Hanging out on your backyard deck with family and friends is an unmatched experience. Many homeowners dream of adding a deck to their property and save up for years until they can begin the installation process. When it’s finally time, though, how can you decide which deck material to choose? Both wood and composite decking have their pros and cons, so the choice usually comes down to personal preference. This guide will analyze the different features and benefits of both deck materials, as well as their drawbacks.
Composite Decking Materials
Composite decking, or composite lumber, is made from a mixture of wood, plastic, fiber, and a binding agent. The combination forms a dense, heavy, and strong material, which is why it’s a popular choice for decking. There are a few different variations of composite decking material on the market.
Wood Plastic Composite
Wood-plastic composite (WPC) is a popular decking material that combines wood particle fibers with polypropylene or polyethylene plastic. During production, manufacturers use wood chips, sawdust, tree bark, and wood pulp to create a durable, eco-friendly product derived from recycled materials. One of the benefits of WPC is the wide range of color options available. WPC can also be painted and repainted, offering greater flexibility to match the color and style of your home. The boards can also be sawed, drilled, and fastened to suit your needs. One of its limitations, however, is that it may not withstand harsh weather conditions and other harsh materials.
Mineral-Based Composite
Mineral-based composite (MBC) decking is known for its superior durability and strength compared to traditional wood decking. This is because MBC replaces wood fibers with minerals, making it resistant to temperature changes, water, and insects. Unlike wood, it doesn’t warp or stretch, which increases its lifespan. Its manufacturing process involves heating and molding multiple minerals and plastics under high pressure to produce the boards. Although highly durable, MBC decking is less eco-friendly than other composite decking options containing organic materials. However, manufacturers have found ways to replicate the appearance of wood by applying texture and coloring effects.
Cellular PVC
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a faux wood material characterized by boards with a thick honeycomb cellular structure. Unlike traditional wood, PVC resists rotting, water damage, and insect and rodent infestations. PVC deck boards display a grain pattern that resembles real wood, which is added during manufacturing. It is also more environmentally friendly than petro-based chemicals like propylene, butylenes, ethylene, benzene, toluene, and xylene. This is because it’s made from recycled plastic that can be painted after installation.
Wood Decking Materials
Redwood, cedar, and pressure-treated wood are three frequently used wood species in the United States for deck construction. Pressure-treated wood, redwood, and cedar are derived from various wood types, including spruce, fir, and pine. Alternatively, exotic wood species like cumaru, ipe, teak, and mahogany can be imported at a higher cost than domestic wood.
Pressure-Treated Lumber
Pressure-treated (PT) lumber is a popular choice for decks among homeowners, and it can be found in retail stores nationwide. Deck contractors frequently use this type of lumber as it is known for its durability. One of the most significant advantages of pressure-treated lumber is its lower cost. It is much more affordable than other wood species like cedar and redwood, making it an excellent option for homeowners on a budget. During manufacturing, technicians use vacuum technology and high pressure to infuse preservatives into ordinary woods such as fir, spruce, and pine. This strengthens the wood and creates a barrier that prevents rot, decay, mold, and insect infestation.
Cedar
Cedar’s natural beauty is unmatched, with various color tones and patterns that can be sawed, sanded, and stained to achieve a stunning finish. The reddish-brown color of red cedar will age to a silvery-gray, quite similar to teak wood. Applying a penetrating stain is recommended to enhance your deck’s longevity and appearance. Since cedar is a softwood, it is more prone to scratching than hardwoods. It’s a sustainable, eco-friendly, biodegradable, and renewable building material that doesn’t produce any greenhouse gas emissions. Cedar is grown in responsibly managed forests, making it a smart choice for environmentally conscious homeowners who do not want to contribute to deforestation.
Redwood
Like cedar, redwood has no resin, allowing for excellent absorption of stain finishes. It resists warping, weathering, and insect damage without the need for preservatives. The wood has a reddish hue that gradually fades to a silvery-gray if untreated. Sanding redwood can enhance its stain absorption. To prevent splitting, pre-drilling holes may be necessary. Redwood is also highly resistant to fire, making it a popular choice for decking. With proper maintenance, redwood decking can last up to 30 years. Applying a water-repellent finish, biocide to fight mold and mildew, and a sealer with UV protection can help extend its lifespan.
Imported Wood Options
Mahogany
Mahogany is an excellent choice for outdoor decks due to its remarkable durability and resistance to harsh elements. It is known for its exceptional stability and is one of the strongest hardwoods available in the market. This exotic wood is primarily grown in South America and Mexico. Mahogany’s open grain structure allows it to maintain its shape and size even after drying. However, Mahogany can be quite pricey.
Ipe
Ipe, also known as Brazilian walnut, is a type of hardwood grown in South America that has gained a reputation as one of the most durable woods in the world. Available in a range of hues, such as dark brown, reddish brown, olive, and tan, Ipe is resistant to moisture, mildew, and termites, and its dense grains prevent splintering. Found in the tropical rainforests of South America, Ipe supports one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems, raising concerns about whether the production of Ipe contributes to deforestation.
Cumaru
Cumaru, or Brazilian teak, boasts a unique interlocking grain pattern and high density that makes it naturally resistant to decay. With its warm reddish-brown color, this hardwood lumber is an excellent choice for decking, and it can last over 30 years. Cumaru is also more affordable and accessible than ipe in the United States. However, one potential downside is that the wood contains a lot of oil, which can create issues during installation.
