Comparing Composite Vs Wood Decking

Other potential drawbacks over time can include noticeable surface damage. Common issues with composite deck products can include severe scratches and deep gouges - difficult to repair without replacing individual deck boards. Since composite decks don’t need to be painted, stained, or treated. Keep in mind your typical wood deck will weather, fade, crack, and split as it dries over time.

If you accidentally get grease or another offending substance on a composite board, you cannot simply sand out the stain. Whereas wood planks are typically sold only in 16-foot lengths , composite decking is routinely available in board lengths up to 20 feet.

In fact, you never need to worry about sanding, staining or painting—just do a simple soap and water cleaning twice a year. Trex® is a high-performance composite material that’s specifically designed for use in the construction of outdoor decks. In today’s post, decking and roofing contractor ABM Services & Renovations shares an overview of the benefits of this exceptional decking material. Over 50 different companies manufacture composite decking, and each one has a research and development division constantly working on solving any problems with the product. However, many people don’t like the grey look, but find it difficult to constantly maintain the deck with staining.

Advantages Of Composite Wood

• Coast to coast, more and more homeowners are recognizing the benefits of composite decking over traditional wood.
• Without this step, the natural wood fibers will still begin to disintegrate, which can leave uncomfortable plastic fibers sticking out of your deck over time, creating a walking hazard.
• Some outdoor living enthusiasts are drawn to the low maintenance and high value of composite decking; for others, the enduring beauty of the color-rich boards wins them over.
• Although some manufacturers rely on virgin wood and plastics, others make extensive use of recycled materials.
• Your boards must receive treatment with a preservative to maximize their potential to fight the natural aging process.

Protected from the elements, pests, such as termites, and mold, composite decking boasts superior durability compared to those constructed completely of wood. Composite decking also doesn't splinter, scratch, fade or crack—extending its lifespan significantly longer than that of an all-wooden composition. Fortunately, Exterior Source, a premier home improvement company in the area, uses Trex® composite decking that can add value to your home. It’s been a few years since it was installed, but it still looks great even with all of the low maintenance that it’s had to have. I have to admit that I was skeptical at first, but TimberTech was very helpful at answering all of the questions that they have. I recently saw that their website had it’s own question and answering page on their site.

Environmentally Friendly Product

Costs Over 10 Years

Because of the weight of the composite materials, you must have a stronger frame in place for your deck when compared to the requirements for natural wood. Most manufacturers in this industry call for 16 inches on the center framing for straight runs. If you opt for diagonal runs, then you need 12 inches on the framing. Despite the added weight of this recycled product, it does not usually have the same strength as pressure-treated or natural wood. That means your home could struggle to support this installation and the deck itself may not be as supportive of your needs as you hoped it might be. Depending on your market costs, composite decking could be as much as five times more expensive than using pressure-treated wood for your building needs.

However, the payoff you get over time in decreased maintenance costs and increased leisure time provides compelling value. According to Popular Mechanics, basic pressure-treated lumber goes for about 80 cents per linear foot, while redwood or cedar runs up to three times that amount.

Advantages Of Composite Decks

On the other hand, decking installation is easier with composite decking and you can do it yourself. I’ve tried both types, but my heart goes with wooden decks – there’s nothing like a freshly stained wooden deck. Most are made from recycled wood scraps and plastic ­– making them pretty eco-friendly. They come in a variety of earth-tones and wood colors to match your outdoor decor.

Advantages Of Composite Decking

Therefore, In order to keep a pressure treated deck looking it’s best, you need to put in ongoing effort. Another advantage of composite decks are that they come in a variety of colors and textures. Here’s a detailed review about composite decking, including how to choose the best boards, comparing costs, as well as installing and cleaning them.

Many homeowners love that a composite decking product has a uniform color and style across every board. Long lasting –Adding a deck to your home is an investment that should last for an extended period of time. Water, snow, ice, sleet, hail and other harsh elements can break down traditional decking materials quickly, causing them to rot, warp and splinter. By contrast, composite decking materials are designed for longevity and durability, resist fading and are insect resistant. Functionality of design another big reason why people select composite decks. Many composite lines offer ready to go picket railing, which is similar in style to wood railings. Others, offer a rich looking tempered glass system as well.

There are plenty of reasons people choose real wood for their decks. Many homeowners enjoy using natural materials rather than synthetic ones. That authenticity comes with practical benefits as well, though.

Unlike most wood decking, composite decking is not prone to damage from termites and other wood-destroying insects. A key wood decking problem is that boards readily absorb water. Without the regular application of stains, sealers or paint, wood decking is susceptible to warping, splintering, cracking and rotting. As more builders and homeowners learn of wood decking problems, many are turning to high-performance composite decking. As you plan your dream deck, one of the key choices you face is what type of decking to use.

How To Fasten Composites Down

You can choose matte, smooth, or highly textured options while still working to avoid the heating issue with some of the choices that are on the market today. The original and oldest choice for decking materials, decks have been using wood for their makeup since their existence, so we know it’s a proven material that looks great. Composite decks are made of durable, long-lasting materials that are stain-resistant and will hold up well to harsh weather, as well as natural wear and tear for up to 50 years. Unlike a natural wood deck that can last years before needing repair, composite won’t splinter, rot or become susceptible to insect damage. Today, you can expect to pay anywhere between $2-4 per lineal foot for standard composite decking boards, sometimes higher depending on your source.

Composite deck boards are offered in solid, or “hollow” varieties. This adds to the lightweight nature of composite decking and how easy it is to manage on site during an installation. Of course, along with the cost of the product and the installation, you’ll also get a warranty with your composite decking. Many manufacturers offer either a limited-lifetime warranty or a 25-year warranty. Some warranties will even transfer from one homeowner to another if the house sells. However, warranties will not cover stains, scratches, or fading.

Even high-end wood like cedar and redwood still come in under the price for the lowest composite decking. They do, however, require semiannual cleaning, which consists of a soapy water mixture and a low power washer or soft bristle brush. Not only can it add value to your outdoor lifestyle, it also adds value to your home. Homeowners who add a composite deck to their home can recoup much of the cost of their investment when they go to sell their home. In fact, some homeowners can see as high as a 62.8 percent return on investment for their composite decking addition. Composite decks are made from slip-resistant and splinter-free materials.