Decks

Composite deck boards are a blend of natural wood fibers, recycled plastics, and binding agents. This combination results in a sturdy, low-maintenance decking material that emulates the appearance of real wood. The wood fibers provide a natural aesthetic, while the plastics offer durability and resistance to rot, insects, and fading.

The Benefits of Composite Deck Boards:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Composite deck boards offer a diverse range of colors, textures, and finishes, allowing you to achieve the desired look for your outdoor space. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of cedar or the contemporary feel of gray, composite decking provides numerous options to match your style.
2. Low Maintenance: Unlike real wood decking, composite boards require minimal upkeep. They do not require regular staining, painting, or sealing, making them an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a hassle-free outdoor space.
3. Durability: Composite decking is highly resistant to rot, moisture, and insects. It does not splinter, crack, or warp like natural wood, ensuring your deck remains safe and structurally sound for years to come.
4. Temperature Under Foot:  Heat absorption is a factor to consider when choosing composite material.  Composite has a tendency to absorb heat and cause hot surfaces temperatures especially when exposed to direct sunlight. Choosing lighters colors helps with this if you like to walk barefoot on your deck. Some brands have better designed their boards to resist heat as much as possible.
5. Cost: Composite decking generally falls within a mid to high price point, offering a well performing, low maintenance and long lasting product that will save money over time.  You can expect composite decking to be more expensive than wood. 

If economy and longevity is your goal, go with pressure-treated wood. It’s stainable, hard enough to resist abuse,  But beware, not all treated woods are created equal. The standard treated decking at my local lumberyard costs less than cedar. But inexpensive treated wood is often full of moisture and will shrink unevenly and twist when it dries. One homeowner told me, “Yeah, my treated deck may last forever—but it’s going to look BAD forever, too.”

Benefits of Wood Deck Boards:

1. Durability:  Pressure-treated lumber is treated to resist rot and insect damage, increasing its lifespan. Certain hardwoods like cedar and redwood offer even greater natural resistance.  Wood is still susceptible to warping, cracking, and splintering if not properly maintained. Harsh weather conditions can accelerate these issues.
2. Maintenance:  Wood decks require regular staining or sealing to maintain their appearance and protect against the elements.  Regular maintenance is crucial to extend the lifespan of a wood deck. Neglecting this can lead to costly repairs or replacements down the line.
3. Longevity:  With proper care, a pressure-treated wood deck can last 15-20 years, while higher-quality hardwoods can last even longer (25-30 years).  Compared to composite decks, which can last 30-50 years with minimal maintenance, wood decks require more upkeep to achieve similar longevity.
4. Cost:  Pressure Treated Pine can be the most cost effective option compared to composite or PVC. Other species such as Cedar or Ipe can be much more expensive as they are much harder woods and can require special installation methods.