Comparing Composite vs Wood Decking
One of the nicest things you can do on a bright evening is to relax or have fun on your backyard deck. Therefore, installing a beautiful, comfortable deck becomes your primary goal. Aside from the deck’s dimensions and design, there are other considerations to make when building a deck project. The biggest dilemma for many is whether to use traditional lumber or composite deck boards.
When deciding between wood and composite decking, homeowners should take into account the materials’ cost, longevity, ease of care, and use. Therefore, you need to choose the right deck material for your situation.
Ultra Strong Core More Durable Composite Decking CPD-05
Proprietary double-tone art color tech brings you stunningly natural wood looking,enjoy a better outdoor life.
Table of Contents
Different Types of Decking Materials
Undoubtedly, a lot of people adore the texture and appearance of solid wood decking. Wood is a natural plant, and the growth of trees helps to protect the Earth’s ecosystem by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. In addition, sensible tree planting can enhance the aesthetics of the environment.
The phrase “synthetic deck boards” frequently conjures images of plastic decks. Although generally speaking, this is accurate, composite decking material is not. Composite decking is composed of a combination of wood fibers and recyclable plastic.
Choosing a composite decking material might be challenging because it offers several advantages. You need to study the differences between wood decking and composite decking in detail in order to make an informed decision.
Materials for Composite Decking
Wood-plastic composite, or WPC material for short, is another name for composite material. In order to create beautiful items, natural fibers from bamboo, bark, or wood pulp are typically combined with recyclable plastics. It is therefore environmentally beneficial to promote and use composite materials. Composite decking materials can also be disassembled and reused at the end of their useful life to create new composite products.
Composite decking boards come in a variety of hues because composite materials are simple to color during the production process. In addition, it can even be bolted, nailed, drilled, and fastened together like real wood. It’s vital to remember that composite decking is not as weather-resistant as other non-wood decking kinds because it contains wood fibers.
Polyvinyl Chloride Foamed
Foamed polyvinyl chloride is another increasingly common substitute for wood decking. Made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), it resembles a thick honeycomb. It won’t degrade or absorb water like most plastics do, and it won’t draw pests. But if you want, you can paint it to change its appearance.
For your outdoor deck to look even more beautiful, PVC trim boards are sometimes created with a textured design. Although PVC material is not organic, it is more environmentally friendly than petrochemical plastics. This is because salt makes up more than half of its molecular weight.
Mineral-Based Composite Materials
One of the best things about mineral-based composite (MBC) decking is how sturdy and stable it is. It is impervious to water and insects, and it will not flex or bend. To make this plastic trim board resemble wood, you can also add texture or color to it.
Planks are created by heating and mixing metals and minerals together under pressure. Despite its strength, it is not the most environmentally friendly ornamental material because it is formed of inorganic components.
Note: Some individuals believe composite decking planks are safe to use in fire pits because of their increased fire resistance. This is untrue because despite being more fire resistant, it still has some combustibility. Wood and composite decking are often not recommended in extremely hot or cold temperatures.
Is Installing a Wood Deck Less Expensive?
Contrary to popular belief, wood decking is not necessarily more affordable than composite decking. Wood has become much more expensive in the last few years than it was previously. Furthermore, the cost of raw materials affects the price of wood decking. On the other hand, the cost of composite decking is more stable. This is because it is a man-made deck trim product.
At building supply stores, the cost of pine for deck construction can run as high as $15 to $20 per square foot. The price of composite decking per square foot is between $30 and $40. But the cost of species like redwood and cedar is higher than that of pine. Well-known imported species, like IPE, are far more expensive than composite decking.
The decking product’s lifespan is yet another crucial aspect to take into account. When figuring out the overall cost, keep in mind that composite decking lasts longer than solid wood decking. In addition, composite decking can save a substantial amount of money on maintenance because it requires little to no upkeep.
Wood Decking Needs Consistent Care and Upkeep
Generally speaking, composite decking planks require less maintenance than wood decks. Sanding, repairs, painting, and sealing are required for wood decks every two to three years. This continuous deck upkeep might get very expensive. Conversely, most composite deck boards just need to be cleaned on a regular basis to maintain their attractive appearance.
Similar to wood, composite decking boards can get scratches, holes, and other damage with regular use. To get it fixed, speak with the composite decking manufacturer. Although composite decking can be repaired in a number of ways, it is advisable to retain the deck’s aesthetic appeal.
That being said, wood decking needs more upkeep and care than composite decking. The natural feel and appearance, however, is worth the extra work for a lot of people.
Compared to Wood Decks, Composite Decking Lasts Longer
Wood decking only lasts 10 to 20 years, while high-quality composite decking can last 25 to 30 years. A few MBC decks have a 50-year lifespan. Even with proper maintenance, wood decks do not last as long as composite wood decking. However, there are steps homeowners can take to extend the life of their wood decks.
- Don’t buy plain white pine. For your deck, purchase pressure and preservative-treated lumber. These wood prevent deck boards from rotting, molding, or developing an infestation.
- Think about cedar or redwood. Although some wood varieties are more costly, they are inherently resistant to insects and weather. Compared to pressure-treated lumber, they are more beautiful.
- Moreover, mahogany and IPE are more durable than other timbers. However, the cost of these imported trees is far more than that of other woods and composite decking.
Deck Planks in the Sun
When decking materials are exposed to direct sunshine, they all heat up. But compared to solid wood, composite decking materials typically retain heat longer. There are two drawbacks to composite decking materials: they get hot in the summer and they get slippery after rain.
Composite decking can often reach temperatures of up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit in the sun. This temperature is hot enough to burn your feet. Certain synthetic decks might be covered by this, but not all composite decking.
- Because wood-plastic composite decking is composed of natural fibers, it functions similarly to wood. Seldom does it get extremely hot or chilly.
- Although some PVC deck brands claim that their products are no worse than natural flooring. But foam PVC is probably the most prone to overheating.
- Some leading manufacturers of MBC decorative decking say their products are cooler in the sun than wood.
When wet, many varieties of composite deck boards can become extremely slick and hazardous. This can be avoided by using surfaces that include grooves and textures. Thus, while selecting composite decking, you should choose a deck surface with a high slip resistance factor if you reside in a rainy environment.
How to Pick the Appropriate Deck Material
It makes sense to believe that wood decks are better for the environment. This is because wood is a natural material that can be used for a long time. For the most part, this is true, but not always.
For instance, it’s common practice to treat wood under pressure with harmful chemicals. In the United States, cedar, redwood, and pine are generally grown. On the other side, illicit logging in South American rainforests may be the source of teak and IPE. Many mahogany trees are purchased and shipped from India or Malaysia.
Globally, sustainable production is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). It is not necessary, however, if you are buying a wood decking, be sure it is FSC certified.
Furthermore, it is false to believe that all composite materials are more harmful to the environment than wood. Composite materials are used extensively in the products of brands such as Trex, EVODEK, Fiberon, and COOWIN, which are proud of this fact. Additionally, they offer a sustainable production strategy and are dedicated to producing their goods in a way that is more environmentally friendly.
Final Thoughts
As a result, selecting the appropriate deck material for your circumstances is extremely important. Does the budget allow for this? Does it have a special pattern for the deck design? Does anyone like to handle their own outdoor deck maintenance? Select the best material for your outdoor deck after taking into account a number of aspects.
EVODEK has many years of experience in production research and development. With extensive product manufacturing expertise, EVODEK is committed to providing customers with high-quality composite decking boards. If our items satisfy your needs, please get in touch with us. We’ll give you free samples and fix your problem. Keeping customers happy is our main goal.
FAQ
What is the downside of composite decking?
Composite decking also has some drawbacks. For instance, it carries a higher initial cost, and due to its excellent insulation properties, the surface tends to heat up under direct sunlight. Additionally, its appearance lacks the natural look of wood.
Is a composite deck cheaper than a wood deck?
In terms of upfront material and construction costs, composite decking is usually more expensive than wood decking. However, its higher original price can be balanced out by the fact that it requires less upkeep and repairs over time and lasts longer.
Wood is cheaper at first, but composite decking lasts longer, is more resistant to the weather, and needs less care. This could make it a cheaper choice over the life of the deck.
Is composite decking slippery when wet?
If water, ice, algae, or dirt buildup on composite decking makes it wet, it can be slippery. However, the amount of slipperiness depends on the brand and the roughness of the surface. Most composite deck boards are less likely to slip than dyed wood, but some low-quality ones can be very slippery. To improve grip, pick boards with noticeable textures, keep them clean, and make sure they drain well so water doesn’t build up and mold grows.
Related Post
