Building a deck? Are you unsure whether to choose wood or composite decking?

It's a tough choice that many homeowners face, but assessing your individual decking needs can help you make an informed decision.

Read on for a comprehensive comparison of wood vs composite decking, including information about both form and function.

Wood or Composite Decking Materials: The Basics

Wood decking is a classic that never goes out of style. It's quaint and charming because of its traditional appearance. Those who choose a wood deck can enjoy:

• Naturally-textured grain
• Visually complex wood knots
• One-of-a-kind natural features

Wood decks are typically stained and sealed for durability and longevity.

Composite decking utilizes wood in its composition, but combines it with recycled plastics. The plastics are tightly bound and extremely durable. When mixed with real wood fibers, homeowners can reap the benefits of both traditional wood and durable modern plastics.

To make a composite material, manufacturers:

• Mix sawdust/wood chips/wood fiber bits with plastic
• Use bonding agents to strengthen the mixture
• Add tint and other additives for a unique color
• Heat the mixture until it becomes a solid material
• Cut the solid composite into deck boards

Aesthetics

Most people who choose wood decking do so for a natural vibe. Some homeowners may prefer wood decking for its rustic look, which features a variety of textures and characteristic knots. This uneven look is only possible with 100% natural lumber.

Standard wood options for decking include:

• Cedar
• Redwood
• Pine
• Teak
• Ipe

Matching natural wood decking with a beautiful wood fence is a great way to boost curb appeal!

On the other hand, composite has a more uniform aesthetic. The wood fibers and plastic are mixed, so the grains are not as natural-looking as they could be. However, composite is also beautiful and can be made to look like smooth, treated wood.

Homeowners can choose to paint both wood and composite decking in their preferred colors. This ensures that you can match the work of a fence company after they design and install aesthetically pleasing fencing solutions.

Both wood and composite decks are completely customizable when homeowners work with a reputable deck company. Those adding decks to their outdoor living space can ask for:

• Pergolas
• Unique lighting features
• Integrated outdoor kitchens
• Built-in seating areas
• Integrated hot tubs

This, in addition to the ability to create a unique and personalized deck shape, enables deck and fence contractors to tailor decking designs to each client.

Durability

Since durability means a longer deck lifespan, it is one of the most important concerns when choosing between wood and composite decking.

Many people have the misconception that wood decking isn't durable. This is true in some ways.

Wood is more prone to moisture damage than plastic or other materials. This is because it is porous, allowing water to seep into the pores and grains. Water damage can cause rotting and warping.

This, combined with the potential for damage from Richmond's wood-boring pests, makes some homeowners reluctant to invest in wood decking.

However, durability-related problems can be easily rectified by treating the wood before deck installation. Professional deck builders:

• Stain the wood for a consistent color
• Apply UV-resistant protective coatings
• Add a protective top layer to seal off the pores on the deck

These layers prevent moisture and pests from entering the wood. A treated wood deck can last for fifty years when well-maintained, so don't be scared to construct a natural-look outdoor relaxation space.

Composite is more intrinsically durable than wood. It can also last up to fifty years when properly maintained.

The plastic resins in composite decking give it the ability to withstand strong weather conditions naturally. It is less susceptible to moisture damage than a classic wood deck. It's also less likely to splinter because of the even, perfectly bonded synthetic material.

Maintenance

Wood decking requires re-sealing every couple of years. Homeowners who want the job done correctly will need to hire the best Richmond deck contractors to ensure this task is completed correctly.

Homeowners may also need to:

• Restain the wood to give it an even look
• Repaint areas that are chipping and peeling
• Sand down sharp, splintering parts of the wood

Without these treatments, wood isn't made to last.

Composite decking stands out because it requires none of these maintenance tasks!

The durable properties of the composite are intrinsically part of its makeup. There's no need to seal the material for longevity or stain the decking for an even, appealing look.

To maintain a composite deck, homeowners will only need to:

• Sweep the floor
• Clean up any messes immediately
• Brush stains away with a soft-bristled brush

Keeping composite decking in good shape is quick and simple, making it ideal for homeowners who want a space to unwind without any maintenance-related headaches.

Costs to Consider

According to HomeAdvisor, the cost of wood decking depends on the type of materials used. You can expect to see prices like:

• Pressure-treated wood - $2-$8 /ft²
• Cedar - $4-$8 /ft²
• Ipe - $10-$15 /ft²

The same source cites composite decking as costing $8-$18 per square foot.

Upfront costs for composite are significantly higher than most wood options. This makes sense since the plastic material and labor costs contribute to the price increase.

However, wood may cost more in the long term. The costs of stains and sealants over the years are likely to add up. Professional maintenance will also be required more frequently than for composite decking, so it's essential to consider future labor costs as well.

Invest in High-Quality Richmond Deck Installation

Understanding the differences between wood and composite decking is the first step toward making an informed decision about building a deck. Now that you are familiar with some fundamental similarities and differences, it's time to discuss your outdoor renovations with a professional deck builder, such as Chesterfield Fencing & More.

Chesterfield Fencing & More has been operating in Richmond, Virginia since 2017. The team is committed to communicating about your specific decking requirements and helping you construct the perfect addition to your outdoor space.

Contact our experienced deck builders to schedule a free estimate instantly!