Composite Deck Vs. Wood

When building a new deck, you can either use traditional wood decking or purchase one of the newer composite materials. Composite decks are more expensive, but require far less maintenance and can resist termites and water damage that would destroy a wood deck. Some simple cleaning is all that is necessary to keep a composite deck looking like new for years to come.

Materials

Composite decks are made from recycled plastic or vinyl fibers. This is mixed with fibers of recycled wood waste to give the composite material a natural look without making it more vulnerable to damage. Wood decks should be built with pressure-treated wood so there is at least one layer of protection from the elements.

Identification

In the past, there was no comparison between the look of a natural wood deck and one made from composite material. Composite decking can now be purchased in a variety of simulated wood grains. Solid colors can also be used to match the decor of the home or provide a splash of color to liven up a backyard.

Lifespan

Composite material has become a popular choice for decks because it lasts much longer than regular wood decking. Moisture can cause wood to rot and fall apart if the deck is not treated with a waterproofing sealer every one to three years. If a composite deck does become damaged, it is usually just a cosmetic issue, not a structural one. Stains and fading are common with colored composite decks because of their continual exposure to the sun.

Environmental Concerns

It is often claimed that composite decks are better for the environment because no new trees are cut down in the manufacturing process. Instead, old plastic and wood waste is recycled and compressed into pieces. However, there is quite a bit of controversy over whether composite decking is really better than wood in the long run. Once the recycled wood and plastic fibers are combined, the composite material can no longer be recycled. In contrast, the material in a wood deck can be recycled and used several times over.

Considerations

When deciding which type of deck material to use, think about how long you will be living in the home. Unless you are keeping the house for five years or more, the added cost of composite decking may not be worth it. For long-term residences, the average cost per year of a composite deck will be far less than that of a wood deck.

References

• Deck Materials Guide