Is Composite Decking Really More Expensive Than Timber?

TimberTech offers warranties up to 50 years depending on which style you choose. The most popular plastic decking material is polyvinyl chloride , although there are also versions made from polyethylene. Just like composite decking, plastic is durable and easy to maintain, requiring regular cleaning with just a garden hose or bucket and mop. Unlike a natural wood deck that can last years before needing repair, composite won't splinter, rot or become susceptible to insect damage. Additionally, most composite decks have built-in UV resistance, so they won't fade or lighten as much as natural wood would over time. And while it's true that composite decks cost more to build than a pressure treated deck, the price gap between the two options long term is much closer than you might expect.

• 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:

According to HomeAdvisor, a wood deck could take up to three or four weeks to build, but with composite decking technology, you could be sitting pretty that much sooner. If you’re looking for easy maintenance, you should go with composite decking. It still needs occasional scrubbing but it doesn’t require sealing and repairing. Some people enjoy taking care of their wooden decks, even though it can be quite a hassle to do so. The second decking type discussed in this article is composite decking.

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.

There are still a few tips and ideas you can put to good use if you choose to stick with timber or otherwise. The price you’ll pay for garden decking is, naturally, going to vary from product to product. Therefore, take my following advice as basic guidance and apply it to your own shopping experiences. Rubber Paving is another popular option in British gardens. Again, while the idea of a rubber deck might not appeal to you per se, just take a look at an example. Rubber paving tiles are super-durable, are resistant against the weather, and are very comfortable underfoot. What’s more, you might actually find it cheaper to wooden decking in the long run.

Whats Better: Real Wood Or Composite Wood?

Other than that, most composite decks come with long warranties, which can’t be said for the wooden ones. Make sure to choose high-quality composite decking boards to ensure longevity and durability. You can check this site out if you’re interested in browsing through some great examples. Yes, wood has a lower initial cost when purchasing the materials. Giving wood an advantage, and using a very low estimate of $115 per square metre for wood, on a 20 square metre deck, the initial cost is only $2,300 in materials.

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.

Strength and durability are unparalleled, and the finish is equally appealing. Due to its lightweight properties, it is also easily installed. Composite decking has gained popularity over the last few years, due to the durability and strength. Constructed of recycled plastic and wood fibers, the resistance to slips, rot, UV rays and pests is unmatched. This virtually indestructible composite is appropriate for a wide range of decking needs. The cost of composite is relatively higher, at 2 to 5 times more than a traditional wood deck.