The Differences Between Wood, PVC and Composite
There are many choices to make when designing a deck. Firstly, you must pick the material in which you want your deck to be built. Many people ask what the differences are between Wood, PVC and Composite. In fact, often the word “Composite” is used to refer to all non-wood products used in decking. PVC decking is made completely of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Composite is a combination of compressed wood and PVC.
Wood Decking
Wood is normally the cheapest option and often is installed by any general contractor or builder. Wood is very versatile, giving you unlimited options of structures you could build on your deck (e.g. planters, benches, pergolas, etc.). Wood, however, is very high maintenance. It normally requires regular scrubbing to remove algae and moss that wood is prone to, especially where there are over-hanging trees or bushes. It is usually necessary to paint, stain or varnish wood decking annually. Wood is also susceptible to become slippery when wet and worse when algae builds up (it may even turn slightly green), so you need to be careful with wood decks in the fall and winter.
PVC Decking
PVC is a great mid-range price option, being slightly more expensive than wood, but somewhat cheaper than Composite. Our Dekboard PVC product is 100% recyclable and is made with an element of recycled materials. PVC comes in a variety of colours that require no annual staining, painting or varnishing and does not fade in the sun. Not only does that make PVC lower maintenance, but it also makes it more environmentally friendly with no toxic paints or varnishes to deal with. PVC decking will not warp or twist as it does not contain any wood polymers so cannot absorb moisture. PVC can be used for most ground and 1st storey levels. This includes garden decks, caravan verandas, balconies, access ramps, outdoor commercial areas, jetties and pool/hot tub surrounds. PVC can be used for some simple deck add-on items such as planters, but it is more difficult and may require finishing with other products. It can be power-washed, but normally only requires cleaning with the hose or soapy water. Our PVC decking products come with a 10-year warranty.
Composite Decking
Composite is pricier than wood or PVC but is a popular choice due to its style and durability. Our Ecodek product is made from approximately 60% sustainably-sourced wood flour and 35% recycled HDPE polymer (recycled plastic milk bottles). It comes with a 25-year guarantee and is available in a wide variety of colours, textures and finishes, allowing you to design a bespoke deck that is suited to your taste. You can even use multiple colours and design patterns to finish your deck with a decorative border or to highlight different areas of your deck. It doesn’t fade, warp, splinter or split. It is easy to maintain, requiring no regular staining or treatment, just an occasional wash down to keep it looking like new. Some of our range of Composite product also can be power-washed, but be careful, not all products can. It is just as versatile as wood for making add-on components and structures such as flower beds and benches.
