10 Viable Wood Decking Alternatives

But if your composite deck does fade over time due to direct sunlight exposure, you can stain or paint it to make it look new again. Many people don’t realize that staining or painting composite is possible, but it’s doable and can enhance the beauty of your deck over time, keeping it looking like new. 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.

• Wood may be a natural material that is known for staying cooler during even the warmest weather, but composite decking is truly a contractor’s and homeowner’s dream.
• It’s a viable option that many homeowners opt for these days for good reason.
• It’s easy to install, low maintenance, and can last for years.
• Although the installation price for a composite is definitely going to be more than wood, the actual cost over time is a good deal closer.

Wood Decks Vs Composite Decks

While composite decking is made to look like natural wood, some people prefer the authenticity of actual wood. However, as durable as wood decking is, it’s still far more susceptible to maintenance costs, time and effort. Most decks require a full on retreatment consisting of sanding, cleaning, staining or painting and sealing every two to five years. The primary drawback to composite decking is arguably the higher price tag. At $30-$45 per square foot for installation, the costs can rack up fast when compared to $15-$25 for natural wood.

Now, Lets Talk About Composite Decking:

Woven types of bamboo is much more resistant to this problem, but still not waterproof. In standard moist areas and hot climates bamboo will serve you well. However, it is in fact a thing, and many homeowners find this type of decking best suits their needs. It also is easy to install, which makes it a great candidate for DIY projects.

And no matter which material you choose, be sure to get your share of quotes so you're able to compare your options and snag a great deal. The cost to install a composite deck is roughly double the cost of wood when you factor in the higher materials cost plus labor. If your budget for installing a deck is limited, you may choose to stick with wood. But keep in mind that composite requires less maintenance over time so that, depending on the size of your deck, at some point, you could break even. The question is really how much you're willing or able to spend upfront. The main reason people choose wood is for the initial cost savings.

Decks Vs Patios: Which Option Is Cheaper?

Composite decking material is softer than natural wood and therefore can be “etched” more easily. On top of this, we also donate 10% of all profits to the Rainforest Trust UK to help become a carbon negative business. Finally, there’s the hidden cost of the environmental damage that wooden decks cause to our planet. Adding a deck to your home is a great way to make the most of your outdoor space. But not all decking material is created equal, and you may be torn between natural wood or composite, a material designed to mimic the look of wood.

However within three months of installation a plastic piece broke. Trex will replace the $5 part but will do nothing about the $100 it will cost to remove the railing, post sleeve, and replace the broken part. I'm disappointed that they don't stand behind their materials. Although the installation price for a composite is definitely going to be more than wood, the actual cost over time is a good deal closer. It’s a viable option that many homeowners opt for these days for good reason.

Here are the pros and cons of natural wood versus man-made composites for deck materials. Techwoodn is a leading innovator in wood plastic composite decking boards. Complete your yard with WPC decking, all to help you create a comfortable life. Not real wood - Some composite decking looks cheap and not at all like real wood (other composite looks great, though - brand matters).

Depending on your budget and the needs of your project there are lots of options available. What to Look for in Quality Waterproof Composite Decking Materials. Composite decking is a blend of synthetic and natural materials. Although non-permeable plastic was a large part of the mix, these weren't waterproof boards.

This will protect the color and longevity of the wood by protecting it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Composite decking contains a blend of real wood and plastic polymers, but this material still looks exactly like real wood . This type of decking material is an environmentally friendly option, and it doesn’t come with any of the downsides wood has. Wood is the most traditional material used for porches and decks, and some studies conclude it’s still the most popular option today.

They are manufactured using ultrashield technology which protects the core material with a multi-chromatic poly shell. While composite decking is eco-friendly, it’s still not a natural material like wood. However, it’s easy to install and clean, durable, low maintenance, and lasts a long time—and that can’t really be said for wood. Unfortunately, wood decking is just not meant to last forever. And it’s sure to have natural imperfections, like splinters and knots, which may not appeal to homeowners.