The Difference Between Composite and Wood Decking (and How to Choose)
Terraces can be a popular addition, allowing you to better enjoy outdoor space and add value to your home. But when it comes time to choose between composite, hardwood, and even hybrid, there are several factors to consider, including cost, durability, and aesthetics.
Various types of flooring materials
The two main types of deck boards you can buy are composite , which cost $15 to $38 per square foot, and wood , which average $10 to $25 per square foot. There are also hybrid decking boards that have both elements and are popular in Europe but are becoming more available in the US as well. Within these categories, there are a number of material types that affect cost and application. Some things to consider when choosing the best materials for your deck surface are climate, durability, cost, and paintability.
Here’s what you need to know about the different types of flooring to help you decipher the labels and choose the one that’s right for your needs.
Composite flooring
Composite plastic decking comes in three types: PVC, PP plastic and PE plastic. These three types can cost anywhere from $2 per linear foot (or board foot) to $5 per linear foot – and can cost more or less, depending on your deck design.
The advantages of plastic composite decking are that it is termite and rot resistant, withstands the elements well, and can last up to twice as long as wood decking. The disadvantages are that some types of composite decking cannot be painted, can be slippery and need texturing to prevent falling around pools or after rain, and all your sawdust needs to be collected and disposed of because it is not biodegradable and will last in the soil for years. .
wooden flooring
Wood decking comes in pressure-treated options that cost between $15 and $38 per square foot; cedar, which costs more than $30 per square foot; and many other hardwoods. Some hardwood can cost anywhere from $2.60 to $5 per linear foot, but be aware that not all deck boards are the same width, so the price per square foot may be higher than you expect – be sure to get a price per square foot . for accurate price comparisons.
The pros of wood decking are aesthetics and price because it can be cheaper than composite decking and can be repainted or polished many times. It also tends to be less slippery when wet and can be easily modified to be slip resistant. The cons of wood flooring is that while it can be termite and pest resistant, no wood is completely termite resistant. It is also in climates where temperatures fluctuate widely. and freezing can occur, wood flooring can swell and crack if there are any gaps in the finish, making it vulnerable to the elements.
Composite or wood flooring
By comparison, composite decking typically requires a higher initial investment but will last longer than most wood decking, so it may be a cheaper option in the long run. It also has the advantage of increasing the resale value of your home if you plan to sell it. Wooden decks are initially cheaper and easier to modify. In addition to lower material costs, wood decking also requires lower labor costs due to the extra work of collecting and removing sawdust from plastic deckboards.
Other factors that go into the cost of a new deck are things like shape and configuration. For example, it is much cheaper to build a terrace on a flat surface than on a slope. If you like the look of wood, durable hardwood is a good choice because some hardwoods, like ironwood, are virtually termite-proof and also scratch-resistant. These options tend to be the most expensive, but they also tend to last the longest and require the least maintenance.
Some composite decking can be painted and some can’t, so it’s important to keep that in mind. Some types of plastic decking will fade in the sun while others will retain their color, so it’s important to choose a type that can be repainted or one that resists fading in sunny areas.