The Rise of Composite Wood Decks: The New Craze of 2023

One trend has emerged and solidified its place in the decking industry—the use of composite wood for decks. This blend of wood fibers and plastic has become the dominant decking trend, representing a significant shift away from traditional materials.

The Allure of Composite Wood

• Durability: Composite wood resists rot, decay, and insect damage better than traditional wood, offering longevity even in harsh weather conditions
• Low Maintenance: Unlike natural wood requiring constant sanding, staining, and sealing, composite materials need only periodic cleaning
• Aesthetic Appeal: The material maintains wood's visual appeal without the associated upkeep

The Environmental Impact

Composite materials use recycled wood and plastic, making them environmentally preferable to virgin timber harvesting. This appeals to eco-conscious homeowners seeking to reduce waste and conserve our planet's resources while still enjoying beautiful outdoor living spaces.

A Deck for Every Home

Whether you're in Cardiff, Carlsbad, Coronado, Del Mar, Encinitas, La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, or Solana Beach, composite decking offers solutions for every property type. The versatility of composite materials means there's a style and color to match any home's architecture.

Choosing the Right Composite Wood

Composite wood comes in a variety of colors and finishes. Consider your home's exterior color scheme, your personal style preferences, and how the deck will be used when selecting materials. Our team can help guide your selection to ensure the perfect match.

Caring for Your Composite Deck

Maintenance involves cleaning with mild soap and water regularly. That's it. Composite requires substantially less care than natural wood, freeing up your time to actually enjoy your outdoor space rather than maintain it.

Verification note (updated March 26, 2026): This article is informational only. Fire-hazard mapping, code requirements, defensible-space rules, insurance treatment, and material acceptance can vary by parcel, product, and AHJ. Confirm current requirements with official California sources and your local building department, fire authority, or insurer before relying on an article for compliance decisions: OSFM FHSZ maps, OSFM Wildland Hazards and Building Codes, BOF Zone 0 / Defensible Space updates, and CAL FIRE Ready for Wildfire.