When designing or redesigning a deck, composite decking (aka Trex) materials continue to grow in popularity. Being a low-maintenance and sustainable alternative to wood, it's easy to love.
Composite deck boards are made of a combination of wood fibers, recycled plastic and a binding agent that is molded into boards, creating a strong and durable deck surface. If you are considering building or renovating your deck, composite products are a great way to incorporate recycled materials.
Composite Decking Vs Wood
Low Maintenance
Composite decking is very low maintenance. Unlike wood, it does not require regular staining, sealing, or painting to keep it looking good. A simple cleaning with soap and water will keep it looking fresh for years to come. We use Fiberon Decking. Here are some tips to keep your composite deck looking beautiful.
Durability
Composite decking is made from a combination of materials that makes it extremely durable. It is resistant to rot, decay and insect damage, making it an excellent choice for areas with high humidity, rain, or insect problems.
Environmentally Friendly
Composite decking is an environmentally friendly option as it is made from recycled materials. This means that fewer trees are cut down and fewer plastics end up in landfills. Additionally, composite decking is also recyclable, meaning it doesn't need to end up in a landfill later on.
Safe and Slip-Resistant
Composite decking has a textured surface that provides excellent traction, making it a safe option for homeowners with children or elderly individuals. Unlike wood, it does not become slippery when wet, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. We use Fiberon Composite Decking products, which have a micro-texture pattern in the surface embossing to increase slip resistance. Further, these products have a high slip resistance dry/wet rating of .85/.82.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Composite decking comes in a wide range of colors and styles, allowing homeowners to choose a look that complements their home's architectural style and design. Additionally, composite decking is designed to resist fading, staining and scratching, ensuring that it maintains its aesthetic appeal for years to come.
Longevity
Composite decking has a longer lifespan than wood decking. It is resistant to moisture, rot and insect damage, which means it is less likely to warp, crack, or split over time. Additionally, composite decking is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, including high winds, heavy rain and extreme temperatures.
What Are Some Cons of Composite?
Upfront Cost
Composite decking can be more expensive to install than wood decking. This is because it is made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic, which can be more expensive to manufacture than wood boards. That said, there is virtually no cost to maintain the composite deck, unlike wood which requires annual upkeep.
Heat Retention
Just like wood, composite decking can retain heat. While PVC materials are less dense and do have a tendency to stay cooler underfoot, it can still get very hot in the summer months.
Fading
Some composite decking products can fade over time, due to sunlight and exposure to chemicals, etc. We use Fiberon products whose Warranties are second to none. Check out their Stain & Fade Resistance Warranties, which range from 25-50 years.
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Deck with Composite Decking?
It does cost more per square foot than standard lumber, but it comes with a long lifespan and is extremely low maintenance in comparison.
To make things easy for you to see how much your composite deck would cost, we've built a simple Deck Cost Estimator. Simply plug in your length, width and number of stairs and the calculator will do the rest. Get a real-time quote for your beautiful new composite deck without the hassle or wait.
Try our deck cost calculator now.
Composite decking is an excellent option for Kansas City homeowners looking for a low-maintenance, durable and environmentally friendly option for their deck. It offers a range of benefits, including safety, aesthetics and longevity, making it an excellent investment for any home.
Ready to get started? We offer Fiberon Decking installation with aluminum railings. View our Composite Selections here or get started with a Free Quote.