Wood vs. Composite Decking: Which is Best for You?
By Eric Engel
Photo: © Jostein Hauge - Dreamstime
 Whether you're building around your back door or around a new swimming pool, your deck is an important home upgrade. It will add (or detract) from your home's visual appeal, and it will affect your home's appraised value. But most of all, it will become part of your home—one that you can't replace on a whim. So, you'll want to choose your deck materials carefully before making the investment. Here are some comparisons of wood and composite deck material.
What About Wear and Tear?
The common myth is that composite decks do not show wear and tear. This is not entirely true, because the material does scratch, just not as easily as wood. Although a wood deck will show wear, its benefit is that it can be restored while a composite deck may have to be totally replaced after years of use.
On the other hand, wood requires constant maintenance, can rot, and is subject to insect infestation. This is not a problem with composites. If you live in a damp area, a composite deck is definitely a better investment. A word of warning though, some composite material is subject to mildew when exposed to moisture and needs extra treatment. You will need to check with your local supplier about their composite recommendation.
Which is More Durable?
Although certain composite materials are initially |
stronger than wood, over time, the composites (especially if used for hand rails) tend to sag more than wood does. Composite deck materials are still being developed. When used for structure, they have a long way to go.
Wood will expand if it is exposed to lots of moisture, but heat and direct sunlight may cause some types of composite decking to expand. All composite materials are not created equal. If you are installing a composite deck, make sure to do your research on which composite material holds up best in your area.
What About Maintenance?
Wood decks require lots of maintenance to keep them protected from the elements. Composite decks should be cleaned several times a year, but are otherwise maintenance free. Keep in mind that this also means that composite materials can't be repaired. If something goes wrong, it's harder to fix without replacing the entire board/boards. So, you'll have to find the manufacturer and make sure they still have the material in your colors before you can repair your composite deck.
Which Costs More?
You might think wood is the clear winner when it comes to material expenses, but only if you put the deck in an environment suitable for wood. Severe weather changes will mean that you have to treat your deck often. The maintenance expenses won't necessarily add up to the total cost of a composite deck, but the time you spend treating it certainly will.
No matter which material you choose, you should first do your research. Talk to some wood suppliers and then some composite suppliers in your area. Be aware that they will both give you advice that favors their product, but by comparing notes you should be able to pick out the material most suitable for you. |
