Utah's climate is genuinely tough on decks: high-altitude UV, 100°F summers, freeze-thaw winters, and a 30°F daily temperature swing in spring and fall. The right material matters more here than almost anywhere else.
Pros: Cheapest upfront ($25–$35/sq ft installed), easy to repair, warm look.
Cons: Needs re-staining every 2–3 years in Utah's UV. Boards crack, cup, and check faster than in milder climates. 10–15 year typical lifespan.
Pros: 25–30 year warranties. No staining, no splinters, no annual maintenance. Modern composites are heat-rated and UV-stable.
Cons: Higher upfront cost ($45–$65/sq ft). Some lower-tier composites get hot in Utah summer sun — choose lighter colors and brand-warranted heat-resistant lines.
For most homeowners, composite wins. Total cost of ownership over 25 years is lower, the maintenance hassle disappears, and modern composites handle Utah's UV better than wood. If your budget is tight, choose pressure-treated and commit to staining religiously — or wait and save for composite.
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