Composite vs Wood Decks Near the Chesapeake Bay

If you live near the Chesapeake Bay in Anne Arundel County, your deck takes more abuse than most. Salt air, high humidity, and intense summer sun all accelerate wear. Here's how composite and wood decking compare for Bay-area homes.

Pressure-Treated Wood

Cost: Most affordable upfront ($15,000 – $25,000 for a basic 12x16 deck).

Durability near water: Requires annual cleaning, sealing, and staining to prevent rot. Near the Bay, expect to restain every 1-2 years. Lifespan: 15-20 years with diligent maintenance.

Best for: Budget-conscious homeowners willing to maintain the deck annually.

Cedar / Redwood

Cost: About 20% more than pressure-treated.

Durability near water: Naturally rot-resistant, but still needs periodic sealing. The salt air won't destroy it, but it will gray quickly without treatment. Lifespan: 20-25 years.

Best for: Homeowners who want a natural wood look and don't mind some maintenance.

Composite Decking (Trex, TimberTech)

Cost: 25-65% more than pressure-treated, depending on the tier.

Durability near water: This is where composite shines near the Bay. No rotting, no splintering, no annual staining. The capped polymer surface resists moisture, mold, and UV fading. Premium composites come with 50-year warranties.

Best for: Bay-area homeowners who want a low-maintenance deck that holds up to salt air.

Our Recommendation

For homes in Severna Park, Annapolis, Arnold, Edgewater, and other waterfront communities, we almost always recommend composite. The higher upfront cost pays for itself within 5-7 years in saved maintenance. Use our deck estimate calculator to compare pricing for different materials.