Whether you’re looking to build a brand new deck or want to repair your current one, Synthetic decking has many advantages over traditional decking materials. It’s durable, inexpensive, and easy to install. But, there are several important questions you should ask yourself before choosing a SYNTHETIC DECK for your home.
Composite decking
Unlike natural wood, composite decking is made from recycled materials. It’s a lightweight and durable material that offers less maintenance than wood. This type of decking can be installed on many types of surfaces.
Composite decking is made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic particles. This mixture is processed to give it a look and feel similar to real wood. Composite decking has been around for decades and has improved with new technologies.
The first composite decking boards were made from recycled wood and plastic. They were very appealing because they were eco-friendly and could last longer than natural wood. These boards were also more resistant to moisture. Eventually, however, they began to show signs of wear and tear.
The newest generation of composite decking is much more durable. It’s also resistant to UV damage. It’s also stain-resistant and mold-resistant.
Composite decking is made from recycled materials and can be installed in a variety of colors. It is also available in a variety of profiles.
PVC decking
Compared to composite decking, synthetic PVC decking offers more durability. This type of decking is more resistant to stains, mold, and moisture. Compared to natural wood, PVC will also last longer.
Synthetic PVC decking is available in a variety of colors. Some brands offer realistic wood grain patterns. Many also offer multi-tonal streaking. These variations help the look of the deck.
PVC decking is durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic. It also resists rot and fading. Compared to natural wood, it is lighter. This makes it easier to install. Also, its lighter weight helps it last longer.
PVC is completely recyclable. It also has a 50-year warranty against fading and staining. Because it is 100% plastic, it is also resistant to moisture. It has no organic content and is a good choice for outdoor spaces.
Unlike wood, composite decking does not require staining or sanding. It is also easy to clean. You can hose it down, or use a soft bristle brush to remove dirt and debris. However, it is important to note that you should not use abrasive cleaning pads.
Durability
Despite the growing popularity of composite materials, wood is still the most common decking material. It is durable, fade-resistant, and has a long lifespan.
While wood is durable, composite materials promise more durability and less maintenance. However, these decking options require more care and may lack the natural look of wood.
Composite materials also promise to be rot-proof, stain-resistant, and insect-resistant. They are also durable, as they can last up to 50 years. However, composite decking is also more expensive. The cost ranges from $5 to $13 per square foot.
In addition to being durable, composite decking is also eco-friendly. It is made from recycled plastic and wood fibers.
Composite decking is also resistant to rot and insect damage. It also requires less maintenance and cleaning. However, it may be more expensive than wood.
Composite decking is also available in a wide range of colors, including wood-like colors and hues. However, darker shades can be very hot in the sun.
Cost
Depending on the material you choose, the cost of a synthetic deck can vary. Most people spend around $12,600 for a 320-square-foot composite deck. But the price can go as high as $25,500.
When you compare the cost of a synthetic deck with a wooden deck, the price will almost always be higher. Wooden decks require regular cleaning and staining. Then, every few years, you need to apply solid color deck paint, which hides the wood grain. In addition, you may have to pay for disposal fees and hauling distance.
The cost of a synthetic deck can also vary by location. For example, you may pay more for a deck in a climate that is more harsh than yours. You also might have to pay more to install a deck in a sloped yard.
You should also look into the resale value of your deck. According to the National Association of Realtors, composite decks have a better return on investment than wood decks. They have also been shown to add $14,169 to a property’s value.