If you're looking for an affordable upfront option with Pressure-treated lumber or committed to the look of real wood, wood might be the option for you. The new Trex Signature decking collection, however, is the first to compete against more expensive hardwoods in color and grain pattern. In particular, the more expensive hardwoods like redwood or bamboo provide a rustic, high-quality look and feel that most composite decking can't match. Adding water resistance/repairing water damageĪ key factor in many deck owners’ selections, wood has a more naturally authentic feel than many forms of composite decking.But for longer-term savings on your deck, wood simply does not reach the cost durability of composite decking. If money is no object and you’re committed to wood and the labor required to maintain it, a decent deck could last a decade or two. Maintaining a wood deck also requires a lot of physical labor over the years something that can take a toll on an aging body. This could balloon even further depending on the size of your deck and the natural threats of your local environment. Maintenance costs are the burden of wooden deck owners - annual estimated spending of $451 over 15 years, for example, would accumulate to $6,765. Maintenance costs: $451/year for pressure-treated lumber.Typical deck material costs: $1,271 - $2,880 for pressure-treated lumber.Per installation costs: $15-$30 per square foot for installation.That being said, long-term costs might balance things out. Wood is a fairly cheap material, especially compared to synthetic alternatives like composite decking. Certain softwoods need to be regularly treated with chemicals to waterproof them and repel bugs, which constitutes an additional ongoing cost depending on your material of choice. Insect and pest damage is a particularly problematic factor if your wood deck has experienced any water damage. Wood is more prone to these problems than composite because of its natural construction, leaving it prey to any of the following if not treated: Other lingering issues with wood are the environmental factors that contribute to wear and tear. Left untreated, the wood and the deck as a whole would crumble - but a well-cared-for deck could last 15 years and beyond. Wood decks typically require sanding, cleaning, staining, painting, and sealing every one to two years. From environmental factors like water and insect damage to higher material breakability, wood deck owners need to be more cautious and proactive than composite deck owners to maintain a pristine deck. Wood has some natural durability but requires far more maintenance than composite materials. Let’s see what makes wood a possible fit for your outdoor deck. The Case for Wood DeckingĪs scientifically advanced as some composite products are, wood purists can’t help but pine (no pun intended) for the classics. With minimal maintenance and cleaning required, consumers will use fewer resources and chemicals in their deck upkeep. Sustainability and Environmental ImpactĬomposite decking is the clear favorite for eco-conscious consumers - made from recycled materials, such as plastic film and reclaimed sawdust, this option guarantees a better carbon footprint for the buyer.Īlongside the material difference, composite decking is inherently more durable. This provides the benefit of a great look that lasts for years to come - but the trade-off is the inability to swap in a new color or stain in a few years if your tastes change. Wood can be stained and painted over time, whereas composite materials do not change. Though composite decking can compete with wood aesthetically, its physical makeup is decidedly different. Those seeking a pure wood deck may not find the advantages of composites to their liking. The difference between the two materials lies in authenticity, preference, and ongoing customization. In that spirit, composite decking offers greater diversity in design than wood decking, with more hues, tones, and patterns available. Great aesthetics usually come down to the quality of the material and the creativity of the construction and design.
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