Looking to transform your backyard into the outdoor living space of your dreams? Then the biggest question you have to answer is this. When it comes to wood vs composite decking, which is better?
If you’re not sure which decking material is right for your property, we can help. In this complete guide, we compare the major pros and cons of each type of decking material so you can make an informed choice.
Before you make your decision, read through this guide.
1. Lifespan/Durability
There’s no contest: composite decks naturally last longer than wood decks, period. Given gentle wear and weather, your composite deck will easily last up to 50 years. Under the best conditions, a wood deck will probably last no longer than 30.
Composite decking isn’t susceptible to rotting, splintering, weathering, or getting eaten by insects. It’s about as immortal as decking gets.
Still, they do get scratched if you’re not careful. And some composite materials can fade or warp.
The lifespan of wood decking, on the other hand, depends on many factors. For one thing, the quality and treatment of the wood affect the lifespan. Typically, the more expensive wood options are the more durable ones.
Truly, though, there’s only one way to know for sure what kind of added durability features your decking comes with. And that is to ask a reliable decking installation company, like this service, for these details.
2. Maintenance
Wood decking also requires regular maintenance to extend its lifespan. This includes weatherproofing (staining, sealing, or painting) every few years. Sanding, repairing, and replacing boards may also be required once and a while.
In contrast, composite decking requires almost no maintenance whatsoever. It should be swept and washed once in a while to prevent mold growth, but that’s about it.
3. Cost
Determining which type of decking material is cheaper is a tricky question to answer. When you compare the price of the actual materials, composite decking is usually about twice the price of wood.
But composite decking costs $0 to maintain. Wood decks require a lot of time and money every few years for restaining/repainting.
In addition, both wood and composite decking have varying levels of quality/durability. And, most of the time, you get what you pay for. That is, if you get the more expensive decking upfront, you won’t have to maintain or replace your deck as often.
Again, you should ask your deck installation company for these details
4. Sustainability
Obviously, buying a wood deck greatly increases the demand for cutting down trees while getting a composite deck does not. Plus, composite decking is also very often made from recycled materials.
Furthermore, composite decking can also be more eco-friendly to produce. For example, one study found that producing Trex composite decking emits 36% less greenhouse gas than the production of pressure-treated lumber.
Wood Vs Composite Decking: Which Will You Choose?
Now that you’ve seen the pros and cons of each type of decking material, have you made your choice? It’s okay if you need more time—just bookmark this page for later. In any case, use this helpful guide when choosing between wood vs composite decking.
Now, what would you like to learn about next? We have the tips you need for remodeling your bathroom, decorating your home, or choosing a custom home builder. Find all these topics and more on our Home and Garden blog.
