When it comes to selecting the best decking material for your outdoor area, two of the most common choices are composite decking boards and hardwood decking boards. Both have pros and cons, but if you want long-lasting, low-maintenance, and visually appealing decking, composite decking is becoming a popular alternative. In this article, we'll go over the main distinctions between composite and hardwood decking boards so you can make the best option for your project.
What are Composite Decking Boards?
Composite decking boards are produced from a combination of wood fibers, plastic, and bonding agents. This combination is formed into boards that nearly resemble genuine wood. The plastic component in composite decking is often recycled, giving it a more environmentally responsible alternative than certain conventional decking materials.
What Are Wood Decking Boards?
Wooden decking boards, as the name implies, are composed of natural wood. They come in a variety of species, including softwoods like pine and cedar and hardwoods like ipe, teak, and mahogany. Wood decking has always been a popular alternative for homeowners seeking a natural appearance and feel.
Now, let's compare composite vs hardwood decking boards in terms of durability, maintenance, cost, environmental effect, and aesthetics to help you decide which is best for your outdoor area.
Durability
Wooden Decking:Â Wood, being a natural material, is susceptible to weathering and degradation over time. Moisture may cause wood to bend, split, or decay, particularly in humid or rainy locations. Insects such as termites may also cause havoc on wooden decks, lowering their lifetime if not treated on a regular basis. Hardwoods are more durable than softwoods, although they cost more.
Composite Decking: In contrast, composite decking boards are very long-lasting and resistant to typical difficulties such as moisture damage, rotting, and insect infestation. Because of the plastic element, composite boards are engineered to tolerate adverse weather conditions without warping or splitting. They are designed to survive for decades, making them the better option in terms of durability.
Verdict: Composite decking boards are significantly more durable than wooden ones, particularly in places prone to dampness, heat, or insects.
Based on MaintenanceÂ
Wooden Decking:Â One of the most significant disadvantages of hardwood decking is the need for ongoing care. Sanding, staining, and resealing wooden decks regularly will keep them looking new. Furthermore, wooden decks should be cleaned regularly to avoid mold and mildew accumulation, particularly in moist conditions. Without adequate maintenance, wooden decks may soon decay, necessitating expensive repairs or replacements.
Composite Decking: In contrast, composite decking needs less care. Composite boards do not need sealing, staining, or painting since they withstand moisture and insect damage. To keep composite decking looking fresh, just clean it with soap and water. Due to its minimal maintenance requirements, composite decking is particularly attractive to busy households.
Verdict: Composite decking is easier to maintain than wood.
Aesthetics
Wooden Decking: Wood is recognized for its natural beauty, and many homeowners appreciate the warmth and character that wooden decking can provide. The texture and color variances present in real wood distinguish each deck, and for others, the weathering and aging of wood adds to its allure. If not properly maintained, wood will fade and change color over time.
Composite Decking: Composite decking has advanced significantly in terms of aesthetics. Today's composite boards are meant to seem like genuine wood, complete with grain textures and different hues. Composite decking has the benefit of not fading over time, unlike wood. In addition, composite decking comes in a greater range of colors, designs, and finishes, giving homeowners additional design options.
Verdict: If you like the natural appearance and feel of wood, hardwood decking may be your pick. However, composite decking provides adaptability and long-lasting beauty while requiring less care.
Cost: Initial Investment Versus Long-Term Savings
Wood Decking: In general, wood decking is less costly than brown composite decking. Softwoods such as pine and cedar are inexpensive, but hardwoods might be more costly. However, the reduced initial cost of wood decking may be countered by recurring maintenance expenditures. Refinishing, staining, and repairing hardwood decks may be costly in the long run.
Composite decking: Â This is often more costly upfront, but it saves money in the long run due to its low maintenance requirements and durability. It may be less expensive over time since you won't have to spend money staining, sealing, or replacing broken boards.
Verdict: While composite decking may be more expensive initially, it may save you money in the long term, owing to lower maintenance and replacement expenses.
Environmental Impact: Composite Decking Wins at Sustainability
Wooden decking: Â This may have a greater environmental impact, particularly when produced from non-sustainable forests. The desire for exotic hardwoods may lead to deforestation. However, wood is a natural, renewable resource that, when sustainably obtained, is a more environmentally responsible alternative to non-recycled materials.
Composite decking:Â This is frequently manufactured from recycled materials such as plastics and wood fibers. This implies that by using composite decking, you are helping to lessen the need for additional raw materials. Furthermore, since composite decks endure longer, they produce less trash over time. Many composite decking producers promote sustainability, including environmentally friendly techniques throughout their manufacturing processes.
Verdict: Composite decking has a lower environmental impact, particularly when manufactured from recycled materials.
Bottom Line
After comparing composite decking to hardwood decking, it is evident that composite decking boards have various benefits. If you're thinking about updating or creating a new deck, composite decking from Builders Merchant is a great option. Its resistance to extreme weather conditions and ecologically benign characteristics make it a standout choice. Furthermore, the range of finishes available means that you may pick a composite deck that matches the design of your house.
When you're ready to make the move, look into getting composite decking planks from a trustworthy Builders Merchant. Not only will you get high-quality materials, but you will also have access to experienced guidance and assistance, ensuring that your decking project runs smoothly from beginning to end.