Composite Decking Vs Wood Decking
Contents
Should You Get Wood Or Composite Decking?
Unlike real wood, you can’t simply change the color by picking from a large selection of stains. For some homeowners with a clear vision of how they want their deck to look, this could be a deal-breaker.
Is Composite Decking Cheaper Than Wood Decking?
What's The Right Choice For Your Deck?
Regionally, decks recouped more of their costs in regions where outdoor lifestyles are more popular. Wood is more likely to have smooth spots created by wear; such spots may be slippery when wet. Most brands of composite decking have textured finishes to make them slip-resistant. Water and ice accumulation from rain and snow may create slippery conditions on any deck surface.
- The main reason people choose composite or manmade deck materials is for the low maintenance required.
- The main reason people choose wood is for the initial cost savings.
- 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 cost to install a composite deck is roughly double the cost of wood when you factor in the higher materials cost plus labor.
- The question is really how much you're willing or able to spend upfront.
Even if you go with the cheapest wooden option, the costs of maintenance can make it more expensive in the long haul. When it comes to durability, in most cases, composite is the way to go.
Still not as long as composite, but an admirable amount of time, if properly treated. Let us know in the comments below along with any tips and recommendations. Another comfortable benefit is this material doesn’t require periodical grinding or painting of the surface. That in itself can be a downside, because you have no way of removing scratches.
TimberTech has engineered certain formulations of their composite decking products to minimize heat build-up, so they’re cooler under your feet. If you are building a deck that will be in direct sunlight all day you may want to choose a lighter composite finish so that it won’t absorb as much of the sun’s heat. I have been looking into upgrading to composite decking and feel like it might be the right choice for us. Our deck is made of wood and has not held up well over time. There are boards that are rotting and we will definitely have to replace it within the next year. Your composite deck may not warp, but it can sag and buckle. Most sagging is caused by improper spacing between the joists when it is installed.
The higher the wood ranks on the scale, the more resistant to scratches and dents. We’ve briefly touched on this already, but because it’s such an important part of wooden decks, it deserves another mention.
Whats In Composite Decking?
So, if you ever plan to sell your house, choosing hardwood decking will allow you to get the most for your home's resale value. All you have to do with your composite decking is power-wash it every year. This keeps it clean and in good condition, no other work required.
Now, Lets Talk About Composite Decking:
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