Longevity ranks aluminum first (15–25 years structural, 20–30 year finishes), cedar second (15–20 years), vinyl third (15–25 years bounded by fading), treated lumber last (10–15 years). Maintenance per decade runs under $500 for aluminum

Aluminum wins on structural performance — extruded profiles span farther, powder coating holds 20–30 years, and maintenance stays under $500 a decade. Wood wins on strength-per-dollar and aesthetics, with cedar lasting 15–20 years