From the last several years, both PVC decking and composite decking have gained immense popularity in the market for decking. These are considered as the prime alternative to the wood decking. They have eliminated the concept of staining; painting and cumbersome cleaning that were once considered as integral part for decks. Contrary to the wood decking, there is no need to worry about splintering and rotting. Both the PVS decking and composite decking can save your time and money in terms of maintenance, you would still need to choose one from the two. Read below to find how these two materials differ and how should you make a selection.
Ease of use
Composite decking is considered to be a better choice in regard as it is user friendly and easy to install as well the best part about this decking is that it can be bent, ripped and routed to fit any space without any difficulty. PVC boards offer less flexibility and therefore cannot be ripped down the board or even routed on the edges. For perfect installation, special tools are required for bending the boards.
Close resemblance to wood
There was a time when homeowners preferred wood decks because of its magnificent appearance. They wish to have to same look when they are scanning the market for other alternatives. Although manufacturers have made significant improvement in the look of PVC decking, they still fail to give a perfect wooden appearance like the wood-plastic composite decking boards.
If you look closely, the PVC decking would give a feeling of plastic. They have a uniform and synthetic appearance having repeated color streaking and grain patterns. There are some well renowned brands that are known for selling the best composite decking. Their products reflect the true beauty of wood with fine wood grain embossing and natural colors.
Fade resistant
PVC decking happens to be more fade resistant than composite decking. However, it is important to remember that composite decking is designed and manufactured in such a way that it weathers to a natural shade in first six months. Because of this weathering process, the decking achieves its natural wood like appearance.
Withstanding external elements
While making a selection, you need to see which of the two options can withstand the elements in a better way. Both the PVC boards and high end composite decking are known for their exceptional moisture resistance. They can be easily installed in areas that are in direct contact with water like pool surrounding, docks and regions that experience high rainfall all throughout the year. The decking would serve you for many years without any splitting, rotting and warping. Composite decking has a slight edge over the PVC decking in a way that it does not expand and contract as much as the later when temperature fluctuates. This feature really helps in maintaining a stable, long lasting deck especially in areas that experience extreme weather.
Slip resistance
Composite decking takes lead in this feature as well because the decking with wood embossed texture is believed to have good slip resistance than PVC decking. Such type of composite decking are ideal if you plan to have a nice sitting space around pool or hot tub or if you are living in a rainy region. Under such situations, your surface would be frequently wet and would pose a potential hazard for guests and your kids.
How to make your purchase decision
If you are still not sure which type of decking would be suitable for you, it is better to discuss your reservations with a professional. You can also consider the cost and quality factor while making the final decision. By investing in high end composites, you would not only get a good wood look but will also enjoy other benefits at nearly half the price.
