I get what you’re saying about mixing salvaged with new—sometimes it does look a bit patchwork, especially if the old stuff’s got that “lived-in” patina. But I’ve actually seen it work when folks commit to the eclectic vibe. Guess it depends on the house and how bold you want to go.
I still notice that plasticky feel after a couple seasons. Maybe it’s just me, but I’d rather budget for real wood and plan for more frequent upkeep.
Same here. There’s just something about real wood underfoot, even if it means sanding and sealing every couple years. My neighbor tried composite and ended up covering it with outdoor rugs anyway. Sometimes the old ways are worth the hassle.
Sometimes the old ways are worth the hassle.
I hear you, but I’ve got to play devil’s advocate—real wood on a beach house deck is a maintenance marathon. Salt air and humidity just eat it alive, even with regular sealing. Composite isn’t perfect, but it’s come a long way in the last few years. Still, if you’re set on wood, budget extra for sanding, sealing, and maybe replacing boards every few years. It adds up faster than most folks expect. Mixing salvaged and new can work if you’re intentional about transitions—otherwise it can look pretty hodgepodge.
budget extra for sanding, sealing, and maybe replacing boards every few years
That’s spot on. I’ve had to replace cedar porch boards twice in a decade—salt air just chews them up, even with marine-grade finishes. If you’re set on wood, look into ipe or mahogany, but even those need regular oiling. Composite can look a bit “off” on historic homes, but it’s way less hassle long-term. Mixing salvaged and new is tricky—matching patina is almost impossible unless you’re really patient.
Mixing salvaged and new wood really is a headache—matching the color and wear takes a lot of trial and error. I’ve tried it a couple times and usually end up frustrated with the results, even after experimenting with different stains and finishes. Ipe’s durability is impressive, but it’s not cheap, and installing it can be rough on tools. Mahogany’s a bit softer, but still holds up better than cedar in salty air.
Honestly, composites have come a long way in terms of appearance, but I get the hesitation if you’re trying to keep that historic vibe. Sometimes, though, the lower maintenance wins out, especially if you’re planning to rent out or sell in a few years. Budget-wise, I’d say plan for at least 20% extra just for ongoing deck or porch upkeep—those little repairs add up faster than you’d think. If you do go with wood, maybe factor in a re-seal every 2-3 years as a line item. It’s not just about the initial install cost... it’s the long game that gets you.
Totally agree about the ongoing costs—people always underestimate that part. I’ve had decks where the “little” repairs ended up costing more than I expected, especially after a rough winter. Composites really do save time and money long-term, even if they don’t have that classic look. If you’re planning to rent out, tenants rarely care about original wood anyway. I’d say don’t skimp on the budget for hardware and fasteners, either—cheap stuff rusts out fast near the ocean.
