Open Accessibility Menu
Hide

The Benefits of Composite Vs. Wood Decking

Deciding between a wood deck and a composite deck can be difficult. Both materials have advantages and disadvantages. As a result, it is wise to weigh the options thoroughly before making a confident decision. Archadeck of Toronto East is familiar with wood and composite decking. We excel in building both materials and are excited to help you explore the advantages and disadvantages of traditional wood and composite decking today.

Why Classic Wood Decks Remain a Safe, Popular Choice

Wood Decks Are Affordable

One of the primary reasons many homeowners choose wood decks is their affordability. Wood decks are an excellent choice if you're looking for an economical option that won't break the bank. While composite decks offer many upgrades and benefits, such as low maintenance costs, they are usually more expensive upfront than wood decks.

Wood Decks Offer Aesthetic Appeal

Wood decks have a natural look and feel that is hard to replicate with composite materials. If you're looking for an earthy and organic aesthetic for your outdoor living space, a wood deck is your best bet. Given the wide variety of woods on the market, you can easily find an elegant grain and texture that fits your style perfectly.

Wood Decks Are Heat Resistant

Wood decking doesn’t absorb heat during warm weather as composites deck tend to. With a wooden deck, you won't need to worry about heat retention – even in direct sunlight! This resistance makes wood ideal for hot climates where temperatures rise during the day. Meanwhile, composite decks can become uncomfortably hot under direct sunlight (due to their density). Nevertheless, modern composite decks are notably lighter, less dense, and more heat resistant.

Why Composite Decks Outshine Wood Decks

Let’s now explore the benefits of owning a composite deck instead of a traditional wood deck:

Composite Decks Offer Long-Lasting Durability

One of the main benefits of composite decks is their superior durability compared to traditional wood decks. Composite decks consist of a combination of recycled plastic and wood fibers. This mixture makes them more resistant to weather, insects, and rot than traditional wood. While wood decks require sanding, staining, and sealing to endure multiple seasons, composite decks are naturally durable. This durability means you can save time and money and won’t need to worry about replacing rotting boards or re-staining them every few years.

Composite Decks Require Minimal Maintenance

Composite decking requires minimal maintenance compared to standard wood decks. Wood decks require regular refinishing to remain aesthetically appealing and protected from the elements. Unfortunately, wood is susceptible to warping, splintering, cracking, and rotting due to weather, pests, and moisture. Without constant upkeep, a wood deck will deteriorate quickly.

Composite decks, on the other hand, only require occasional cleaning with soap and water to look their best. This low upkeep will save you from spending money on expensive sealants and paints year after year. Whereas wood decking requires labor and costly supplies for recurring maintenance, composite decks merely require sweeping and washing.

Composite Decks Come with Numerous Color Choices

Another advantage of composite decking over standard wooden decking is the variety of color choices available. Composite decks come in countless colors, ensuring you’ll find a tone/shade/hue that suits your aesthetic style and taste perfectly. In fact, most composite manufacturers offer dozens of different colors. This vast range means you can customize your deck and won’t have to worry about staining or painting it again later.

Composite Decks Are Environmentally Friendly

In addition to low maintenance, composite decks are typically environmentally friendly – composed of recycled materials. This eco-friendly quality allows homeowners to bypass the use of natural resources and trees needed for wood decking, reducing the guilt associated with contributing to deforestation and our collective carbon footprint. Since composite decking doesn’t require frequent refinishing like traditional wood decking, they emit fewer hazardous chemicals into the environment. Avoiding toxic emissions is always a win.

Composite Decks Are Free of Splinters

Finally, one of the primary advantages of having a composite deck is the absence of splinters! Wooden boards tend to become warped over time, which increases the likelihood of splinters – especially if you or your loved ones enjoy walking barefoot. Splinters aren't just uncomfortable - they can also get infected if left untreated. Fortunately, splinters are not an issue with composite boards since they remain stable and intact even after years of wear and tear.

Composite Decks Provide Incredible ROI

Although there are higher upfront costs associated with purchasing a composite deck, the investment will pay itself off over time due to its low-maintenance needs. While standard wooden boards need regular refinishing to remain safe and visually appealing, composite decking can be enjoyed nearly maintenance-free. As a result, composite decks usually return on their investment within 2-3 years on the money saved from skipping annual maintenance.

The Upsides of Hiring a Professional to Install Your Decking

It is common to feel overwhelmed and indecisive when planning for a new outdoor deck. Hopefully, this blog has outlined the distinct advantages of the two primary decking materials on the market. At Archadeck of Toronto East, we’re ready to build any decking option. If you are considering upgrading your outdoor space with a brand-new deck, call our specialists without delay! We’ll ensure you consider all your options carefully and make an informed decision when selecting a decking material for your project! That said, the final decision is always yours. Whatever you settle, you can rest assured knowing our team has the tools and techniques to install wood and composite decks meticulously and professionally.

Are you looking for deck-building experts in Toronto East? Call (647) 952-2361 today!

Categories