Decking materials play a crucial role in creating outdoor spaces that are beautiful, durable, and low-maintenance. When it comes to decking options, two popular choices stand out: composite decking and PVC decking. Both offer a range of benefits and unique features, but understanding their differences is essential for making an informed decision. In this blog post, we will explore the disparities between composite decking and PVC decking, helping you determine which material suits your needs and preferences.
1. Composition
Composite Decking: Composite decking is crafted from a combination of wood fibers, recycled plastics, and bonding agents. The mixture is typically encapsulated with a protective layer, often made of polyethylene or polypropylene, to enhance durability and resistance to moisture, fading, and staining.
PVC Decking: PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking is a synthetic material made entirely of plastic. It is composed of a blend of PVC resins, stabilizers, and pigments. PVC boards are solid throughout and do not contain any organic materials like wood fibers.
2. Appearance
Composite Decking: Composite boards mimic the natural look and texture of wood. They are available in various colors and finishes, including realistic wood grain patterns, allowing homeowners to achieve the desired aesthetic. However, some composite decking may exhibit slight color fading over time.
PVC Decking: PVC decking is known for its uniform appearance and consistency in color. While it may lack the authentic wood grain texture, it offers a wide range of colors and finishes, often providing a cleaner and more contemporary look.
3. Durability and Maintenance
Composite Decking: Composite decking boasts excellent durability and resistance to rot, decay, and insect infestation. It is also less prone to splintering, warping, or cracking compared to traditional wood decking. Composite boards require minimal maintenance, typically limited to periodic cleaning with soap and water. However, they may still require occasional staining or sealing to maintain their appearance.
PVC Decking: PVC decking is highly resistant to moisture, mold, mildew, and pests. It is impervious to rotting, splintering, or warping, making it an ideal choice for areas with high humidity or near water. PVC boards are virtually maintenance-free, requiring only regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris.
4. Heat Retention
Composite Decking: Composite boards can retain more heat than PVC decking when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. However, advancements in composite technology have led to the development of heat-reflective and low-heat-absorbing options, mitigating this concern.
PVC Decking: PVC decking has a lower heat retention capacity, making it more comfortable underfoot during hot summer days. It remains cooler compared to composite decking, making it a preferable choice for areas with intense sun exposure.
5. Age and Maintenance
Composite Decking: Composite decking is typically more affordable than PVC decking, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners. The price may vary depending on the brand, quality, and additional features.
PVC Decking: PVC decking tends to be more expensive than composite decking due to its synthetic composition and durability. However, it offers long-term savings in terms of reduced maintenance costs.
Choosing between composite decking and PVC decking depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Composite decking provides a natural aesthetic and is a cost-effective option, requiring minimal maintenance. On the other hand, PVC decking offers superior moisture resistance, durability, and lower heat retention. If you’re ready to explore the world of composite and PVC decking further and find the perfect solution for your outdoor living space, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at West Shire Decks. With their extensive knowledge and experience, they can provide you with valuable insights and help you choose from a range of specific manufacturers that fit your budget. Contact West Shire Decks at 717.557.2340 today and embark on the journey to transform your outdoor living space into a stunning and functional oasis!