What is the downside of PVC decking?
Cons of PVC Decks It is generally more expensive upfront than traditional wood or composite materials. Temperature Sensitivity: PVC decks can become quite hot underfoot in direct sunlight and can also expand and contract with temperature changes, which may require additional considerations during installation. Limited color choices and designs mean it falls short in mimicking natural wood’s aesthetics. It also expands and contracts with temperature changes, causing long-term damage. Additionally, PVC decks are environmentally detrimental due to their non-biodegradable nature.PVC Decking (Our Preferred Choice) PVC decking has become the top choice for homeowners who want a beautiful deck without the constant upkeep. It’s fully water-resistant, won’t warp, rot, or host mold, and requires only the occasional rinse to look like new.In real-life use, durability is where Trex excels. Its dense composite core resists scratches, dents, and heavy impacts better than PVC deck boards. This strength makes it ideal for high-traffic areas, pet zones, and outdoor furniture-heavy setups.It also resists mold and rot in wet conditions, and it doesn’t fade in the sun. Trex composite decking is one of the longest-lasting deck materials and can last 25 to 50 years with minimum care.Composite is more durable In terms of withstanding the elements, composite has the upper hand because they expand and contract less than PVC. This makes composite decking the better material when extreme temperatures is concerned.
Is PVC good for a deck?
Best for water: PVC Synthetic PVC wins again for water resistance, so it’s great for poolside decks and properties exposed to saltwater. TimberTech Advanced PVC decking is also slip resistant and protected against algae, mold, and mildew, so it’s safer for wet surfaces than other materials. In extremely hot weather, composite decking can be prone to warping and bending due to the expansion of plastic components at a different rate than the wood fibres. High-quality composite decking is engineered to minimise these effects, but it’s still a consideration in areas with significant temperature fluctuations.No, even when wet, composite decking has a low risk for slip potential. Keeping your deck clear of mildew and algal growth will help preserve the non-slip properties.Surface Temperature: Composite decking remains cooler than PVC, which is beneficial in hot climates where decks are exposed to prolonged sunlight. This keeps the deck comfortable for barefoot walking during the warmer months.
How long will a PVC deck last?
More specifically, TimberTech Advanced PVC and Composite Decking are designed with innovative technology that makes for highly durable, long-lasting decking. The average composite decking lifespan is estimated to be 25 to 30 years. The average PVC decking lifespan is estimated to be 50 years, or more. Larger decks will likely cost more, depending on the materials you choose. Based on these cost estimates, a 1,000 sq.PVC Decking: PVC decking is similar in cost to composite decking, with prices ranging from $5 to $12 per square foot. It’s highly resistant to moisture and mold but can be less visually appealing and more prone to fading.Generally, Trex decking can be a bit more expensive, given its high durability and eco-friendliness. Fiberon offers a middle-of-the-road option in terms of cost. TimberTech, however, usually falls on the higher end of the pricing spectrum due to its superior durability and wide range of color and style options.Trex Select & Trex Enhance Expect an average cost of Trex decking per sq ft between $5 and $8 for Enhance, and $8 to $13 for Select and Select 2.
What is the longest lasting deck material?
When it comes to durability, ipe wood and PVC or composite decking are top contenders. Ipe is an extremely dense hardwood known for its exceptional strength and longevity but comes with high maintenance and cost. Compared with what has been discussed already, some cheaper alternatives to wooden decking boards include rubber mats, wood chippings and pallet decking. These more budget-friendly options may not have the same aesthetic appeal as timber, composite or PVC decking – but they do come with their benefits.Homeowners might find that material costs alone could range between $3,000 to $6,000, depending on the type of Trex deck boards selected. Adding professional installation can increase the overall expense by approximately $2,000 to $5,000, depending on labor rates and complexity of installation requirements.A well-designed deck can significantly boost your home’s value and deliver a strong return on investment (ROI). According to the 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, a typical wood deck recoups about 83% of its cost at resale, while a composite deck offers an ROI of roughly 68% nationwide.Total Estimated Cost Depending on material selection, optional features, and labor expenses, the total cost for a 20×20 composite deck typically falls between $4,848 and $13,560.
Which is better, Trex or PVC decking?
Trex decking is a much eco-friendlier choice than PVC. Only Trex decking can offer you these benefits along with its top-notch visual aesthetics and durability. There is no match for Trex decking when it comes to composite decking. Overall, composite decking is a great choice for those looking for an alternative to traditional wood decking. It has many benefits, including being environmentally friendly and easy to maintain. However, it is important to be aware of the potential for it to become slippery in winter weather conditions.While it might seem counterintuitive, the colder months often provide the best conditions for building a deck. During spring, most areas of the U. S. The topsoil layer can become more saturated and any clay subsoils might be easier to dig as the water will have softened the clay.
Is PVC decking cheaper than wood?
For a 200-square-foot deck, the cost might range from $3,000-$5,000 for wood and $4,000-$6,000 for PVC. Pressure-treated pine is the most affordable, while exotic hardwoods come with a higher initial price. PVC decking, however, generally ranges from $10-$15 per square foot, which makes it more expensive initially. 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.Labor costs to install composite decking range from $24 to $48 per square foot. Therefore, including the substructure, the cost of installing composite decking is between $40 and $80 per square foot. Ultimately, a 20’x20′ composite decking can cost between $16,000 and $32,000 to build.Professional installation fees typically range from $24 to $48 per square foot. This means that labor alone could cost between $4,800 and $9,600 for a 200-square-foot deck. Elevated decks, multi-level designs, or decks with custom features will incur higher labor costs due to their increased complexity.Breaking Down the Cost of a 12×12 Trex Deck Materials: With a 144 square foot area, material costs might range from $2,160 to $5,472 depending on the Trex line. Labor: Installation prices can vary, averaging between $1,440 and $2,160.
What is the least expensive deck material?
Available at every big box and mom-and-pop hardware store, pressure-treated deck boards are a tried-and-true building material. This is the least expensive decking material by far, but it also has the most drawbacks that explain the low cost. Total Estimated Cost Depending on material selection, optional features, and labor expenses, the total cost for a 20×20 composite deck typically falls between $4,848 and $13,560.A DIY deck building can indeed offer cost savings, particularly on labor. However, the benefits of hiring a professional, from assured quality to regulatory compliance, might justify the added expense, particularly when longevity and satisfaction are factored into the equation.Build a Deck with Cost-effective Materials Some of the most affordable decking materials would be pressure-treated wood, composite decking, PVC decking, Cedar or Redwood Decking, and recycled materials. Choosing which kind of decking material you want will greatly influence the cost of your deck-building project.