Is Composite Decking Really More Expensive Than Timber?

Order samples of DuraLife composite decking to see all these benefits and more for yourself, and then get ready to build the perfect deck for your home. For example, DuraLife’s Step-Clip fastener technology can help cut installation time by up to 50%—making your dream deck a reality that much sooner.

• The primary drawback to composite decking is arguably the higher price tag.
• In view of the purchase cost of decks, wood flooring is usually cheaper than composite decking.
• Most decks require a full on retreatment consisting of sanding, cleaning, staining or painting and sealing every two to five years.
• At $30-$45 per square foot for installation, the costs can rack up fast when compared to $15-$25 for natural wood.

Wood Decks Vs Composite Decks

When looking at the composite decking versus wood cost, you will find that you actually pay more for composite decking, between the initial order and the installation costs. There is a wide range of wood species that exist, and each has its own benefits. When it comes to hardwood decking vs. composite decking, hardwood decking is an incredible, naturally durable option. Wood is almost always going to be cheaper than composite decking. Many people buy wood for their deck because they like the lower cost. But as soon as you start to look at all the maintenance wood requires, it gets much more expensive.

Now, Lets Talk About Composite Decking:

According to HomeAdvisor, a wood deck could take up to three or four weeks to build, but with composite decking technology, you could be sitting pretty that much sooner. If you’re looking for easy maintenance, you should go with composite decking. It still needs occasional scrubbing but it doesn’t require sealing and repairing. Some people enjoy taking care of their wooden decks, even though it can be quite a hassle to do so. The second decking type discussed in this article is composite decking.

A patio is often not the ideal option for uneven ground since the cost to create a foundation can double or even triple the cost of the addition. If you have uneven ground in your yard, a deck would be the cheaper option since the cost of installation is almost always never affected by the slope of the yard. A deck is a raised platform that can be made of different materials, which include pressure-treated lumber, wood, PVC, composite, and more. A deck can sit high above the ground raised by posts and accessed via a staircase or be built low to the ground raised only by joists. The most popular non-wood decking materials are composite and PVC.

Decks Vs Patios: Which Option Is Cheaper?

Most decks have pressure treated wooden frames, so the only material you have to worry about is the surface and railings. And that choice usually comes down to either traditional wood or composite decking. Ipe can cost up to four times the price of the cedar/redwood option because it is imported from South America. Among wood decking’s pros and cons, affordability is a decided benefit. Typically, wood decking is lower cost to purchase than composites, especially in the initial purchase. However, although the initial cost of wood is less, composite usually ends up paying for itself within 2-3 years when including the cost of annual maintenance.

Wood Involves A Lot Of Maintenance

While composite decking tries to mimic the look of real wood, it falls way short of replicating hardwood perfectly. So, when it comes down to it, for the most beautiful and natural looking decking, the best option is to go with real, naturally durable hardwood. Now, if you plan to do all the maintenance on your wooden deck yourself , a wooden deck may still be cheaper than composite decking material. Gaining in popularity are composite decking materials, composed primarily of a mix of recycled plastic and wood fibers.

Whats Better: Real Wood Or Composite Wood?

Despite the above given qualities, contrary to some outdated advertising, composite decks are not entirely maintenance free. In order to lower the damage, always pick cleaning detergents that are specifically made for composite materials – otherwise, the deck colour might fade. Opt for a professional that is certified to deal with hard-to-remove stains when the situation’s beyond hope.

Ultrashield natural outdoor composite deck tiles are outfitted by exotic composite finish to give it a trendy look. The tiles are easy and quick to fix which enables it to be fixed without much time wastage. The tiles are made using high quality density recycled composite plastic material. They therefore offer the perfect solution for decks and roof top patios. The deck tiles can easily snap together and allows rain to easily floor through.

The best wood decking, which is going to withstand years of use and British weather, is going to demand a fair amount of money. However, there may be a cheaper option than decking that might appeal to you. Alternatively, you could save money building a deck where you least expect it.

Strength and durability are unparalleled, and the finish is equally appealing. Due to its lightweight properties, it is also easily installed. Composite decking has gained popularity over the last few years, due to the durability and strength. Constructed of recycled plastic and wood fibers, the resistance to slips, rot, UV rays and pests is unmatched. This virtually indestructible composite is appropriate for a wide range of decking needs. The cost of composite is relatively higher, at 2 to 5 times more than a traditional wood deck.