AntoineAsphalt.caHow Long Does a Deck Last?
Quick answer
A pressure-treated wood deck typically lasts about 15 to 20 years with proper care, according to Canadian retailer Windsor Plywood, while Trex, a composite maker, puts it lower at 10 to 15 years. Composite decks often last 25 years or more, and Trex warranties run 25 to 50 years depending on the product line. Rot in the frame, especially at the ledger board where the deck meets the house, is the main sign a deck needs more than new boards.
How many years does a wood or composite deck last?
Sources don't agree on wood, so here are both:
| Material | Windsor Plywood (April 2026) | Trex |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure-treated wood | about 15–20 years with proper care | 10–15 years |
| Cedar | 15–20 years | about 10–20 years for maintained wood |
| Composite | "often last 25 years or more" | 25–50 years by product line |
Trex sells composite decking, so keep that in mind when reading its wood figures.
Does composite decking really last 50 years?
Warranty length isn't the same as how long a deck lasts. Trex warranties are:
- Enhance: 25 years
- Select: 35 years
- Transcend, Transcend Lineage and Signature: 50 years
These are limited residential, fade and stain warranties, and terms vary by line. Trex also cites InterNACHI, which puts the average composite deck at about 25 years.
What are the signs a deck needs replacing?
Trex lists these warning signs for wood decks:
- Rot, "especially at the ledger board," and in joists and beams.
- Warping or splintering boards.
- Boards that soak up water.
Rot at connection points can lead to collapse. Trex cites US Consumer Product Safety Commission data of about 2,900 injuries and two deaths from deck, balcony and porch failures. That is US data.
Can I replace just the deck boards?
Often, yes, if the frame is sound. This is called resurfacing. Have the frame checked first, especially the ledger, joists and beams, where Trex says rot shows up.
If you want new composite boards on an old wood frame, the joist spacing has to meet the composite maker's spec. Check the install guide for the exact product.
How do I make my deck last longer?
Windsor Plywood says pressure-treated decks need "sealing or staining every few years," plus a yearly cleaning and check. Composite does "not require sealing" but still needs cleaning.
See our guide on when to stain pressure-treated wood.
What does a new deck cost?
Windsor Plywood gives project-level prices but doesn't say what deck size they're for:
| Material | Typical market range (Windsor Plywood, April 2026) |
|---|---|
| Pressure-treated | $5,000–$7,000 |
| Cedar | $10,000–$13,000 |
| Composite | $8,000–$11,000+ |
For local detail, see our deck cost guide for Hamilton.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a pressure-treated deck last in Ontario?
Windsor Plywood says about 15 to 20 years with proper care. Trex says 10 to 15 years. Care and how well the frame was built make the difference.
Can I put composite boards on my old wood frame?
Only if the frame is sound and the joist spacing meets the composite maker's spec. Have the ledger, joists and beams checked first.
How often should I re-stain a wood deck?
Windsor Plywood says pressure-treated decks need sealing or staining every few years, plus yearly cleaning.
Is a 50-year composite warranty the same as a 50-year deck?
No. Trex's longest warranties are 50 years, but it cites an InterNACHI average of about 25 years for composite decks.
Related guides & services
If your boards are worn but you're not sure about the frame, see our deck repair and resurfacing service.
A deck with rot in its frame can fail. If you find soft wood at the ledger, joists or posts, have it inspected before using the deck. Prices are third-party typical market ranges, not Antoine's prices.
Ask about your project
Contact Antoine Landscape Contractors at (647) 459-7775 or share your project details below.