![]() Composite decking tends to last longer than natural wood, which should be factored into overall costs. Another important consideration is the lifespan of the product. However, species like cedar and redwood are more expensive than pine, as are popular exotics like ipe and cumaru, both of which are imported.Ĭomposite deck installation costs can be higher, since many types require more blocking and other details. Lumber prices have recently been up to three times higher than pre-pandemic prices and remain volatile, while composite decking prices are relatively stable.Īs of 2022, the cost of building a deck using store-bought pine was around $15 to $20 per square foot, whereas a composite deck costs more like $30 to $40 per square foot. The notion that wood decking is cheaper than composite is common, but it can be slightly misleading. Photo: Wooden decks generally cost less to build than those made with composite decking boards. While it may be possible to use some models, the extreme heat means this is not normally recommended for either wood or composite decking. Note: Composite decking is often fire-resistant, and some people assume they are therefore safe for fire pits. While extremely durable, it is completely inorganic and may be the least environmentally-friendly decking material. ![]() It’s made from a combination of plastics and minerals that are heated and extruded (molded under pressure) to form boards. This composite decking material can also be colored or textured to replicate wood effects. It does not stretch or warp, and it is impervious to water and insect attack. The big advantage of mineral-based composite (MBC) decking is its strength and stability. ![]() Although PVC is not organic, its molecular weight is more than 50 percent salt, and it’s more environmentally friendly than petrochemical-based plastics. It also has similar properties to lumber when worked. Made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with a dense honeycomb structure, it has the resistance to water, rot, and insects associated with plastic, but unlike most plastics, it can be painted if desired.ĭuring manufacture, cellular PVC decking boards often have a grain pattern added. Cellular PVCĬellular PVC is an increasingly popular fake wood for decks. Unfortunately, its fiber content means it’s not always as weather-resistant as other types of non-wood decking. It can even be sawed, drilled, nailed, or screwed much like natural lumber. Wood plastic composite is easy to color during production and can be painted after installation. Additionally WPC deck boards can be broken down and recycled into new WPC products after their useful life is over. This lumber composite often has good environmental credentials because the natural fibers can come from waste materials. Wood plastic composite (WPC) uses natural fibers from wood pulp, bamboo, bark, or nut hulls combined with plastic powder (usually polyethylene or polypropylene). To make an informed decision, take a closer look at the various alternatives to wooden decking currently available. ![]() While mostly true, composite deck boards come in a range of different materials that offer various benefits, and this can have a major impact on choice. Mention synthetic decking, and a common first thought is that they’re all made from plastics. It’s a natural product that can be sustainably produced, it helps the capture carbon as it grows, and it adds beauty to our homes when responsibly forested. Photo: Solid wood is a natural material whereas composite decking is man-made.įor many, there is an undeniable attraction to the appearance and feel of a real wood deck.
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