Stop Staining! How Composite Decking Saves Illinois Homeowners Time & Money Year-Round

IC Build
Jun 4
2 min read

Updated: 19 hours ago

Maintaining a beautiful deck in Illinois's diverse climate can be a daunting task.

Traditional wood decks require regular staining, sealing, and repairs to combat the effects of harsh winters, humid summers, and everything in between.

Enter composite decking—a low-maintenance, durable alternative that's gaining popularity among homeowners in Woodridge, Naperville, Barrington, Plainfield, and surrounding areas.

The Hidden Costs of Wood Deck Maintenance

While wood decks may have a lower initial cost, the ongoing maintenance expenses can add up quickly.

Here's a breakdown of typical annual maintenance tasks and their associated costs:

Staining and Sealing: $300–$500 per year
Power Washing: $100–$200 per year
Repairs (e.g., replacing warped or rotted boards): $200–$500 per year

Over a 10-year period, homeowners can expect to spend between $6,000 and $12,000 on maintenance alone. This doesn't account for the time and effort required to perform these tasks or coordinate with contractors.

Composite Decking: A Low-Maintenance Solution

Modern grey composite deck in Plainfield, Illinois featuring durable outdoor furniture and a spacious layout, perfect for relaxing and entertaining in the Chicago suburbs

Composite decking, made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic, offers a virtually maintenance-free alternative to traditional wood.

Key benefits include:

No Staining or Sealing: Composite decks retain their color and finish without the need for annual treatments.
Durability: Resistant to rot, mold, and insect damage, composite decking stands up to Illinois's varying weather conditions.
Longevity: Many composite decking products come with warranties of 25 years or more, ensuring long-term performance

By eliminating the need for regular maintenance, homeowners can save thousands of dollars and countless hours over the life of their deck.

Environmental and Aesthetic Advantages

Beyond the practical benefits, composite decking also offers environmental and aesthetic advantages:

Eco-Friendly Materials: Many composite decking products utilize recycled materials, reducing environmental impact.
Consistent Appearance: Composite boards are manufactured for uniformity, providing a clean, polished look.
Variety of Styles: Available in a range of colors and textures, composite decking can mimic the appearance of natural wood or offer a more contemporary look.

Cost Comparison: Wood vs. Composite Decking

While composite decking has a higher upfront cost—typically $40 to $70 per square foot installed compared to $15 to $35 for wood—the long-term savings are significant.

Considering the maintenance expenses associated with wood decks, composite decking often proves more cost-effective over time.

Expense Category	Wood Deck	Composite Deck
Initial Cost	$9,000	$18,000
Maintenance	$6,000	$0
Total	$15,000	$18,000

While the composite deck has a higher initial cost, the absence of maintenance expenses narrows the cost gap over time. Additionally, the value of time saved and the enjoyment of a consistently beautiful deck contribute to the overall benefits.

Local Expertise: IC Build, LLC

At IC Build, LLC, we specialize in designing and constructing composite decks tailored to the needs of Illinois homeowners.

Our team understands the challenges posed by the local climate and works with top-quality materials to ensure your deck remains beautiful and functional year-round.

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