Composite Decking

7 Reasons to Choose a Composite Deck Over Wood

By Colby Coward / January 31, 2023

Are you looking for a way to enhance your outdoor living space? Composite decks are an attractive and durable alternative to traditional wood, providing homeowners with many benefits, such as low maintenance requirements. If you’re considering installing a new deck in your backyard, read for more information about the advantages of a composite deck.

house with composite deck

Benefits of a Composite Deck

Composite decking is a popular choice for homeowners creating an outdoor living space. This type of decking offers many benefits over traditional wood decks, including durability, low maintenance, and cost-effectiveness.

Durability

Composite decks are made from recycled materials that are highly resistant to weather damage and wear and tear. They can last up to 25 years with proper care and maintenance, making them an excellent long-term investment for your home. Additionally, they don’t require the same level of upkeep if they were wooden —they won’t need to be stained or sealed every few years like wood does to maintain their look and structural integrity. 

Low Maintenance

Composite decks require very little upkeep compared to wooden ones. They need occasional cleaning with soap and water or a pressure washer; no staining or sealing is required. This makes them an ideal choice for busy homeowners who don’t have time for regular maintenance tasks but still want a beautiful outdoor living space they can enjoy year-round without worrying about its condition deteriorating over time due to lack of attention. 

Cost-Effective

The upfront cost of installation may be higher than that of a wooden one, but the long-term savings make it worth considering if you plan on staying in your home for several years or more. Not only will you save money on not having to stain or seal the deck every few years (as mentioned above), but also, because composite material doesn’t rot as wood does so, there’s less chance of needing costly repairs down the line due to decay caused by moisture exposure over time.

Overall, investing in composite decking provides many advantages when creating an outdoor living space that looks great now while also standing up against Mother Nature’s elements in the future. Composite decking is a great long-term investment for your home with its durability, low maintenance requirements, and cost-effectiveness.

Wood vs. Composite Deckingcomposite deck

Wood and composite decking materials are two of the most popular options for outdoor living spaces. Both offer a range of benefits, but it’s essential to understand their differences before deciding which material is best for your project.

Strength and Durability

Wood decking is typically made from pressure-treated lumber that has been treated with chemicals to make it resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage. While wood can be strong and durable if properly maintained, its natural properties mean that it will require regular maintenance, such as staining or sealing, to keep it looking good over time. Composite decking is made from recycled plastic and wood fibers combined with resins or other binding agents to form a solid board that won’t warp or splinter like traditional wood decks. Composite decks are also highly resistant to rot, decay, insects, moisture damage, UV rays from the sun, and more – meaning they don’t need any special treatments or maintenance to look great year after year.

Maintenance Requirements

Wooden decks require regular maintenance, such as staining or sealing, to protect them against weather damage and wear and tear. This means having an ongoing cost associated with keeping your wooden deck looking good each season. On the other hand, composite decks require no additional treatments beyond basic cleaning with soap & water every few months – saving you both money & time compared with maintaining a wooden deck.

Wood and composite decking offer unique benefits, depending on the homeowner’s needs. However, composite decking is often the better option when it comes to maintenance requirements and environmental impact. With that in mind, let’s look at some tips for maintaining a composite deck.

Tips for Maintaining a Composite Deck

Cleaning and Sealing the Deck Regularly

To keep your composite deck looking its best, it’s important to clean and seal it regularly. This will help protect the surface from dirt, debris, moisture damage, and UV rays. A mild detergent can be used for regular cleaning of the deck surface. For tougher stains or mold growth, a pressure washer may be necessary. After cleaning, use a water-resistant sealant to protect against further damage.

Inspecting the Deck for Damage or Wear and Tear

Over time wear and tear can occur on any outdoor structure, including composite decks. Inspecting your deck from for signs of damage, such as cracking boards or loose screws that need tightening up, is important. If you notice any issues with your deck, ensure they are addressed immediately to prevent further deterioration over time.

Composite decks are designed to withstand all types of weather conditions. However, they still require some protection from sun exposure which can cause fading over time, as well as moisture which can lead to rot if not properly sealed off from rainwater runoff or pooling water around its base area. To ensure maximum longevity, consider investing in an umbrella shade cover for sunny days and waterproof membranes beneath planters placed near your deck so that water does not seep into cracks between boards, causing rotting wood underneath them.

Design Options for Composite Deckscomposite deck

When it comes to designing a composite deck, there are many options available. Color and texture are two of the most important factors when choosing a material. They come in various colors, from light to dark hues, and various textures that can mimic natural wood grain or be completely smooth. Different shapes and sizes are available for those looking to fit their space needs. From traditional rectangular decks to more unique designs, you’ll find something that perfectly fits your outdoor living area.

Customizable features also add an extra level of personalization to your composite deck design. Railing systems provide safety while adding visual appeal. Deck lighting is another way to customize your outdoor living space by providing aesthetic beauty and functional illumination at nighttime. Finally, built-in benches offer seating without taking up too much room on the deck while allowing plenty of room for other activities, such as grilling out or hosting friends around the fire pit after sunset.

For homeowners looking for an easy-to-maintain solution that won’t break the bank but will last them years into the future, a composite deck may be just what they need. With so many design options available, anyone can easily create their dream outdoor living space.

With the many design options available, you can create a custom outdoor living space to fit your needs and budget. Now let’s look at some financing options to help make it happen.

Key Takeaway: Composite decks offer homeowners an easy-to-maintain solution with customizable features like railing systems, deck lighting, and built-in benches. Choose from various colors and textures to create the perfect outdoor living space.

Financing Options for Installing a Composite Deck

Are you interested in financing your composite deck or outdoor living project? Texas Best Fence & Patio offers excellent options for customers who prefer to finance their composite deck installation. Financing these types of projects allow homeowners to get a revolving line of credit through Wells Fargo Outdoor Solutions. You can use the line of credit repeatedly, with convenient monthly payments to fit your budget, making it an attractive choice for those looking to finance a project. 

FAQs about Composite Deck

How much does it cost to build a 20×20 composite deck?

The cost of building a 20×20 composite deck will depend on the materials used, the complexity of the design, and labor costs. Depending on your location and chosen material, a composite deck could cost between $7,600 and $19,700, whereas a PVC deck could cost between $22,100 to $26,800. Labor costs may also vary depending on how complex the design is or if additional features are included. It is best to consult with your project manager for an accurate estimate.

Is composite decking better than wood?

Composite decking is an excellent option for homeowners creating an outdoor living space. It offers many advantages over traditional wood decking, including greater durability and lower maintenance requirements. Composite decking is also more resistant to rot, mold, and insect damage than wood. Additionally, they are available in various colors and styles that can be tailored to fit any backyard design. Ultimately, deciding between composite and wood depends on individual preferences and budget considerations.

Is composite decking better than vinyl?

The answer to this question depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. Composite decking is more durable than vinyl, made from wood fibers and plastic. It also requires less maintenance than vinyl since it does not need to be stained or sealed regularly. However, they can be more expensive upfront compared to vinyl. Vinyl may require less upkeep but will likely need replacing sooner due to its shorter lifespan when exposed to extreme weather conditions or heavy foot traffic. Ultimately, deciding between composite and vinyl comes from personal preference and budget considerations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, composite decks are an excellent choice for homeowners who want to enjoy their outdoor living space. They offer many benefits, such as durability, low maintenance, and design options that can fit any style. Compared to wood decks, composite decks are more resistant to the weather and insect damage. With proper care, your deck will last for years. 

Are you looking to upgrade your outdoor living space? Look no further than Texas Best Fence & Patio for the perfect composite deck solution. Our experienced contractors are ready to help design and install a custom, low-maintenance deck that will last for years.  Contact us today for more information about our services, and let’s start building the outdoor oasis of your dreams!

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Now that you’re thinking of the main types of outdoor structures
and their uses, you can create a concept that works for your
family. Keep in mind the purpose of the structure, whether natural
light in your home is a factor, and where you want the focal point
of your backyard to be. Once your gears get turning, reach out to
request an estimate on your concept.
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