Building a deck is a fantastic way to enhance your outdoor living space, adding both beauty and functionality to your home. However, with so many decking materials on the market, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. In recent years, composite decking has surged in popularity, offering a blend of durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance.
We’re here to break down everything you need to know about composite decking, including:
- Its composition
- Advantages
- Best composite decking brands
- Cost considerations
- Maintenance requirements
- Comparisons with wood decking
- Tips for finding a quality installer
What is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is a man-made building material composed of a blend of wood fibers, recycled plastics, and binding agents. This engineered product is designed to mimic the look and feel of natural wood while offering several distinct advantages over traditional wood decking.
✅ Pros of Composite Decking:
- Durability: Composite decking is highly resistant to rot, decay, mold, and insect damage, making it an ideal choice for outdoor environments exposed to the elements.
- Low Maintenance: Unlike wood decking, which requires regular sealing, staining, and painting, composite decking requires minimal maintenance. Simply cleaning with soap and water a few times a year is typically all that’s needed to keep it looking great.
- Aesthetics: With advancements in technology, composite decking now comes in a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes, allowing homeowners to achieve the look of natural wood or explore contemporary design options.
- Eco-Friendly: Many composite decking materials contain recycled content, reducing the demand for virgin materials and diverting waste from landfills.
- Longevity: High-quality composite decking can last upwards of 25 years or more with proper installation and maintenance, providing a long-lasting investment for your home.
❌ Cons of Composite Decking:
- Cost: While the initial cost of composite decking may be higher than wood, the long-term savings in maintenance and replacement costs often outweigh the upfront expense.
- Heat Retention: In sunny climates, some composite decking materials may retain more heat than wood, potentially making them uncomfortable to walk on with bare feet. However, advancements in technology have led to the development of cooler composite decking options.
- Limited Span Lengths: Composite decking typically has shorter span lengths than wood, meaning additional support may be required for larger deck designs.
Cost of Installing Composite Decking
The cost of installing a composite deck can vary depending on factors such as the size of the deck, the quality of the materials, labor costs in your area, and any additional features or upgrades. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $25 to $45 per square foot for composite decking installation, including materials and labor. Keep in mind that opting for premium composite decking materials or intricate designs may increase the overall cost.
6 Best Composite Decking Brands
When it comes to choosing the right composite decking for your project, selecting a reputable brand can make all the difference in terms of quality, performance, and long-term satisfaction. While there are many composite decking brands on the market, several stand out for their exceptional products and track record of customer satisfaction. Here are some of the top brands to consider:
1) Trex:
Trex is one of the most recognized names in the composite decking industry, known for its high-performance, low-maintenance decking products. With a wide range of colors, styles, and finishes to choose from, Trex offers versatility and durability backed by a 25-year limited warranty.
2) TimberTech:
TimberTech, now a part of the AZEK Building Products family, is renowned for its innovative composite decking solutions. Featuring advanced technology and realistic wood grain textures, TimberTech decking is engineered for lasting beauty and performance, with options for both capped and uncapped composite decking.
3) Fiberon:
Fiberon is another leading composite decking brand known for its quality craftsmanship and eco-friendly materials. With an extensive selection of colors and styles, Fiberon decking offers versatility and durability, backed by a 25-year stain and fade warranty for added peace of mind.
4) MoistureShield:
MoistureShield composite decking stands out for its patented Solid Core technology, providing enhanced strength, moisture resistance, and durability. Available in a variety of colors and finishes, MoistureShield decking is backed by a lifetime warranty for residential applications.
5) DuraLife:
DuraLife composite decking is engineered for performance and longevity, featuring a protective polyethylene coating for added resistance to stains, scratches, and fading. With a selection of color options and profiles, DuraLife decking offers beauty and durability backed by a 25-year limited warranty.
6) Deckorators:
Deckorators composite decking combines style and strength, with innovative designs and high-performance materials. Backed by a 25-year limited warranty, Deckorators decking offers beauty and durability for years of enjoyment.
When evaluating composite decking brands, consider factors such as product warranties, color options, texture, and overall aesthetics to find the best fit for your project. Additionally, be sure to read customer reviews and seek recommendations from trusted sources to ensure you’re choosing a brand known for quality and reliability.
Maintenance Requirements for Composite Decking
One of the main advantages of composite decking is its low maintenance requirements. To keep your composite deck looking its best, follow these simple maintenance tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Sweep or hose off debris and dirt from your deck regularly to prevent buildup. Use a mild detergent and water to scrub away stains or spills as needed.
- Prevent Mold and Mildew: Ensure proper ventilation around your deck and promptly address any areas prone to moisture buildup to prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Avoid Harsh Cleaners: While composite decking is durable, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they may damage the surface finish.
Comparing Composite Decking to Wood Decking
When weighing the pros and cons of composite decking versus wood decking, consider the following factors:
Durability:
Composite decking typically outperforms wood in terms of durability, as it is resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage.
Maintenance:
Composite decking requires minimal maintenance compared to wood, which needs regular sealing, staining, and painting to protect against moisture and UV damage.
Aesthetics:
While some homeowners prefer the natural look of wood, composite decking offers a wider range of colors and finishes, with the added benefit of uniformity in appearance.
Environmental Impact:
While both wood and composite decking have environmental considerations, composite decking often contains recycled materials, making it a more sustainable choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
Finding a Quality Installer
Choosing the right installer is crucial to ensuring the success and longevity of your composite decking project. Here are some tips for finding a reputable installer:
- Research: Take the time to research local decking contractors and read reviews from past customers to gauge their reputation and quality of work.
- Ask for References: Request references from potential installers and follow up with past clients to inquire about their experience and satisfaction with the installation process.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple installers to compare pricing, services offered, and timelines for completion.
- Check Credentials: Verify that the installer is licensed, insured, and experienced in installing composite decking to industry standards.
- Communication: Choose an installer who communicates effectively and listens to your needs, preferences, and concerns throughout the project.
Learn About the Best Composite Decking Products
Composite decking offers a compelling blend of durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance, making it an attractive choice for homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor living space. By understanding the composition, pros and cons, cost considerations, maintenance requirements, and comparison to wood decking, you can make an informed decision about whether composite decking is the right choice for your home.
Contact Voyager Exteriors to learn about the composite decks we’ve worked on in the past, and how we can support you in your installation.
