Comparing Composite Vs Wood Decking

Should You Get Wood Or Composite Decking?

Composite decking, on the other hand, is designed to repel liquids, mold, and other materials that leave stains. Also, if something spills on the deck, it can usually be wiped up quickly. You should also be prepared to replace your deck sooner when using wood decking, and this fact alone often makes the initial savings not worth it in the long term. Before choosing to go with lumber just because the initial cost is cheaper, be prepared to put in the additional maintenance and work on your deck. When comparing decking, pricing is one of the few areas where wood decking has an advantage.

Is Composite Decking Cheaper Than Wood Decking?

What's The Right Choice For Your Deck?

Composite decking does not typically get hotter than pressure treated wood. On a hot summer day with the sun beating down, nearly any surface will get hot however composite decking is more UV resistant and helps resist fading from the sun’s rays. Unlike traditional lumber decking, using composite decking around pools can provide a smooth, clean surface for many years with little to no maintenance. You may be wondering whether composite decking is right for your project and if it’s worth the added cost. Trex decking does not typically get hotter than pressure-treated wood, although on a hot day with a blazing sun, nearly any surface will get uncomfortably hot. Lighter colored boards tend to be slightly cooler than darker composite boards.

• Wood decks have much higher maintenance requirements and don’t last as long as composite decking materials.
• While composite decking tries to mimic the look of real wood, it falls way short of replicating hardwood perfectly.
• Everyone wants beautiful, natural-looking decking and nothing accomplishes that more than real hardwood decking.
• The largest hurdle is the upfront cost, because composite materials cost more than real wood.
• There’s no such thing as a perfect decking material, and that includes composite decking.

With composite, you may get more color choices, though keep in mind that wood can always be painted if you have your heart set on a specific shade. For example, if you have gray siding, you can look for gray composite decking or paint your wood gray. 300 sq foot deck with no railings, ground level would only need 2 gallons of $50 a gallon deck stain or $100 per every 2 years. $700 is ludicrous and appears trumped up to sell more composite decking.

If you live in an area with humid and rainy weather, having a wooden deck isn’t the best idea. Of course, you can still find quality wooden boards that can withstand the harsh conditions, but going composite is simply more rewarding. So, now when we have a general idea about what wood and composite decking is, we can start the comparison. Just as the name suggests, wood decking is all about natural wood. You can choose between many different wood types, and it’s generally a great decking solution. Of course, the wood is treated with chemicals during the manufacturing process so it can withstand and resist all kinds of external damages. Finally, composite wood tends to have fewer options on the cosmetic side.

Tigerwood tiles are a beautiful option and widely available. If you are starting with a concrete slab or patio, wood tiles are a viable option to update that existing pad with a new and fresh design. Available in Hardwood and basic wood styles, these tiles are specifically designed to work with an existing slab. Durable, rot and mold resistant, as well as pest-resistant wood tiles create an appealing finished design that differs from standard plank installation. Set in a contrasting pattern, this type of deck offers a unique design without a complete deck install. Just like your inexpensive kitchen vinyl tiles or planks, there are vinyl deck materials available for outdoor use. Econodek offers a membrane that can cover simple plywood decks to offer a waterproof finish, and complete DIY kit for a 12′ x 12′ deck will run you around $1500.

The market for alternative decking materials has exploded over the past few years, and there are a multitude of different products available, at a wide range of price points. If you’d like to enjoy next summer from your brand new deck, now is the time to start planning and get it built.

On average, a pressure-treated wood deck will cost between $15 to $25 per square foot including installation. A composite deck will cost $30 to $45 per square foot installed.

Now, Lets Talk About Composite Decking:

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Consider materials my blog and design before starting a deck project

So the decision process usually involves only the materials that will make up the decking surface and railings. UV resistance - Composite decks will not fade or lighten over time like natural wood. Composite is a manmade decking product that has gained popularity over the last decade. It is manufactured using a combination of wood fiber and plastic. The planks are designed to look like wood, although most people can tell the difference between natural wood and composite. Even with a composite deck, the load-bearing supports are made of natural wood because it is sturdier.

Composite Fencing

There are many more benefits to using composite materials for your deck. It provides customization when it comes to the color, style, and texture of the decking materials. Once you have an answer to all of these questions, you’ll know what to choose. Of course, make sure to do your research and look for reliable suppliers.