Building a new deck is one of the best ways to upgrade your outdoor living space and increase your home’s value. But today’s homeowners have more decking material choices than ever before—and that can make it hard to decide what’s right for your backyard. Should you go with the timeless charm of wood? The low-maintenance appeal of composite decking? Or the durability of PVC decking?
At Creative Concepts & Design, we help homeowners make the best choice for their lifestyle, budget, and backyard. As a trusted deck builder in Kansas City, we combine creativity with decades of experience to design beautiful, functional spaces that go far beyond a basic deck. Whether you’re adding a quiet retreat or an expansive entertainment area, the material you choose sets the foundation for your entire project.
Let’s break down the differences between wood, composite decking, and PVC decking—and how our deck design team at Creative Concepts & Design can help you make the most of every square foot (and every dollar) through value engineering.
Wood Decking
Classic Charm with Natural Appeal
Pros:
- Natural beauty and warmth that can’t be replicated
- Initial cost is typically lower than composite or PVC
- Can be custom-stained or painted in any color
- Easy to work with for custom shapes or unique designs
Cons:
- Requires regular maintenance—cleaning, staining, sealing
- Susceptible to splintering, rotting, and insect damage
- Shorter lifespan compared to composite or PVC decking
Cost & Longevity:
Wood is often the most budget-friendly option up front, making it an attractive choice for many homeowners. However, maintenance costs can add up over time. With regular care, a wood deck can last 10-15 years.
Composite Decking
Low-Maintenance & Long-Lasting
Composite decking has become a top choice for Kansas City homeowners who want the look of wood without the hassle. Made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastics, composite boards offer the best of both worlds.
Pros:
- Minimal maintenance—no sanding, staining, or sealing
- Resistant to fading, mold, and splinters
- Available in a wide range of colors and textures
- Long lifespan
Cons:
- Higher initial cost than wood
- Can retain heat in full sun
- Heavier material, may require stronger substructure
Cost & Longevity:
While more expensive up front, composite decking pays off in the long run with less maintenance and a longer life. A high-quality composite deck can last 25–30 years or more with minimal upkeep.
At Creative Concepts & Design, we work with the best composite decking brands on the market and use our supplier relationships to get the best value for our customers. As one of the top deck contractors in Kansas City, we know which materials perform best in our climate and which ones fit your budget.
PVC Decking
Maximum Durability and Moisture Resistance
PVC decking is made from 100% synthetic plastic with no organic content, which makes it ultra-resistant to moisture, rot, and insects. It’s often the material of choice for homeowners who want a premium, low-maintenance deck that can handle harsh conditions.
Pros:
- Waterproof and perfect for pool decks or humid environments
- Resists mold, mildew, and insects
- Longest lifespan of any decking material
- Lightweight and easy to install
Cons:
- Highest upfront cost
- Less natural appearance than wood or composite decking
- Can be slippery when wet
Cost & Longevity:
PVC decking is a premium product with a premium price tag, but it can last 30–50 years with virtually no maintenance. For homeowners who prioritize durability and long-term value, PVC is hard to beat.
Don’t Just Build a Deck, Design a Backyard Destination
Choosing the right decking material is just the beginning. The real secret to a stunning outdoor space lies in the design—and that’s where Creative Concepts & Design stands apart from other deck contractors in Kansas City.
Our deck design team doesn’t just build decks. We design complete outdoor living environments that reflect your style and meet your needs. Want a shaded space for relaxing? We’ll add a custom pergola. Need more room for entertaining? Let’s talk about incorporating a patio or outdoor kitchen. Looking for a little more seclusion? We can add privacy walls to create a cozy backyard retreat.
The Secret Is in the Design
Our name says it all: Creative Concepts & Design. Before we ever pick up a hammer, we start with a free deck design consultation to learn about your vision and your budget. We present multiple options and ideas, many of which you may not have even realized were possible within your price range.
Why? Because we don’t believe you should have to settle for a basic box-style deck. We specialize in maximizing space, improving functionality, ensuring privacy, and enhancing aesthetics. The secret is in the details—and in our innovative approach to design and materials.
Value Engineering
More Design – Less Budget
One of the things that truly sets us apart from other deck builders in Kansas City is our approach to value engineering. This is a process we’ve perfected over the years to deliver more value without inflating your costs.
Our deep understanding of decking products, suppliers, and manufacturers allows us to recommend the best decking materials at the best prices. We’ve built long-standing relationships with suppliers and know where to find deals, which products offer the best performance, and how to combine elements to create a high-end look without the high-end price tag.
We use this experience to enhance your deck design… without increasing your budget. Whether that means choosing a more affordable composite decking product with similar features or designing a space that works with your landscape instead of against it, value engineering is what allows us to build designer decks that don’t break the bank.
No Pressure. No Hard Sell. Just Options.
Worried that adding a pergola or patio will blow your budget? Don’t be. At Creative Concepts & Design, we don’t believe in the hard sell. Our goal is not to increase your costs—it’s to increase your value. We’ll show you options you might not have considered and help you weigh the pros and cons so you can make the best decision for your home and your wallet.
Many homeowners are surprised to find that features like pergolas, privacy walls, or composite decking upgrades are more affordable than they expected. Thanks to our value-engineered approach, we can often incorporate these elements into your deck plan without significantly increasing the price.
And if budget is a concern, we offer convenient deck financing options to help make your dream backyard a reality—on a timeline and budget that works for you.
So…Which Decking Material Is Best?
Wood, composite, or PVC decking? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each decking material has its own set of advantages and trade-offs. The best choice depends on your priorities—whether it’s cost, appearance, durability, maintenance, or longevity.
Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:
| Feature | Wood | Composite | PVC |
| Initial Cost | Lowest | Moderate to High | Highest |
| Maintenance | High (yearly) | Low | Very Low |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years | 25–30 years | 30–50 years |
| Appearance | Natural look | Wood-like, many styles | Clean, uniform finish |
| Durability | Moderate | High | Highest |
| Moisture Resistance | Low | Good | Excellent |
Still unsure? Don’t worry. That’s exactly why we offer free deck design consultations. Our experienced deck designers will walk you through all your options and help you choose the perfect combination of materials, features, and layout for your backyard.
Work with the Local Deck Builders Kansas City Trusts
If you’re looking for a local deck builder who can turn your backyard into a showpiece without blowing your budget, Creative Concepts & Design is here to help. From traditional wood decks to modern composite decking or ultra-durable PVC decking, we’ll help you make the best choice for your home.
We don’t just build decks in Kansas City, we create custom outdoor spaces designed to bring families together, add value to your home, and make the most of your yard. With our value engineering, thoughtful design, and customer-first approach, you’ll get more than you ever expected, without paying more than you should.
Ready to Get Started?
No matter what decking material you choose, if you want a designer deck without the high-end price tag, call us at (816) 301-0275 or contact us online to schedule a deck design consultation and get a free quote. With our value engineering, we can create designer decks and stay on budget.
No matter what decking material you choose, if you want a designer deck without the high-end price tag, call us at (816) 301-0275 or contact us online to schedule a deck design consultation and get a free quote. With our value engineering, we can create designer decks and stay on budget!
