Deck Construction
6 minutes

Why Composite Decking is the Smart Choice for Your Los Angeles Property

Choosing the right decking material can be a game-changer for outdoor spaces in Los Angeles and Orange County. In a climate where sun, heat, rain, and coastal air are constant factors, the materials you use need to hold up over time. While traditional wood may offer a timeless look, it often requires extensive maintenance to look its best.

Composite decking offers an alternative that’s both durable and low-maintenance, making it ideal for versatile outdoor spaces that last. Specifically built to resist fading, warping, and cracking, many composite decking solutions keep their appearance with minimal effort. The right material isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that can handle natural elements and still look great year after year.

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What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking consists of deck boards made from either 100% synthetic materials or a mix of wood fibers and plastics. These boards are designed to resist moisture, fading, and wear over time. Unlike traditional wood, composite decking features a protective outer layer that adds durability and shields the core from the elements, making it an ideal choice for low-maintenance, long-lasting outdoor spaces.

Major composite decking brands include TimberTech, Trex, Deckorators, and Fiberon. Each has its own unique technology to create durable decking boards. At LA Decks, we are TimberTech Decking Platinum Pros and have an extensive portfolio of composite decking commercial and residential projects.


Residential exterior featuring aluminum siding Los Angeles with sleek Vinyl finishes

Why Homeowners and Businesses in LA & OC Love Composite Decking

Woods such as redwood, pine, and cedar have traditionally been used as decking materials. Yet, their low Janka hardness ratings make their resistance to natural elements, like moisture, insects, and wear, significantly lower. This results in them being more prone to warping, cracking, and decay over time, particularly in harsh climates. Constant exposure to these elements leads to frequent repairs and higher maintenance costs, making these materials less ideal for long-term outdoor use compared to composite decking.

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Low Maintenance for Busy Lifestyles

The technology behind composite decking offers homeowners and businesses the luxury of having beautiful, durable decks without the hassle of regular upkeep. Composite boards are designed to resist the common issues that plague traditional wood, such as rot, splintering, and cracking. With minimal maintenance required—no sanding, staining, or sealing—composite decking lets you enjoy your outdoor space without the burden of constant repairs.

Resistant to Elements

Composite decking brands boast that their boards can last for decades, even in extreme conditions. Whether exposed to intense sunlight, heavy rainfall, or fluctuating temperatures, composite decking is engineered to resist fading, moisture absorption, and weather-related damage. This makes it a reliable and durable option that performs well over time in both residential and commercial applications, no matter the environment.

Eco-Friendly Option

Composite decking is not just about durability; it’s also an eco-friendly choice for outdoor spaces. Most composite deck boards are made from a blend of recycled wood and plastics, helping to reduce landfill waste and the need for virgin materials. The leading composite decking brands use advanced production methods that minimize water consumption and energy use while also keeping large amounts of plastic waste—like old vinyl siding installers and grocery bags—out of the environment.

Trex decking for commercial project in LA

Comparing Composite Decking to Traditional Wood Decking

A Clear Winner for Longevity

While traditional woods, such as cedar, cypress, and pine, have their own benefits—like lower costs and a natural aesthetic that many property owners appreciate—they also come with higher maintenance demands and a shorter lifespan. For homeowners considering deck refinishing Los Angeles, these traditional woods may require frequent upkeep to maintain their appeal. Composite decking, by contrast, requires little upkeep and is designed to last for decades without the need for sanding or sealing, making it a more cost-effective option over time. Its durability makes it especially suitable for projects like rooftop deck installation, as it resists the wear and tear of outdoor elements far better than most traditional woods.

Versatility in Design

Composite decking offers a wide range of styles, colors, and textures, allowing homeowners to achieve the look of natural wood or opt for modern designs. This versatility gives property owners the freedom to match their deck with the rest of their home’s exterior, without sacrificing performance or longevity.

Tropical Hardwoods as a Durable Option

Another outdoor decking solution to keep in mind is tropical hardwoods. Tropical hardwood decks, such as ipe decks and cumaru decks, are incredibly durable and naturally resistant to insects and decay, making them an excellent long-lasting investment. While they do require annual oiling to maintain their rich appearance, their natural beauty and strength make them a popular choice for those seeking an organic aesthetic that can last decades, unlike traditional woods and chemically altered woods.

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Where Can Composite Decking Be Installed?

Residential Outdoor Spaces

Composite decking offers incredible versatility for residential use. It’s not limited to just traditional decks—consider it for patios, poolside areas, balconies, rooftops, and even outdoor kitchens. Its resistance to moisture and fading makes it ideal for high-traffic, outdoor living spaces, especially in LA’s sunny climate. Homeowners can enjoy durable, stylish outdoor areas with minimal upkeep.

Commercial Properties

Composite decking is also perfect for commercial projects. LA Decks installs composite wood decking for rooftop decks, hotel lounges, restaurant patios, and office spaces. It provides an inviting, durable space for guests while drastically reducing maintenance costs, making it a smart investment for any commercial property owner.

Venice Beach ocean-front rooftop deck and table/chairs.

Choosing the Right Installer—Why LA Decks

Choosing the right installer makes all the difference. LA Decks is a TimberTech Platinum Pro Installer with years of experience and a portfolio of successful projects across Los Angeles and Orange County. We take pride in delivering high-quality installations and personalized service, ensuring your outdoor space is crafted to your vision. Consult with our deck builders to explore custom solutions tailored to your unique needs.

Ready to Make the Switch to Composite?

If you’re considering upgrading to composite decking, LA Decks is here to help. With our 20+ years of experience in southern California and commitment to quality, we can bring your outdoor space to life with minimal maintenance and long-lasting beauty. Contact us today to schedule a free on-property consultation and get started on your project.

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