Burnaby homeowners deciding between composite and wood decking are asking the right question early. The material you choose now determines how much time and money you spend on it over the next 20 years — especially given Burnaby’s rainfall and the hillside lots common in areas like Burnaby Mountain and Capitol Hill.

Burnaby’s Climate and Terrain

Burnaby gets significant rainfall — over 1,200mm annually in hillside areas. For wood decking, that means regular moisture cycling that causes warping, cracking, and the conditions that lead to rot. A cedar deck in Burnaby that isn’t sealed annually will look weathered in 3–4 years and structurally compromised in 10.

One thing we see often in Burnaby: hillside lots where decks are elevated 6–8 feet off the ground. At that height, the structural framing matters as much as the decking material — and composite boards on a well-built frame will outlast cedar in that exposure by years. The underside of elevated decks sees constant moisture, and wood in that environment requires more diligent attention than it typically gets.

Wood Decking Options in Burnaby

Cedar deck installation is the most common wood choice in Burnaby. Cedar’s natural oils provide good resistance to rot and insects — it’s significantly more durable than pressure-treated pine in BC’s climate. Wood decks remain popular for their natural look and lower upfront cost.

Upfront cost: $25–$60 per square foot installed.

Annual maintenance: Cleaning and staining/sealing every 1–2 years. In Burnaby’s climate, annual is the right frequency.

Lifespan with proper maintenance: 15–25 years.

Composite Decking in Burnaby

Composite deck installation is increasingly popular in Burnaby — especially in the hillside neighbourhoods where elevated decks are most exposed to moisture. The case for composite is straightforward: you pay more upfront and nothing (or near-nothing) thereafter.

Upfront cost: $40–$80 per square foot installed.

Annual maintenance: Periodic cleaning with soap and water. No staining, sealing, or repainting.

Lifespan: 25–50+ years. Leading products carry 25–30 year manufacturer warranties against fade and stain.

Which Is Right for Your Burnaby Home?

• Choose cedar/wood if: You prefer the natural look and are genuinely committed to annual maintenance — every year, without skipping seasons.
• Choose composite if: You want a deck that performs in Burnaby’s climate without ongoing maintenance, especially if you have an elevated lot where moisture exposure is higher.

VS Deck & Rail builds composite and cedar decks throughout Burnaby — Metrotown, Lougheed, Edmonds, Capitol Hill, Burnaby Mountain, and all hillside areas. We’ll give you honest pricing on both options at your free estimate.

Get a Free On-Site Estimate From VS Deck & Rail

VS Deck & Rail serves Delta (Tsawwassen & Ladner), Surrey, Langley, Richmond, Burnaby, Vancouver, and North Vancouver. We’re certified TimberTech composite installers and authorized Duradek waterproofing applicators — HAVAN member, BBB accredited, WorkSafe BC compliant.

Call us at (844) 757-3325 or visit vsdeck.ca to book your free on-site estimate.