How long should a deck actually last in the Pacific Northwest?

A question with a less simple answer than most homeowners expect.

"How long will my deck last?" sounds like a simple question, but the honest answer depends on three things: the material, the maintenance routine, and how much direct rain and shade the deck actually gets. In Oregon, that last factor matters more than in drier climates.

What shortens a deck's life here.

Our wet season is hard on decks in ways that aren't always obvious until years of exposure add up.

• Standing water on boards from poor drainage or pitch
• Debris trapped between boards holding moisture against wood
• Shaded areas that never fully dry between rains
• Missed or delayed sealing and staining cycles
• Ground contact posts without proper moisture barriers

Realistic lifespans by material, in our climate.

These numbers assume reasonably regular maintenance — not a deck that's ignored for a decade.

• Pressure-treated wood: 10–15 years before major structural concerns
• Cedar: 15–20 years with regular sealing
• Composite decking: 25–30 years with minimal upkeep
• Structural framing (if properly sealed): 20–25+ years
• Fasteners and hardware: often need replacement before the boards do

The maintenance question matters more than the material.

A well-maintained wood deck can outlast a neglected composite one. What actually determines lifespan is whether water is allowed to sit, whether the structure was built with proper drainage in mind, and whether it gets basic seasonal attention.

If your deck is getting up there in years, we can take a look and tell you honestly whether it needs maintenance, targeted repair, or a full rebuild.