Comparing Wood Deck Options
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Invented in the late 1980s, wood-plastic composite decking (also called “composite wood deckingâ€) is made of wood fibers encased in plastic. Composite decking is readily available at big box home improvement stores like The Home Depot and Lowe’s, as well as local lumberyards throughout the U.S. As idyllic as your backyard deck could be, maintaining that elevated expanse of lumber can be a downright chore.
Composite Decking & Railing Market Complete Survey 2020-2026 Insights, Demand, Analysis, Manufacturers, Type continue reading this And Canberra Composite Timber Decking Application
Composite Decking Materials & Deck Boards
Typically, wood decking is lower cost to purchase than composites, especially in the initial purchase. However, although the initial cost of wood is less, composite usually ends up paying for itself within 2-3 years when including the cost of annual maintenance. The price differential also depends on the wood species chosen versus the brand of composite decking, and local market conditions. Compared to natural wood decks that may last only 15 years if given diligent maintenance, composite decks may last for more than 25 to 30 years. Due to their mixture of synthetic and organic fibers wrapped in a protective synthetic shell, composite deck boards are resistant to mold, warping, and staining. Based on these averages, if you do the math, it can cost between $13,500 and $22,000 for composite decking versus $8,000 to $11,200 for a wood deck.
Decking & Railing Duos
To prevent this from happening, lumber decking must be sealed with paint or stain every few years – and that costs money. For one, the price of materials, but also the time and labor required for the homeowner to do the job themselves or find a contractor to do the job for them.
Composite Wood Decking In Columbus, Ohio
Names such as pebble and slate and mahogany are choices, as well as colors that look like natural wood such as teak or walnut. You can also choose composite decking by texture and wood grain pattern. The cost to build a 144-square-foot composite deck averages about$5,200. The prices can range from$3,600 to $7,700between$25 and $54 per square foot. By comparison, a 144-square-foot wood deck ranges from$5,000 to $7,200, or$35 to $50 per square foot.
The following elements need to be considered when thinking about installation composite decking. According to your skill level, you may choose to install your composite decking yourself. While you may pay a bit more, the peace of mind you get from knowing your deck is properly installed is worth every penny. For help in understanding what’s involved in the installation of your composite deck consult with one of our project support professionals. Because you cannot sand composite decking, deep scratches are destined to remain in the boards, though over time, they may becomes less and less pronounced. Plastic is largely responsible for many of the positive features that define composite decking, but the material also includes stain-absorbent wood. If you accidentally get grease or another offending substance on a composite board, you cannot simply sand out the stain.
- If you’re in the market for a new or replacement deck, you may be wondering if composite is worth the investment.
- If you love the look of wood and don’t mind some annual work, get cedar.
- Some types of composite decking also weigh more than wood, so additional support may be required.
- Composite does carry a bigger price tag than traditional treated wood or cedar deck materials.
- If keeping costs down is your primary goal, pressure-treated lumber is for you.
On average, composite deck boards cost between $3.19 and $5.80 per linear foot for material costs only and does not include installation or any fastenings. , Each board is also 5.3/8†wide (5.375â€), so including 10% for wastage, you’ll need to buy decking boards for 317 SF. Most PVC and composite decking products use recycled plastic.
Does a composite deck add value to a home?
Since composite decks require less maintenance and have longer lifespan than the other type of decks, it's more valuable compared to the others. Building a composite deck costs up to $15,900 and a recoup of $10,800. It means that the added value is up to 68%. Thus, many homeowners build composite decks to their homes.
Most importantly, it lasts the longest without needing replacement. Pressure-treated pine sells for about half the price, while premium woods like cedar and redwood cost slightly less than composite. The other best wood for outdoor deck building isn’t wood at all, but rather a manufactured combination of wood and recycled plastic.
Quick Summary: Composite Vs Wood Deck Cost
Do composite decks get hot?
How Hot Can Composite Decking Get in the Sun? One study found that in direct sunlight, composite decks can reach temperatures from 34° to 76° F hotter than the surrounding air. On an 80° day, that could mean a deck surface temperature of more than 150°.
Some people prefer the look of real wood and are willing to put in the time and money needed to maintain it. Others are happy with the faux-natural look of composite decking and simply don’t have the time to keep a real wood structure. Composite decking is also eco-friendly, being made from all recycled materials. On average, it costs between $9,320 and $11,005 for a PVC deck including installation that has 10 railing posts with a railing and deck footings.