There are a lot of different considerations that go into any outdoor living addition. In the case of deck additions, we like to think these spaces are some of the most versatile that you can add to a property, but what materials are right for your new deck? The marketplace is full of different material options thanks to modern advancements in building technology, and we are pleased to offer many of them! Wood and composite decking are the two most popular decking materials thanks to their beauty and durability, but each offers their own unique aesthetics and benefits. As an Akron deck builder, we’ve worked with these materials for many years, so let’s dig into the benefits of each to help you make your choice!
Wood or Composite? Advice from Your Akron Deck Builder
While wood has been the go-to for decks in past decades, composite decking has come a long way to compete with this traditional material directly thanks to its stunning aesthetics and incredible durability. However, there are still a lot of things to consider when deciding between the two. Let’s start with wood. If you like a rustic aesthetic enhanced by the texture and smell of real wood, it’s hard to find anything better, but there is more maintenance involved with this material. As a natural material, wood is more susceptible to environmental degradation, weathering, and rot, so we advise using a light stain every two to three years on your deck to prolong its lifespan and help shield it from the elements. Avoid thick coating like deck restore products. We see these commonly used on decks before a house is sold and they look good. The issue comes a few years later. The coating will crack and allow moisture in while making it really hard for the board to dry out. This leads to rotting quickly.
Composite decking is remarkably durable, and that’s because it isn’t vulnerable to bugs, rot, and other shortcomings familiar to wood. This material is also exceedingly easy to maintain; just use water and some dawn dish soap with a mop or scrubber to help lift stains or marks left by debris, leaves, or any other natural debris. A pressure washer makes quick work of composite deck cleaning.
How Long Do These Materials Last? Your Deck Contractor Weighs In
From a durability standpoint, composite decking is far superior as it can last 30+ years, providing low-maintenance outdoor comfort throughout its lifetime. Azek decking comes with a 50 year stain and fade warranty. On the other hand, wood decking typically lasts around 15 to 30 years in our area depending on your maintenance efforts, so there is a difference in the two material options regarding durability. However, composite decking is more expensive than wood, making it a large investment. So, the next thing you must consider is how long you expect to live in your home. If you intend to live in your home for longer than 5 years, we would recommend composite, so while it is a larger upfront investment, there is a greater return in the long run. For those who don’t expect to live in their home for more than five years, wood might be the best option as it is more cost-effective and you can sell your home with the expectation that your deck could provide a better return on investment.
The last important factor in the composite vs. wood decision is the sun and heat. Wood decks tend to be cooler. The stain color you pick will play a large factor in this. If heat is a concern and you prefer the lower maintenance of composite picking a light color will help. Azek decking being less dense and having a pvc core instead of composite material will dissipate heat faster when the sun goes down or sinks behind the clouds.
Your ideal outdoor lifestyle isn’t just a dream; with your Akron deck contractor, it is well within reach. With a custom design and consultation process, an unmatched material selection, a better building process, and a team of building experts committed to your satisfaction, we’re here to deliver a stunning finished product for you and your family to savor for many years to come.
Wood and composite decking are both stunning, but which is right for you? Archadeck, your Akron deck builder has the answers. Call Patrick Sluss, our local Archadeck franchisee and master design consultant, for a no-obligation, complimentary design consultation.
You can connect with Patrick and his team of deck experts by calling (330) 537-6412, or by clicking this link right here.
