Decking Guide: Wood, Composite, PVC & Other Materials Compared

Installing a new deck creates invaluable outdoor living space to relax, dine, or entertain. But choosing the right decking materials is crucial for building your dream deck. Your deck board selection impacts aesthetics, function, cost, and maintenance needs over your deck’s lifetime. This comprehensive guide compares wood, composite, PVC, and other options to help find the best decking material for your home.

Wood Decking

Wood makes a classic decking choice with timeless beauty and warmth. Although wood needs more routine maintenance than synthetic alternatives, many homeowners find the extra care worthwhile. Here are common wood decking varieties:

Cedar

With natural rot resistance, western red cedar is a popular decking wood. It has a subtle grain pattern and attractive reddish-brown tones. As a softwood, cedar is fairly scratch and split-resistant. It weathers elegantly into a silvery gray patina over time.

Pressure-Treated Pine

As the most budget-friendly option, pressure-treated pine contains preservatives that resist decay and insects. This creates a vibrant greenish-yellow color. But pine is more prone to visible splintering than cedar. Its wood grain also tends to be more pronounced.

Tropical Hardwoods

Extremely dense tropical varieties like ipe, tigerwood, and garapa make durable decking woods. Their density provides resilience against moisture, pests, and heavy use without added chemicals. However, sustainability concerns exist, and costs run higher than domestic species.

Composite Decking

Composite decking combines recycled wood fibers and plastic polymers to create a low-maintenance, splinter-free alternative to solid wood. Composites closely mimic the look of natural woodgrain because it contains approximately equal parts recycled plastic and wood particles. These ingredients are melted and extruded into durable boards with realistic woodgrain patterns.

PVC Decking

Alternative Decking Options

Beyond conventional wood and synthetic decking, here are some unique alternatives:

Aluminum

Extruded aluminum decking creates a contemporary, metallic look. Aluminum never needs staining or sealing but can get extremely hot in sunlight. The appeal is also limited.

Concrete

Poured concrete makes a seamless, durable surface. Stamping and staining provide visual interest. However, cracks may form over time without proper sealing, causing water damage. In-floor heating prevents icy areas.

Tile

Ceramic and porcelain tiles bring elegant, fade-resistant aesthetics. But grout line maintenance is required. Also, freezing temperatures can damage improperly installed tiles. Careful installation with proper drainage prevents cracking.

Rubber

Promoted for traction, sound absorption, and shock absorption, rubber deck tiles contain recycled tires. Manufacturers tout excellent durability, but there’s limited long-term data since it’s a newer niche product.

So, What’s the Best Decking Material?

Every decking option carries pros, cons, and tradeoffs. Wood needs the most maintenance but offers treasured natural beauty. Composites like Trex minimize upkeep while mimicking real wood’s look. PVC also resists weathering but can get hot underfoot.

Ultimately, weigh your priorities like budget, lifestyle, design style, and maintenance tolerance. Although synthetics simplify upkeep, they lack wood’s authenticity. With proper installation and care, you can achieve lasting satisfaction from quality deck materials. Experienced deck builders are invaluable partners.

Learn More About Decking

The Bottom Line

Choosing your decking impacts aesthetics, function, and maintenance needs. Carefully weigh your budget, lifestyle, and design goals when reviewing wood, composite, PVC, and alternative decking materials. Then partner with an experienced deck pro to build your dream outdoor oasis using the ideal combination of boards. Invest thoughtfully, care for your deck diligently, and enjoy decades of outdoor living in a space perfectly tailored to you.