Deciding between composite and wood decking is challenging, as both materials offer unique benefits and drawbacks.
Are you building a deck and wondering which material to choose? Deciding between composite and wood decking is challenging, as both materials offer unique benefits and drawbacks. Wood has been the standard until the recent boom in the popularity of composite materials. Now, both are competitive options in residential and commercial settings. So, which option is best for your home? Our guide will help you decide whether wood or composite materials will make a better deck based on the benefits, costs, appearance, and quality.
The Basics of Composite and Wood Decking
While both materials serve the same purpose, they are made differently and have varying properties. Composite is made from recycled wood, bamboo, and plastic, ground and densely compacted into board shapes. The wood is often sawdust or chips from lumber mills, and the plastics are from recycling centers, making composite decking up to 95% recycled material. After machinery compresses it into planks, the material is sealed or capped with a polymer coating to protect the boards from warping, fading, splintering, rotting, and insects.
Wood decking comes in many different varieties in terms of quality and cost. The most common and least expensive option is pressure-treated pine, manufactured with chemicals to increase the wood’s lifespan. Pine is followed by redwood and cedar, and the most costly but the highest quality choice is the tropical hardwood ipe. Wood has a natural, traditional feel, and proper maintenance can last a while. Some varieties perform better than others in terms of weather and rot resistance and are better suited to specific climates, so it’s essential to research before deciding.
Pros and Cons of Wood Decks
Natural wood is a timeless choice for deck construction. Woodgrain adds aesthetic appeal to your home, and you can stain or paint it to match your home’s exterior. When properly cared for, natural wood decking lasts for years or even decades, though you may have to replace certain areas periodically due to weather damage or other issues.
Conversely, maintenance requirements are the biggest disadvantages of natural wood decks. Even if you choose pretreated lumber suited for outdoor use, you may need to apply protective coats or stains, which could require sanding and removing previous finishes. And if you choose to paint your wooden deck, you must reapply paint every few years. In areas with harsh weather conditions, where ice, sleet, or hail are frequent, the paint may need to be touched up more frequently.
Pros and Cons of Composite Decks
Composite decking has a beautiful wood look and is less maintenance than natural wood. It also comes in various tones to match your home’s style. Unlike natural wood, composite materials do not require staining, painting, or replacement. Where wood may rot in places without proper care, composite decking products won’t. It’s also not susceptible to damage from wood bees or termites.Â
Aside from needing less maintenance, another benefit of composite decking is how it is constructed. Instead of being built with screws and nails, composite decks utilize hidden fasteners, so the surface of the deck is free of extra joints, holes, or rough spots.
The downside to using composite decking material is choosing from their color selections. You have to stick with whatever color you choose for your composite deck. On the other hand, natural wood deck boards can be painted and stained to your specific color choice, giving you endless possibilities. Also, the initial installation cost is higher for composite decks than wood decks.
Interested in Improving Your Outdoor Living Space? Consider Landscape and Hardscaping Design Services from Carroll Landscaping
Carroll Landscaping has over 30 years of experience with landscape construction, porch construction, deck building, and hardscape installation. Our award-winning landscape designers are passionate about providing customers with top-notch service and landscape design. Our landscape designers have a creative design outlook and work as a team with our installation crews to make your vision a reality. We are committed to providing every customer with the highest quality workmanship, professional and knowledgeable service, and creativity in design in order to surpass our clients’ expectations in every aspect of the project.
We serve residents throughout the beautiful state of Maryland including Baltimore, Columbia, Ellicott City, Eldersburg, Clarksville, Sykesville, Manchester, Westminster, and Woodstock. For more information and to schedule a consultation with one of our expert designers, contact us online or give us a call at 410-922-2416