The Pros and Cons of Wood Decking vs Composite Decking

When you first consider decking, your mind might immediately jump to the idea of wood decking, which is what many people think of when they think about decks in general. However, it’s important to consider all of the options before choosing wood decking, as composite decks have some advantages over wood decks that you may want to consider. This article will discuss the pros and cons of each type of deck so that you can determine what’s best for your situation and lifestyle.
Initial Cost
Wood decking is typically lower cost to purchase than composites, especially in the initial purchase. However, composite usually ends up paying for itself within 2-3 years when including the cost of annual maintenance. Despite this, a clean composite deck can be more attractive than a weathered wood deck.
The Cost of Maintaining Your Deck
It is important to consider the maintenance costs when deciding between composite decking and wood decking. komposittrall problem requires little to no maintenance, so you can enjoy your composite deck for many years without worry. However, periodic cleaning with a solution designed to remove dirt, algae, mold, mildew or other organic matter is necessary for composites. This is because composites are not waterproof like wood decks.
Durability
Wood decking will require annual maintenance to keep it looking its best. Composite, on the other hand, has a longer life span and requires less maintenance, making it a lower-cost option in the long run. Composite decks are even easier to clean than wood decks because they do not absorb water or dirt. This means that composite does not need to be refinished every year like wood needs to be.
Unexpected Repairs
Although composite decking is typically more expensive than wood, it does last a lot longer. If you are planning to be in your home for many years and want a low-maintenance deck, composite might be the best choice. Plus, it is so easy to clean! With wood, moss grows easily and can cause damage under the boards. It also needs to be sanded down or pressure washed at least annually.
Cleanup
A clean composite decking is one of the many benefits of composite. It’s low maintenance, resistant to mold and rot, doesn’t dent easily, and isn’t prone to scratching or staining like its wood counterparts are. Plus it costs less! If you’re looking for composite inspiration to design your deck, check out our blog post on the best composite decks we found in 2017.
Looks
When it’s time to clean your komposittrall jula, start by sweeping away any debris. You can use a stiff brush to scrub the dirt that remains after the sweeping. For stubborn stains, you can try using a pressure washer or muriatic acid diluted with water, then rinse it all off with fresh water. The deck should be dry before you seal it for long-term protection.
Environmental Impact
Composite decking is a great choice for green homeowners. Composite deck boards have virtually no off-gassing, which makes them safe for homes with very young children or those who are sensitive to chemical odors. On the other hand, composite decks are more expensive at first than wood decks but usually end up paying for themselves within 2-3 years when including the cost of annual maintenance.
Read more: 7 Benefits of Installing a Wood Fence Around Your Yard