Wood Vs Composite Deck

The main reason people choose composite or manmade deck materials is for the low maintenance required. For most homeowners, they need to consider the cost of replacing outdoor decks. Generally speaking, the average price of a wood decking suitable for outdoor use is US$15-25 per square foot, while that of wood plastic composite decking is USD$30-45 per square foot.

• The primary drawback to composite decking is arguably the higher price tag.
• In view of the purchase cost of decks, wood flooring is usually cheaper than composite decking.
• Most decks require a full on retreatment consisting of sanding, cleaning, staining or painting and sealing every two to five years.
• At $30-$45 per square foot for installation, the costs can rack up fast when compared to $15-$25 for natural wood.

Wood Decks Vs Composite Decks

You may see some paint brands that say they work with composite wood. However, it’s a safer bet to contact the installer or the manufacturer for your composite to check. Over the life of a deck, the costs between real wood and composite wood tend to even out. This is due to the larger ongoing maintenance cost that real wood requires. However, if you’re trying to stick to a budget for the initial installation, composite wood may be outside your grasp. Real wood has a less expensive initial cost than composite wood because the material itself is cheaper.

Now, Lets Talk About Composite Decking:

Further, advancements in this type of decking have made its look-and-feel downright attractive, by many accounts. Aluminium composite decking panels which contain wooden starch and plastic . This material is well-established in practice as it looks stylish – it’s not easy to distinguish between composite and natural wood at first sight.

Wood may be a natural material that is known for staying cooler during even the warmest weather, but composite decking is truly a contractor’s and homeowner’s dream. It’s easy to install, low maintenance, and can last for years. Composite decking is also eco-friendly, with its makeup often made from recycled wood and plastic.

Decks Vs Patios: Which Option Is Cheaper?

For additional insights on wood vs. composite decking, and to see how MoistureShield stacks up against other types of decking materials, check out ourDeck Material Comparison Chart. A key wood decking problem is that boards readily absorb water. Without the regular application of stains, sealers or paint, wood decking is susceptible to warping, splintering, cracking and rotting. Additionally, most composite decks have built-in UV resistance, so they won’t fade or lighten as much as natural wood would over time.

However within three months of installation a plastic piece broke. Trex will replace the $5 part but will do nothing about the $100 it will cost to remove the railing, post sleeve, and replace the broken part. I'm disappointed that they don't stand behind their materials. Although the installation price for a composite is definitely going to be more than wood, the actual cost over time is a good deal closer. It’s a viable option that many homeowners opt for these days for good reason.

Whats Better: Real Wood Or Composite Wood?

Natural wood decks are the most demanding, requiring annual refinishing, which sometimes means sanding, removal of last year's finish, and application of a new finish. If you love the look of natural wood and you're up for the upkeep, it's definitely worth it. To cut through the numerous choices, it is helpful to figure out which wood decking you like best then compare that to your favorite composite.

The maintenance needed to maintain a traditional timber decking varies on the type of wood it is made from. The lifetime cost of composite decking is undoubtedly lower. Though composite decking is the more expensive choice initially, over time, it can pay for itself and save you a world of maintenance. But if you don't like the look of composite, wood may be a better choice despite the maintenance involved. Think about what works best for your taste and budget, and hopefully you'll land on the right decision.

How Are Composite & Wood Decking Different?

This will protect the color and longevity of the wood by protecting it from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Composite decking contains a blend of real wood and plastic polymers, but this material still looks exactly like real wood . This type of decking material is an environmentally friendly option, and it doesn’t come with any of the downsides wood has. Wood is the most traditional material used for porches and decks, and some studies conclude it’s still the most popular option today.

They are manufactured using ultrashield technology which protects the core material with a multi-chromatic poly shell. While composite decking is eco-friendly, it’s still not a natural material like wood. However, it’s easy to install and clean, durable, low maintenance, and lasts a long time—and that can’t really be said for wood. Unfortunately, wood decking is just not meant to last forever. And it’s sure to have natural imperfections, like splinters and knots, which may not appeal to homeowners.