Wood vs. Composite Decking: Which is Best for You?

Building a deck is a great project for spring, which will be here before you know it. If you are considering this sort of undertaking for your next major home improvement project I’m sure you are weighing the decisions of whether or not to use wood vs. composite decking material. The fact of the matter is that each has both advantages and disadvantages.

Composite Decking Material

This is a relatively new concept when it comes to building materials and from all indications is a good alternative to wood on many levels. The first and probably most appealing to many homeowners is the fact that composite materials require much less maintenance than wood. These materials are weather proof and stand up well to water, which makes them an ideal choice if you are planning decking around a swimming pool or spa. Another feature about composite decking materials that makes them an attractive choice to those building decks is the fact that it will provide a uniform look for your entire deck. You do not have to worry about natural variances or even knots making an unwelcome appearance in your decking project.

For me, the greatest thing about composite decking material is that this is the environmentally friendly selection. We live in a world of limited supply and what seems to be unlimited demand. The fact is composite decking material is a very eco friendly choice. Composite materials are also an economically friendly selection as the maintenance costs are considerably lower over the lifetime of your deck. Your up front cost for materials may be a bit higher but overall you will pay less.

Wood Decking Material

Wood material when building a deck is a no brainer for me. I know that composite materials are the environmentally friendly choice and on the other hand I know that I simply prefer the look and feel of wood. There is nothing on earth that can replace the warmth and invitation of wood for outdoor living and entertaining. I know it requires extra care but for me the care is part of the beauty of wood. Wood is more durable than composite materials, especially if you choose your wood wisely. Your wood deck should last much longer than the 10 to 20 years that manufacturers of composite decking advertise.

Cedar is my wood of choice when it comes to decking material for many reasons. First of all there are natural features of this wood that make it resistant to bug infestation and damage. Second, Cedar is simply a beautiful wood of its own right. The color is lovely and simply makes me feel at home in the outdoors and the smell is something that will last beyond the initial cut. While it is a mild fragrance you will be able to enjoy the smell of cedar for a while to come. Most importantly when it comes to decking material is the fact that Cedar ages gracefully and is functional for quite a while.

Whether you choose wood for your decking material or composite decking material is entirely a matter of choice and finance for most people. There are many things about each that make them appealing to buyers. Hopefully this will help you when it comes time to make your decisions.