Composite Wood Products Versus Real Wood for Your Deck
How much maintenance are you prepared to do?
Wood requires a yearly application of stain and sealer to keep it looking nice. Composite products are made of a blend of plastics, glue and wood fibers so they only need to be cleaned regularly.
How long does the product last?
How long does the product last? Wood will rot quickly if it is not protected from the elements. It also has a tendency to crack and splinter. However, if it is properly sealed and maintained, it will last for many years. If a wood deck becomes scratched, stained or faded, it can be stripped and refinished to restore its beauty.
There is some controversy about how long composite decking lasts. Composite decking will not crack or splinter, but some people have reported that it fades quickly and can warp. Composite decks also scratch easily and they do stain. The only way to repair a damaged composite deck is to replace the affected pieces. Composite wood does not last forever, as some advertisements would lead you to believe. Some manufacturers have had class action suites filed against them due to their product failing sooner than it should.
How resistance is the product to rot and pests?
Wood rots over time and makes a perfect meal for termites and other wood boring insects. Using treated wood can help minimize this risk, but wood always succumbs to nature eventually. Composite decking is not destroyed by insects, but the wood fibers can rot. Some manufacturers include chemicals to inhibit rot, but not all do. The wood fibers in composite products can also soak up water and hold it within the board, creating a perfect environment for mold to grow.
What kind of appearance do you prefer?
Wood is naturally beautiful with its subtle variations of grain and coloring. Wood can be stained a variety of colors, and as the color fades, new stain can be applied to restore its appearance. Composite wood is designed to mimic the appearance of real wood and is available in a wide variety of colors. Some of the higher end products look very similar to wood, but a composite board will always have a more uniform, plastic look. Once the color fades on a composite board, it cannot be restored.
How much does the product cost?
Composite wood is much more expensive than natural wood.
Do your research.
Both natural wood and composite wood have benefits and disadvantages. Natural wood has been used for centuries, and it’s good and bad properties are very well known. Composite wood is a new product, and its long term performance is largely untested. Some people have experienced problems with it, while others have found it to be a wonderful investment. Before you choose to use composite wood, make sure you do your homework. Research the manufacturer to see if they have had any legal problems with their product. Find out how much wood fiber they add to their product; less than 50% is best. Ask your contractor for names of people who have had composite decking installed, and go see for yourself how the material holds up. Make sure that you see decks that are made of the same brand that you are considering. By taking the time to research, you will be able to choose a decking material that will last for many, many years.
