When designing your ideal deck, one of the most critical decisions you’ll make is the kind of decking material to choose. Wood-plastic composites (composite deck) and wooden decking are two of the most frequently used materials. Whether you want to hire a contractor or do everything yourself, this article outlines the considerations to consider when deciding between wood and composite decking.
The first thing to keep in mind when selecting a deck material is that the majority of decks utilize treated timber for the framing, which is the structural portion of the deck that you seldom see unless you’re beneath it.
Numerous wood types are available for decking and railing applications. Cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine timber are also popular choices. Tropical hardwood decking choices for people interested in exotic wood style include tiger wood, ipe, and mahogany.
The advantages and disadvantages of wood decking are addressed further in this article.
Decking Made of Composite Wood
Wood-plastic composite decking (affectionately referred to as “composite wood decking”) was invented in the late 1980s and is composed of wood fibers enclosed in plastic. Composite decking is widely accessible at major home improvement shops and wholesale places in Australia.
As more builders and homeowners become aware of the issues associated with wood decking, many are opting for high-performance composite decking.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Wood vs. Composite Decking
Many homeowners choose wood decking due to its familiarity, accessibility, and affordability. Simultaneously, wood decking issues such as splinters, decay, and expensive upkeep create a slew of difficulties. Although composite wood decking is more maintenance-free than wood, some homeowners are concerned that composites will not look as good as wood.
However, technological advancements have resulted in composites that replicate the rich, natural appearance of wood without the difficulties associated with maintaining a wood deck.
When comparing wood vs. composite decking, the following points should be considered:
Looks
While early generations of composite decking seemed fake and plastic-like, some contemporary composites have a varied appearance and randomized embossed grain pattern, ensuring that no two boards are identical. As a result, composites decking line more closely to the look of wooden deck planks.
Moisture
A significant issue with wood decking is that the planks easily absorb water. Without routine staining, sealing, and painting, wood decking is prone to splintering, cracking, warping, and rotting. In comparison, composite deckings are moisture resistant to the core, allowing them to be placed in areas with high moisture levels without deteriorating.
Maintenance
To prolong the life of a wood deck, homeowners must paint, stain, or seal the decking on a regular basis to protect it from moisture. Composites, on the other hand, need just brushing or cleaning to maintain their appearance.
Insect Devastation
In contrast to the majority of wood decking, composite is resistant to termites and other wood-destroying insects.
Splinters
While all-wood decking would ultimately splinter, composite decking is composed of tiny wood fibers that are coated in plastic, preventing them from splintering. This is particularly essential while strolling barefoot on the deck, as well as for youngsters and dogs with sensitive feet.
Price
Among the many advantages and disadvantages of wood decking, cost is a clear advantage. Generally, wood decking is less expensive to buy than composite decking, particularly the first purchase. While wood is less expensive initially, composite often pays for itself within 2-3 years when yearly maintenance is included. The price difference also varies according to the wood species selected and the brand of composite decking used, as well as market circumstances in the local area.
Simple internet tools may also assist you in estimating the expenses associated with wood or composite wood decking.
Workability
Both wood and composites are simple to cut and attach using basic household equipment. One area where composites excel is their ability to be bent (through heat) to create curved deck sections.
Temperature at the Surface
Wood decking has traditionally had a summer weather advantage over composites, since composites may get uncomfortably hot in full sunlight due to their density. However, new production capabilities and technology, decrease heat absorption by up to 35% when compared to traditional capped composites in comparable colors, keeping your composite deck cooler on hot days in Australia.
When it comes to choosing the decking material for your home, there’s no perfect choice, only preferences to suit your needs and life style. To learn more about the differences between wood and composite decking, visit this composite decking tiles website.
