Should You Build Your Deck from Wood or Composite Decking Material

Does the idea of relaxing on your deck with a drink in your hand appeal to you?

If you’re a Michigan or Ohio homeowner and you spend time outdoors during the warmer weather, you’ve likely considered adding a deck to the back of your house. Not only do you have to consider the size and style of your deck, but you must also decide on what decking material to use. Most Michigan or Ohio homeowners choose between wood and composite decking.

Although building a deck only takes a few weeks, the results will last for years and years so make a wise decision. Composite decking is a better choice. Let’s see why.

What’s the Difference?

First, let’s start with the basics. We all know what wood is, but you may not be too sure about composite.

Composite is a type of plastic which also contains wood particles that may or may not be recycled. Composite decking can be hollow core or solid. Hollow boards are less expensive and they tend to expand and contract less. If they do expand or contract, only a small area is usually affected. Because they’re hollow on the inside, they hold water which means warping and deterioration. Solid boards, on the other hand, are more expensive and expand and contract more. They’re also stronger than hollow boards and look more like real wood. Composite decking offers more sizes, colors, and choices than wood decks.

Wood decks are natural and long-lasting. And just like with composite decking, you have numerous choices in wood and wood treatments. Your choices in wood are only limited by your climate and your budget. But, warping, rotting, and splitting are common occurrences with wood decks.

What about Price?

Composite decks are generally more expensive than a wood deck when you only consider up front pricing, depending upon the features you select. But maintenance is usually less expensive than wood decks over time, so you’ll have to consider your current and future budget when you’re making a buying decision.

How Does it Hold Up?

Composite decking is low maintenance, especially when compared to wood decking. But the color can fade, they can warp, and they are not scratch resistant. You can’t paint them, although some companies will tell you otherwise. On the other hand, pressure washing and regular cleaning go a long way towards keeping your deck in great shape. Another benefit of composite decking is that you’ll never have to sand, stain or scrape. As a bonus, it offers a better resale value when you sell your home.

Because wood naturally weathers more quickly than composite materials, maintenance is also more regular. With wood decks, you’ll need to pressure wash them yearly, and apply a stain every few years. Part of the maintenance is sanding, staining, and scraping.

Composite decking offers more upfront color and size options, less recurring maintenance, and better durability than wood decking. Although the upfront price is higher, the other benefits make it an overall better selection than wood decking.

Choose a professional composite decking Michigan contractor and build the composite deck of your dreams. Before you know it you’ll be preparing and eating your dinners on the back deck.