If you’re looking to add a custom deck to your home, you’re probably debating between composite or wood decking materials. Which is the best? Which one lasts the longest? Are there noticeable benefits and disadvantages to each one?
You want your custom deck to increase the value of your home and impress your guests, and the material that you choose certainly influences both of these areas. So which material should you choose for your custom deck? Take a look at our comparison between composite and wood decking materials below so you can make the best choice for your project.
Wood Decking
Wood is a beautiful, natural material that works well for constructing most decks. There are many types of wood from which you can choose, with each one providing its own benefits. Wood decking provides a great atmosphere that incorporates the wilderness along with a modern, visually appealing design.
However, wood decking requires upkeep. To protect your wood deck from all of the elements during the different seasons, you’ll need to regularly stain and steal it. Brushing off pollen and other debris will also be necessary to ensure your wood deck stays safe from anything that can damage it, including bugs.
To really make your custom wood deck last, you’ll have to use some elbow grease and put forth a significant effort to keep it in good shape.
Composite Decking
Composite decks combine wood particles with a type of plastic material to create a durable hybrid building material. The plastic usually comes from recycled products, and the material generally requires a lower amount of maintenance. Unlike wood decking, you won’t need to stain, seal, or worry about debris on your composite deck. Plus it’s durable enough to last through any season without experiencing damage. There’s no burden and no worrying about warping, color fading, or rotting. You’ll also find that composite decks are much safer than wood decks. Composite material doesn’t have any splinters and is slip resistant, making it perfect for families with pets or small children.
The long-term cost of composite decking will end up being cheaper than wood decking. With a wood deck, you have to incorporate the cost of ongoing maintenance year after year, which will inevitably add up and be a pain to continually think about. However, once composite decking is installed, you’ll have no other price of upkeep to worry about. You’ll never have to waste a weekend afternoon staining or sealing your composite deck.
Both composite and wood decking will supply a beautiful deck that you’ll love to call your own, but composite decking is the clear choice over wood decking. While there are some benefits to owning a custom wood deck, there are too many disadvantages. With composite decking, you’ll have a safe deck that will last longer than a wood deck, and you won’t have to worry about maintenance.
To learn more about both composite and wood custom deck opportunities, you can contact Paul Construction LLC.
