Any homeowner who is considering having a deck added to their home will inevitably find themselves faced with a problem: which material to choose. Most people don’t even realize that they have a choice until they consider having a deck installed, which means even fewer are ready to choose the right material. Both materials have their pros and cons, which is why we wanted to make a quick and easy guide to explain the differences and help you decide which material is right for you.
What is a Hardwood Deck?
A hardwood deck is the more commonly known style of deck. It is a deck that has been made using true hardwood materials. These decks can be made with a wide range of different wood sources. In many cases, they are made using multiple different kinds of wood to make them less expensive. However, you can always choose what materials are right for you when you work with a professional.
What is a Composite Deck?
A composite deck is a deck that has been made using wood-plastic composite. Unlike traditional wooden decks, these decks are not made completely of wood. They are generally made using wood fibers instead. The fibers have been encased in a variation of plastic, giving them an added layer of protection that can be incredibly beneficial for some people.
How To A Choose The Right Material
Choosing the right material is really a matter of pricing, durability, and maintenance. In general, hardwood decks are cheaper than composite decks. This is because they rely only on general wood materials and are much easier to make. Composite decks require actual manufacturing, which makes them cost more than their wooden counterparts. Many people choose hardwood decks alone for this reason.
The real power of composite decking is its durability. Hardwood decks can be fairly easily damaged. Over time, they are known to splinter and break, sometimes leaving sharp and unpleasant edges. They are also particularly prone to insect damage and water damage. Composite decks, on the other hand, are incredibly resistant to moisture and insect damage. For this reason, they are favored in places with a lot of rain.
For maintenance, composite decks also have a distinct advantage. With composite decking, you really just need to focus on keeping it clean. Hardwood decks, on the other hand, require a lot of upkeep to keep them safe and protected from moisture. Hardwood decking can also end up discolored more easily than composite decking.
Conclusion
When you decide on a deck material, you will want to consider the environment that you live in. While budget alone might be the deciding factor, past that, it is a matter of environment. If you live somewhere that is prone to moisture or insects, you might experience rot and end up having to carry out repairs on the hardwood. However, as long as you don’t mind a little extra love and care for this extension of your home, you will be just fine!
