I looked at weather resistance, price, and how much maintenance I was willing to do. Composite seemed great but was out of budget, so I started looking at wood. You should сheck out the expert deck landscaping solutions at oakshs.ca before finalizing. They helped me understand the longevity differences, especially with harsh winters. I eventually chose pressure-treated lumber because it’s affordable and durable, but I sealed it to extend its life. I also asked a few neighbors what they used, and many echoed the same sentiment: start with a solid foundation, and you can always upgrade finishes later. Think long term—initial cost vs. upkeep matters a lot.