Differences Between Pvc & Composite Decking

That includes unclogging gaps in boards, and cleaning up spills to prevent staining. Soft bristle brushing and soapy water may be necessary for stubborn dirt build-up or if mold is allowed to grow. Maintenance is very similar between the two product types.

However, composites are generally constructed from a mixture of plastic and wood fibers, which are mixed together using heat and pressure in a co-extrusion process. As a result, some composites that use this method to create a finished product are not able to be recycled unless they can be easily returned to the manufacturer. However, most composites are made from recycled materials, lowering their impact on the environment. The lifespan of decking will depend on the quality of the material, and the basic manufacturing process employed. Generally, the average lifespan will usually fall in line with any associated warranties, but it’s important to note what the warranty covers. If you’re looking at products with an excellent extended warranty, you’ll find most composite decking is around years. PVC decking is made from polyvinyl chloride , which is a high-strength plastic.

Decking

Both PVCand composite decking require less maintenance than wood. PVC and composites alike should be intermittently swept or hosed off to remove dirt and debris.

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Plastic Decking Materials

Come on back to the Building Supply Counter and we’ll get you started. While wood looks more natural, it requires more maintenance to protect it from the elements. Keeping a wood deck in great shape requires cleaning, staining and sealing the wood.

• Now, fast forward 16 years, there are now dozens of composite decking companies and so many choices it boggles the mind.
• There are as many answers as questions, and everyone has their favorites, or opinions on what makes their composite the best.
• If you’re looking for a green alternative that still looks like wood, this is a great choice.
• Some do not use any new materials, making them highly sustainable.
• Most PVC and composite decking products use recycled plastic.

The cheapest composite decking material costs around $4 to $5 per square foot. Many brands, including Trex and Fiberon, sell products in this price range.

Synthetic Or Composite Decking Materials

A good comparison of what can happen to a wood composite deck is to look at what an ignored leaf can do to a concrete driveway if it is not removed promptly. This is the same thing that can happen to a composite deck if it is not kept clean. Since we are dealing with products that are exposed to the outside elements on a daily basis, composite needs to be checked for any debris or dirt on a regular basis too. A key factor to consider for vinyl vs. composite decking is theway the materials look. As they contain wood fiber, composites more closely resemble wood, which many homeowners like, while a vinyl decking problem is looking too much like plastic, in some cases. This is much different from the ordinary hollow PVC materials we are used to seeing.

Cellular Pvc

Cellular decking materials are gaining popularity and now even many of the composite manufactures also produce a cellular board. Cellular’s tend to be lighter and easier to handle, strong and tidy and less likely to scratch or stain.