Is composite wood good for a deck?
While they often cost more than wood, composite materials offer the promise of greater durability and less maintenance. Wood is still the most common choice for deck material,1 but it doesn’t last forever. Composites may be more durable, but they might lack the natural look and color you are looking for. Premium PVC (Azek) and Mineral-Based Composite (Deckorators) are typically the most scratch-resistant composite decking material options. Heat Resistance: Dark-colored boards absorb more heat.Like many other outdoor walking surfaces, composite decking can get hot due to sun exposure and hot weather. That’s why it’s important to consider your climate, sun exposure, and deck color when choosing your boards.Modified wood beats the competition. Modified wood is arguably the best decking material on the market for homeowners, when it comes to composite decking alternatives. Even tropical hardwoods known for their density and durability can’t quite check off all the boxes that modified wood can.Composite decking remains a standout choice for homeowners seeking a durable and low-maintenance solution for their outdoor spaces. With an average lifespan of 25 to 30 years or more, it outperforms traditional wood and other materials, offering long-term value and enduring beauty.When comparing UPVC or composite decking, UPVC comes out ahead. It is more durable and requires less maintenance compared to composite decking. It does not rot, warp, or splinter, and it remains slip-resistant even when wet.
Is a composite deck cheaper than wood?
However, deciding between traditional wood and composite decking can feel overwhelming. While wood offers a classic and often cheaper upfront cost, composite decking is known for its durability and low maintenance. Composite decking is designed to resist moisture and insects, but it is still affected by ultraviolet light. Prolonged sun exposure breaks down surface pigments and can lead to fading or color shift over time. Manufacturers account for this and often note that some degree of fading is expected as the material weathers.Materials made largely from plastic become softer when the weather gets hotter. This means that composite decking can warp and become distorted during hot weather and direct sunlight. This is why the timber joists supporting most composite deck boards must be installed at much closer centres than for timber decking.However, it’s the natural wood fibres in the boards that cause subtle fading over time. Just like wallpaper exposed to direct sunlight or timber that naturally bleaches, composite decking is also subject to some degree of colour fade, especially during the first few months after installation.
How much does a 20×20 composite deck cost per?
On average, the cost of a 20×20 composite deck in 2025 ranges between $10,000 and $18,000, depending on the materials, location, and labor. That translates to about $25 to $25 per square foot for a fully installed deck. Michigan homeowners might see slight variations due to regional labor rates and seasonal demand. According to the Remodeling Magazine cost vs. This initial price difference of 33%, or about $6,000, can make the wood seem like the more affordable choice.Composite decking costs about $5 to $13 per square foot. A 12×12 deck would cost about $2,200 to $5,600. Brands like Trex are popular because they’re strong and need little care. Composite decks resist rot, insects, and moisture better than wood.The cost of a 20×20 deck can vary greatly depending on materials, labor, location, and additional features. On average, you might expect to pay between $12,000 and $24,000 for a professional installation of this size.
What is better than composite decking?
Modified wood beats the competition. Modified wood is arguably the best decking material on the market for homeowners, when it comes to composite decking alternatives. Even tropical hardwoods known for their density and durability can’t quite check off all the boxes that modified wood can. Cost: Trex decking tends to be more expensive upfront compared to traditional wood decking materials. Heat Retention: In hot climates, Trex decking can retain heat, making it uncomfortable to walk on barefoot during peak summer months.Trex outperforms other decking material options. Designed with lasting beauty, incredible durability and easy maintenance, there’s no compromising with high-performance decking.
What ruins composite decking?
Intense sunlight: Although premium composite decking is UV-resistant, prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight can cause the surface to fade and discolour over time. High-pressure washers: High-pressure washers can strip the protective cap, leaving the board vulnerable to fading, stains, and water absorption. Salt Damage to Composite Decking Sodium chloride (rock salt) and other de-icing chemicals draw moisture out of the air and cause it to wick into composite deck boards. This leads to swelling as the materials absorb water. Repeated cycles of swelling and drying also cause warping and cracks to form.
Which is better wood or composite decking?
Durable – Composite decking lasts longer than wood and is designed to withstand extreme weather and temperatures to last many years. Most composite decking comes with a warranty. More styles – Lots of styles, colours and finishes are available. Composite Decking: Life Expectancy: Generally 25 to 30 years or more. Maintenance: Minimal maintenance is needed; usually just cleaning with soap and water. Factors: The quality of the composite material and proper installation can affect its longevity.Typically, composite decking can last 25 to 30 years or more when properly maintained. Some high-end products even boast warranties extending up to 50 years.
What are the disadvantages of composite decking?
The four disadvantages of composite decking are that it fades with sunlight, warps in hot weather, wears down in high-traffic areas, and, worst of all, causes timber subframes to rot and become unsafe. Interestingly, all these issues can be solved by choosing an aluminium decking board that has an integral gutter. A 20×20 deck costs between $16,000 and $24,000 or more, depending on the materials you choose, labor rates in your area, and the complexity of the design.On average, you can expect to pay between $16 and $32 per square foot for composite decking materials alone, with total installed costs ranging from $40 to $80 per square foot. The variation in price depends on the brand, quality, and type of composite material you choose.