which is why material choice and proper construction matter so much.

One of the biggest factors is repeated freezing and thawing.
• Moisture gets into materials, then expands when it freezes
• This can cause cracking, shifting, and long-term wear
• Especially impactful on wood and improperly built structures

Decks are exposed to:
• Snow accumulation
• Ice buildup
• Spring melt and heavy rain

This constant moisture can lead to:
• Rot and decay (in wood)
• Mold or mildew buildup
• Structural stress over time

Minnesota sees extreme temperature changes from winter to summer.
• Materials expand and contract
• Lower-quality decking can warp, crack, or loosen over time
• Proper spacing and installation are critical

Even in colder climates, sun exposure still affects decks:
• Can cause fading or discoloration
• Breaks down lower-quality materials over time

Because of these conditions:
• Materials need to be moisture-resistant and stable
• Structures must be built to handle movement and load changes
• Details like spacing, flashing, and ventilation matter more

Composite and PVC decking are specifically designed to handle:
• Moisture without rot
• Expansion and contraction
• Long-term exposure to harsh conditions

Bottom line:
Minnesota’s weather puts a lot of stress on outdoor structures, from freeze-thaw cycles to moisture and temperature swings.

We design and build decks with these conditions in mind—so they hold up long-term, not just in the first few seasons.

A deck may need to be replaced based on a combination of age, condition, and structural integrity.

Age is a major factor
• Wood decks: typically last ~10–20 years depending on maintenance
• Composite/PVC decks: often last 25–50+ years

If your deck is approaching or beyond its expected lifespan, it’s worth taking a closer look—even if it still appears okay on the surface.

Common signs it may need replacement
• Structural movement: Deck feels bouncy, soft, or unstable. There may be noticeable shifting or settling. 
• Rot or deterioration: There is soft or spongy wood (especially in framing), visible rot, mold, or decay. 
• Loose or failing components: Wobbly railings or stairs, loose fasteners, and/or separating connections. 
• Cracking, splitting, or warping: Boards or framing members showing significant wear. Twisting or cupping of materials.
• Ledger or attachment issues: Gaps where the deck connects to the house, or signs of water damage near the ledger. 

When repair vs. replacement makes sense
• Minor issues can often be repaired
• Widespread or structural issues typically require full replacement

If multiple areas are failing, replacement is usually the more cost-effective long-term solution.

Even if the surface boards look okay, underlying framing may be compromised—so it’s important to evaluate the entire structure, not just what’s visible.

Bottom line:
If your deck is older or showing signs of movement, rot, or structural wear, it may be time for replacement.

We help assess existing decks to determine whether repair makes sense or if a full rebuild is the better long-term investment.

Sometimes—but in many cases, it’s not recommended, especially when upgrading to composite or PVC decking.

An existing frame may be reused if it is:
• Structurally sound (no rot, movement, or damage)
• Built to current code standards
• Supported by footings that meet current code (including proper depth and sizing)
• Properly spaced and aligned

Even then, it needs to be carefully evaluated before moving forward.

Why it’s often not a good fit:

1. Joist spacing issues
• Older decks are often built at 16" or 24" on center
• Most composite/PVC decking performs best at 12" on center

2. Footings not up to code
• Many older decks have shallow or undersized footings
• May not meet Minnesota’s frost depth (~60”) requirements
• Can lead to long-term movement or failure

3. Hidden damage
• Framing may look fine but have internal rot or weakening
• This is often not fully visible until the deck is opened up

4. Outdated construction methods
• Older decks may not meet current code or best practices
• Ledger attachment, flashing, and hardware may need upgrading

In many cases, rot or structural issues aren’t fully discovered until demolition has already started, meaning: 
• Repairs can become more expensive than expected
• You’re already committed to the layout and structure
• It limits the ability to redesign or improve the deck

While reusing framing can seem like a cost savings upfront, it often introduces:
• Risk
• Uncertainty
• Reduced lifespan of the new decking

For most projects—especially with low-maintenance materials—it’s better to build a new, code-compliant frame and foundation that matches the lifespan of the decking.

Bottom line:
Reusing a deck frame is sometimes possible, but often not the best long-term solution—especially when footings and hidden conditions are factored in.

We evaluate each structure carefully, but in most cases recommend rebuilding so the entire system performs consistently and avoids surprises mid-project.

Choosing the right deck builder comes down to experience, process, and trust—not just price.

Not all builders specialize in the same work
• Do they build custom decks, or mostly basic projects?
• Do they have experience with low-maintenance materials, porches, or pergolas?
• Can they handle complex designs and structural requirements?

Review past work
• Look at real project photos, not just stock images
• Check for consistency in quality and attention to detail
• See if their style aligns with what you want

A good builder should have a clear, organized process for:
• Design and planning
• Permits and approvals
• Communication during the build
• Project management and scheduling

Ask about communication
• Will you have a dedicated point of contact (Project Manager)?
• How often will you receive updates?
• How are questions or changes handled?

Check licensing, insurance, and reviews
• Properly licensed and insured in Minnesota (our license number is CR806901)
• Strong reviews and reputation
• Willingness to stand behind their work

Don’t choose based on price alone. Lower bids can sometimes mean:
• Corners being cut
• Lower-quality materials
• Less experienced crews

Focus on overall value, not just upfront cost.

The right builder should make you feel confident in:
• The design
• The process
• The final result

Bottom line:
The best deck builder is one with the experience, process, and communication to deliver a high-quality result—not just the lowest price.

We focus on a structured process, clear communication, and detailed execution so homeowners know exactly what to expect from start to finish.

Yes—all contractors should be properly licensed and insured, no exceptions.

In Minnesota, residential contractors are required to be licensed through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.

This ensures they:
• Meet state requirements
• Follow building codes and regulations
• Are legally allowed to perform the work

The Lakeside Decking license number is CR806901. Any contractor you use should be able to provide you with their unique license number, which can be verified through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry's iMS system (instructions here). 

A reputable contractor should carry:
• General liability insurance (protects your property)
• Workers’ compensation insurance (protects you from liability if someone is injured)

Without proper insurance, homeowners can be exposed to serious financial risk.

Lakeside Decking is insured through Farmer's Insurance - please ask us if you would like to see proof of coverage. 

Minnesota also has a Contractor Recovery Fund through the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
• Provides financial protection to homeowners
• May offer compensation if a licensed contractor fails to meet obligations or causes loss
• Only applies if the contractor is properly licensed

Hiring a licensed and insured contractor:
• Protects you legally and financially
• Ensures accountability
• Gives you access to state-backed protections if needed

Bottom line:
Yes—your contractor should always be licensed and insured, no exceptions. It’s one of the most important safeguards in your project, and something every reputable builder will have in place.

Yes—we offer financing through Upgrade to help make your project more manageable.

We partner with Upgrade to provide a select range of competitive financing options, including:
• Monthly payment plans
• Plans with deferred interest for the promotional period
• Fixed rates and predictable payments
• Flexible terms based on your project and approval

When financing makes sense
• Spreading out the cost instead of paying everything upfront
• Moving forward with your project sooner
• Keeping flexibility in your budget for larger or more detailed builds

What to expect
• Simple application process
• Quick decisions in most cases
• Clear terms before you commit

Financing allows you to move forward with the design and materials you actually want—without needing to scale things back.

Bottom line:
Yes—we offer financing through Upgrade with a few strong, competitive options.

We make the process straightforward and transparent so you can focus on the project—not the payment logistics.