Composite decking is a popular choice for bringing the beauty of a natural-looking deck to an outdoor living space, minus the hassle of regular upkeep and high maintenance costs. Read on to learn about the benefits and drawbacks of composite decking and where to find high-performing composite deck products.
What is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is made from a combination of wood fibers and recycled polyethylene. The introduction of plastics into the wood material creates a board that resists moisture and insects, resulting in a deck that has around twice the lifespan of natural wood. Composite decking is manufactured in a wide range of colors and wood grain effects, and it can be “capped” with an outer layer of polymers for added protection.
Capped composite deck boards have a hard outer shell made from plastic polymers to provide extra protection against water, stains, and UV damage. This hard, synthetic wrap creates a scratch-resistant, fade-resistant, and low-maintenance decking product.
Premier decking manufacturer TimberTech offers deck boards that are capped on three sides to protect the upper surface and edges, or fully wrapped on all four sides for superior protection.
Advantages of Composite Decking
Composite decking is a modern solution to many of the frustrations that come with natural wood decks. It’s also more affordable up front than fully synthetic PVC decking and most wood decking options. With a long lifespan and almost no maintenance required, it’s easy to see why composite decks are a popular choice for outdoor living spaces! Here are a few of the top reasons to choose composite decking:
Durable Lifespan
While a well-maintained wood deck will last around 10-15 years, a high-quality composite deck can be enjoyed for twice as long. Capped composite decks from TimberTech, for example, have a lifespan of 25 to 30+ years. This durable decking material is made to last without splintering, cracking, warping, or peeling.
Low Maintenance
One of the main reasons to choose composite decking over traditional wood decking is because this product is virtually maintenance-free. You can also expect a high-performing composite deck to maintain its rich color — no staining or painting required! The only necessary upkeep for a composite deck is periodically cleaning the surface to prevent dirt and mildew build-up. Find more care details in our guide on How to Clean a Composite Deck.
Moisture Resistance
Unlike wood decks that are vulnerable to mold and rot from exposure to water, high-quality composite decks are moisture and mold-resistant when fully capped. This feature is one of the primary reasons why composite decks last so long and don’t require involved maintenance. Capped composite boards are especially beneficial for decks that are low to the ground and tend to trap moisture underneath.
Slip Resistance and Heat Resistance
Two of the most practical considerations for a deck are whether it will get too hot to walk on or be too slippery. Composite decks are known for being highly slip-resistant, making them a great choice for pool areas or rainy locations. High-quality composite materials are also heat-resistant for comfortable, year-round use.
However, it’s important to note that all decking materials get hot in the sun. If a deck is frequently exposed to full sun, it’s a good idea to choose a light, reflective deck color that will stay cooler in the summer – such as TimberTech’s Whitewash Cedar decking.
Do composite boards expand and contract?
Composite deck boards are less affected by temperature fluctuation than traditional wood decking, but a capped composite plank still expands and contracts along the length of the board. Composite decking should not be left out in the heat before installation, because it will be expanded when fastened and contract as it cools down — causing wide, uneven gaps. Try to install deck boards during times of the day when the temperature is cooler or the area is in shade.
Cost Effectiveness
Composite decks cost more than traditional decking materials like pressure-treated lumber, but they offer long-term durability without the maintenance costs of real wood decks. Composite decking is also a more affordable choice than PVC decking. It’s a convenient, in-between option for those who want a low-maintenance deck that doesn’t come at the price of a fully synthetic alternative.
Seamless Look
Composite decking is designed to accommodate hidden fasteners, so if you’d like a deck design with no visible screws, it’s easier to accomplish a seamless look with manufactured deck boards. Just be sure to use the recommended fasteners for the specific composite decking product that you choose to avoid damaging the boards.
Disadvantages of Composite Decking
High-quality composite decking offers many benefits, but it’s worth considering these drawbacks and what impact they may have on your project:
Shorter Lifespan than PVC
A PVC deck is the longest-lasting deck material on the market. A composite deck lasts approximately twice as long as a wood deck, but it won’t reach the impressive lifespan of a fully synthetic deck. TimberTech’s PVC decking, for example, has an estimated lifespan of 50 years or more.
Heavier Deck Boards than PVC or Wood
Due to the density of the material, composite decking is usually heavier than PVC decking and wood decking alternatives like pressure-treated lumber or hardwoods. This can pose a challenge for homeowners who plan to DIY their new deck install.
Higher Upfront Cost than Some Wood
In general, composite decking is a cost-effective choice. It’s got a lower price tag than PVC and most wood decks, especially after you factor in volatile lumber prices and the ongoing maintenance costs of wood decks. However, certain types of wood materials, most notably pressure-treated lumber, will likely be less expensive to purchase.
Why We Love TimberTech Composite Decks
TimberTech Legacy Collection composite decking in Ashwood with accents of Espresso
Ring’s End is proud to sell high-performing TimberTech composite and PVC decks. One of the best composite decking manufacturers in the USA, TimberTech engineers high-quality decking products designed for both beauty and durability — with a wide range of realistic nature-inspired colors, surface textures, and grain patterns to choose from.
TimberTech composite decks are also backed by 25 to 30-year limited warranties for peace of mind. To learn more, check out our TimberTech product guide or reach out to one of our expert sales representatives! We’ll be happy to help.
Explore TimberTech Composite Decks at Ring’s End
Ring’s End is a trusted dealer of TimberTech products for the Northeast — serving Connecticut, Westchester County, NY, and South County, Rhode Island. We supply a vast selection of deck-building materials, and our experienced team would love to help you find the perfect fit for your project or answer any questions you may have. Contact our decking experts through our online chat or by texting (203)-PRO HELP.