TimberTech Decking vs. Re-Surfx: How to Achieve a Beautiful, Long-Lasting Deck for 1/5 the Price

When it comes to building or renovating a deck, homeowners often find themselves caught between two costly options: investing in a premium composite decking brand like TimberTech or sticking with traditional wood, which requires ongoing staining and maintenance. Both routes have their advantages, but each comes with a steep price tag. Thankfully, there’s a smarter alternative that combines affordability with durability—Re-Surfx acrylic polymer coatings. By building with wood and coating it with Re-Surfx, you can achieve the same polished, long-lasting look of TimberTech at nearly one-fifth of the cost.

The Appeal of TimberTech

TimberTech is one of the leading composite decking brands on the market, known for its beautiful wood-look boards that resist rot, splintering, and fading. These boards are manufactured using a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic, giving them an upscale finish that appeals to homeowners looking for a low-maintenance deck.

However, quality comes with a hefty price tag. The average cost of TimberTech decking can range between $60–$70 per square foot installed, depending on the line chosen. For a medium-sized 300-square-foot deck, that’s easily an investment of $18,000–$21,000. While TimberTech does last for decades with minimal upkeep, not every homeowner wants—or can afford—to pay premium prices.

The Cost of Traditional Wood Decking

The other common choice is to build a deck from pressure-treated lumber or cedar. Wood decking is typically much less expensive upfront, costing around $20–$25 per square foot installed. That same 300-square-foot deck would run around $6,000–$7,500, making it far more affordable than TimberTech.

But wood has its drawbacks. Without proper sealing, staining, or painting, wood decks are vulnerable to warping, splitting, mold, and fading from UV exposure. Homeowners often find themselves re-staining or re-painting their deck every 2–3 years, spending thousands of dollars over the lifespan of the deck. The ongoing maintenance costs add up, making wood a less-than-ideal long-term investment.

Re-Surfx: The Best of Both Worlds

This is where Re-Surfx coatings change the game. Re-Surfx is an industrial-strength acrylic polymer coating designed to protect and beautify wood surfaces. When applied to a traditional wood deck, Re-Surfx locks out moisture, resists UV damage, and creates a durable, slip-resistant surface that looks as good—or better—than high-end composite decking.

Unlike typical deck stains or paints that peel and fade within a few years, Re-Surfx penetrates and bonds with the surface to form a long-lasting barrier. The result is a wood deck that mimics the look and performance of premium composite boards at a fraction of the cost.

A Fraction of the Price

The real advantage lies in the numbers. By building a standard wood deck and then applying Re-Surfx, the total installed cost can average $12–$15 per square foot. For that same 300-square-foot deck, you’re looking at just $3,600–$4,500 total.

That means Re-Surfx offers a finished deck for up to 80% less than TimberTech, while still delivering comparable durability and aesthetics. Essentially, you’re getting the same high-end look and performance for one-fifth the price.

Reduced Maintenance, Increased Value

Homeowners who choose Re-Surfx-coated decks also enjoy reduced maintenance costs. Unlike traditional stains that require re-application every few years, Re-Surfx coatings are engineered for longevity. That means fewer weekends spent sanding and staining, fewer dollars spent on supplies, and a deck that maintains its beauty year after year.

Beyond saving money, a Re-Surfx deck enhances curb appeal and property value. Homebuyers appreciate outdoor living spaces that are both attractive and low-maintenance, making a Re-Surfx-coated deck a selling point if you ever put your home on the market.

The Smarter Decking Choice

While TimberTech may be a great option for those with unlimited budgets, Re-Surfx offers a smarter and far more affordable solution. By leveraging the natural strength of wood and protecting it with a high-performance coating, homeowners can achieve the luxury look of composite decking without draining their wallets.

If you’re looking for a deck that delivers beauty, durability, and long-term value at a fraction of the cost, Re-Surfx is the clear choice. Why spend five times more when you can enjoy the same results for less?

View our Re-Surfx DIY kit for those Do-It-Yourselfers out there.

Please contact us if you have any questions. We look forward to hearing from you.