The pros and cons of wood vs. synthetic decking materials
It’s finally spring in Upstate New York. People are spending more time outside – with backyard BBQs, pool parties and cooking up dinner on the grill. If you’re considering adding a deck to your home to enhance your summer fun, it’s time to line up a contractor now, and make some decisions about design, budget and materials. When it comes to wood vs. synthetic decking materials, there is a variety of choices for every budget and desired maintenance level, and your contractor can help you make the best choice.
Take a look at the pros and cons of the four most popular decking materials: wood, pressure-treated wood, composite and PVC.
Wood
Pros:
- Wood is the créme de la créme because of its natural strength and high resale value
- It can be stained or painted to any color you prefer
- It resists the elements with the proper treatment/sealants
- There are three wood groups to choose from: cedars, redwoods and tropical hardwoods
Cons:
- Wood requires a lot of maintenance, including sanding, staining and sealing
- If you don’t maintain your wood, it is susceptible to splitting and cracking
- Hardwood options can be more expensive than other options
Pressure-treated wood
Pros:
- It is 100% natural wood, but treated to better resist the elements
- It can be stained or painted for custom looks
- It’s lightweight, and therefore easy to install
- It holds up better than plastic decking materials
- It is more affordable than regular wood decking
Cons:
- It has a slight green-tinge to it
- The treatment is achieved with chemical preservatives
- It can warp easily
Composite
Pros:
- It is a mix of plastics and wood fibers, so it gives you a more natural look than plastic/PVC decking
- It withstands the elements better than traditional wood decking
- It is resistant to splinters, cracks, mold and splitting
- It is more affordable than traditional wood decking
Cons:
- While it withstands the elements, it is not resistant to mold or mildew
- It doesn’t look as natural as wood
- Over time, it can warp more than wood
Plastic/PVC
Pros:
- It requires the least amount of maintenance out of all decking materials
- It is installed with a tongue-and-groove system that keeps planks in place
- It is strong, yet lightweight
- It is resistant to the elements, moisture, bugs and rotting
- It comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns for easy customization
- It is made from recycled material, which is good for the environment
Cons:
- Since it is plastic, it doesn’t look like natural wood
- Over time, the sun can cause it to crack or fade
- Repairs to a damaged section often call for a replacement of the entire deck
Not sure which one to pick? We can help.
At Bennett Contracting, we have 100 years of experience in home improvement projects. Contact us today and we’ll help you choose the right decking materials for your lifestyle, environment and wallet.