Composite Decking: Complete Buying Guide 2026
Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic. It will not rot, splinter, or require staining, and modern capped composites closely mimic the look of natural wood with minimal maintenance. In 2026, composite decking prices average $8.00 per sq ft, with a typical range of $4.00 to $14.00 depending on your region, supplier relationships, and order quantity.
When budgeting for a project using composite decking, factor in approximately 8% additional material for waste, plus labor costs averaging $4.00 per sq ft for professional installation. A typical project using this material runs approximately $9,500 including both materials and labor.
With an expected lifespan of 30 years, composite decking represents a cost of approximately $0.27 per sq ft per year of service life. This solid lifespan provides good value for most residential and commercial applications.