Wood Vs Composite Decking

Should You Get Wood Or Composite Decking?

Composite decking - technically called ‘capped composite decking’ - is a precise blend of wood and plastic polymers. This polymer core is then wrapped in vinyl sheathing to provide protection and long-term durability. Composite decking may require a little sweat equity every few months, but it’s easy to clean and care for.

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.

• Composite decks are made by mixing wooden materials with recycled plastic.
• And think of the ease of ownership that this relatively maintenance free product provides.
• The plastic acts as protection from insects and other types of threats.
• The total cost of ownership considers how much the deck will cost you per year, over its lifespan.
• When real, long-term value is considered, composite decking materials are clearly a less expensive option.

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.

The cost of installing a new patio depends on the material used to construct the patio and whether any leveling or groundwork is needed before installation. A patio measuring 16 feet by 20 feet will vary in cost from $2,500 to $9,500 depending on the materials used and the labor needed.

Tigerwood tiles are a beautiful option and widely available. If you are starting with a concrete slab or patio, wood tiles are a viable option to update that existing pad with a new and fresh design. Available in Hardwood and basic wood styles, these tiles are specifically designed to work with an existing slab. Durable, rot and mold resistant, as well as pest-resistant wood tiles create an appealing finished design that differs from standard plank installation. Set in a contrasting pattern, this type of deck offers a unique design without a complete deck install. Just like your inexpensive kitchen vinyl tiles or planks, there are vinyl deck materials available for outdoor use. Econodek offers a membrane that can cover simple plywood decks to offer a waterproof finish, and complete DIY kit for a 12′ x 12′ deck will run you around $1500.

What Is The Most Durable Decking Material?

Therefore, it’s probably going to be cheaper and safer for you to look around at what’s on the market rather than diving straight into pre-treatment. For composite-material decks, no refinishing is required, but the materials can become hosts for mold if they are not cleaned at least every three or four years. If you want the natural route, go with a weather-resistant wood such as cedar or redwood. These types of decks have a beautiful look-and-feel and resist warping, cracking or other weather damage. Redwood is usually more expensive than cedar and in general, these types of decks come in at about three times the price of treated lumber. A deck can last anywhere from 10 to 30 years if made from untreated wood and can last as long as 50 years for treated wood or composite materials.

Whats In Composite Decking?

I don’t want to re-paint until I know what’s causing it otherwise it’s just covering up the problem. Most composite decks have special textures which make them slip resistant when wet. Wood decks on the other hand lack this feature and can get quite slippery especially if there’s a thin layer of mold growing on them.

Now, Lets Talk About Composite Decking:

The cost factor and maintenance efforts put into both types of decking. Let me know how you liked working with it and make sure to check out the TimberTech website to see all their products. The particles in the composite wood are tightly combined and it won’t warp, so termites are not able to enter into the composite wood deck boards.

Composite Fencing

There are many more benefits to using composite materials for your deck. It provides customization when it comes to the color, style, and texture of the decking materials. Once you have an answer to all of these questions, you’ll know what to choose. Of course, make sure to do your research and look for reliable suppliers.