Thinking about building a new deck or replacing an old one? Two of the most popular choices today are aluminum decks vs composite decks. Both offer durability, low maintenance, and a sleek modern look, but they also have their differences. So, how do you decide which one is best for your home?
Let’s break it all down so you can confidently choose the right deck for your space.
What is an Aluminum Deck?
An aluminum deck is made entirely of—you guessed it—aluminum. But don’t picture a plain metal sheet; aluminum decking comes in different styles and finishes that look like traditional wood planks. The biggest reason people love aluminum decks is because they’re incredibly strong, lightweight, and completely resistant to rot, rust, and bugs.
What is a Composite Deck?
A composite deck is made from a mix of wood fibers and plastic. It’s designed to look like wood but without all the upkeep. Composite decking has become one of the most popular deck materials because it’s durable, resists moisture, and doesn’t need staining or sealing like traditional wood decks.
Now, let’s compare the two!
Durability: Which One Lasts Longer?
Both aluminum and composite decks are known for being durable, but aluminum has the edge when it comes to longevity.
Aluminum Decks
- Won’t rot, warp, or crack.
- Resistant to rust, mold, and mildew.
- Can last 50+ years with little to no maintenance.
- Doesn’t absorb moisture, so no swelling or shrinking.
Composite Decks
- Designed to resist rot, mold, and insects.
- Can last 25-30 years with proper care.
- Can fade or stain over time, depending on the quality of the material.
- Some brands offer warranties up to 30 years.
Winner: Aluminum. It lasts longer and doesn’t absorb moisture, making it the stronger choice.
Maintenance: Which One is Easier to Take Care Of?
Nobody wants to spend their weekends cleaning or repairing a deck, so let’s see which one requires less upkeep.
Aluminum Decks
- No staining, sealing, or sanding required—ever.
- Just rinse with water or mild soap to clean.
- Resistant to mold, mildew, and stains.
Composite Decks
- Doesn’t need staining or painting, but can collect dirt over time.
- Needs occasional scrubbing to prevent mold or mildew buildup.
- Can scratch, which may require repairs on some boards.
Winner: Aluminum. It requires the least amount of maintenance compared to composite.
Slip Resistance: Which One is Safer?
If you have kids, pets, or live in a rainy area, you’ll want to choose a deck that’s not too slippery when wet.
Aluminum Decks
- Often designed with textured surfaces for extra grip.
- Water drains quickly, reducing the chance of puddles.
- Great for pool decks and wet environments.
Composite Decks
- Some brands have slip-resistant coatings, but not all.
- Can get slippery if water sits on the surface.
- Better than wood but may not be as slip-resistant as aluminum.
Winner: Aluminum. Its water-shedding properties make it the safer option in wet conditions.
Heat Resistance: Which One Stays Cooler in the Sun?
A hot deck can make barefoot summers uncomfortable, so heat retention is important.
Aluminum Decks
- Heats up in direct sunlight, but cools down faster than composite.
- Light-colored aluminum decks reflect heat better.
Composite Decks
- Absorbs and retains heat, especially darker colors.
- Can be very hot to the touch in peak summer months.
Winner: Aluminum. It doesn’t hold heat as long as composite, making it a better choice for sunny areas.
Aesthetics: Which One Looks Better?
Both materials offer stylish options, but they have different looks.
Aluminum Decks
- Sleek, modern appearance.
- Available in different colors and finishes, but doesn’t fully mimic wood.
- Best for contemporary and industrial-style homes.
Composite Decks
- Designed to look like real wood, with wood grain textures and natural colors.
- More variety in colors, styles, and finishes.
- Works well with both modern and traditional homes.
Winner: Composite. If you want a natural wood look, composite is the way to go.
Cost: Which One is More Budget-Friendly?
Aluminum Decks
- Typically more expensive upfront, costing $15–$25 per square foot.
- Lower long-term costs since it lasts longer and needs less maintenance.
Composite Decks
- Costs between $10–$20 per square foot, depending on the brand.
- May need occasional repairs or board replacements over time.
Winner: Composite (for upfront cost), but Aluminum (for long-term value). If you have a higher budget and want a deck that will last a lifetime, aluminum is the better investment.
Which One is Better for the Environment?
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly deck, both aluminum and composite have their benefits.
Aluminum Decks
- Made from recycled aluminum, making it one of the most sustainable decking options.
- 100% recyclable at the end of its lifespan.
Composite Decks
- Made from a mix of recycled wood and plastic, reducing waste.
- Not always recyclable, but still a better choice than traditional wood.
Winner: Aluminum. Since it can be fully recycled, it’s the greener option.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick breakdown of who should choose what:
Choose Aluminum if:
- You want a deck that lasts 50+ years.
- You prefer minimal maintenance and easy cleaning.
- Your deck will be near a pool or in a rainy climate.
- You care about eco-friendly materials.
Choose Composite if:
- You want the most realistic wood look.
- You have a tighter budget for the initial cost.
- You prefer a warmer, traditional style.
- You don’t mind a little maintenance from time to time.
Both materials are great options, and it really comes down to your priorities.
Which One Holds Up Better Over Time?
When it comes to longevity, both aluminum and composite decks have their strengths, but aluminum takes the top spot.
Aluminum Decking
- Can last 50+ years with little to no signs of wear.
- Doesn’t warp, crack, or splinter like traditional wood.
- Completely resistant to mold, mildew, and insect damage.
- No need for sealing, staining, or repainting—just install it and enjoy!
Composite Decking
- Designed to last around 25–30 years, which is still impressive.
- Resistant to rot, termites, and moisture, but not completely immune to fading over time.
- Can expand and contract slightly in extreme temperatures, which may cause some warping if not installed properly.
- Requires occasional deep cleaning to prevent buildup of mold, algae, or grime.
If you’re looking for a deck that will last a lifetime with minimal upkeep, aluminum is the clear winner. But if you want something that mimics the feel of wood with lower maintenance, composite is still a solid choice. Either way, both materials beat traditional wood in terms of durability and ease of care.
FAQ: Aluminum Decks vs Composite Decks
Is aluminum decking noisy?
Not really! High-quality aluminum decking is designed with sound-dampening technology, so it doesn’t sound like a tin roof when you walk on it.
Do composite decks fade over time?
Yes, some composite decking can fade after years of sun exposure, but higher-end brands have UV protection to reduce fading.
Can aluminum decks rust?
No! Aluminum does not rust, making it a great choice for wet or humid environments.
Which deck is better for cold climates?
Both work well in cold weather, but aluminum is better because it doesn’t crack or warp due to freezing temperatures.
Does composite decking scratch easily?
Some lower-end composite boards can scratch, but premium brands are more resistant to wear and tear.
Build Your Dream Deck with Deck Bros!
Still not sure which deck material is right for you? Let Deck Bros help! Our team specializes in aluminum and composite deck installations, so you’ll get expert advice and high-quality craftsmanship.
Contact Deck Bros today at (402) 369-5724 to schedule a consultation and start building the perfect deck for your home in Omaha!