You’re probably considering transforming your outdoor deck or constructing a new deck, and you’re ready to work with a licensed decking contractor or considering a DIY outdoor living project. However, before embarking on such a critical project, it’s important to have a brief background in composite decking and its various options.

Since its introduction to the market, composite decking has increasingly become widespread in the past few years. Its popularity is attributed to its numerous advantages, including simplicity, minimal maintenance, cost-effectiveness and superior durability, among several others.

Traditional lumber remains the common choice for deck material. Viable traditional wood alternatives include composite materials such as plastic, bamboo, aluminum, vinyl, rubber and PVC decking. However, natural wood or real wood is preferred as a favorite deck material since it leaves your outdoor living space with a beautiful natural look.

There are multiple factors to consider for a composite decking project. This article serves as a guide on the benefits, disadvantages, types and the best composite decking materials to use.

Composite decking sample made by PWHI

What Is Composite Decking?

The term “composite” refers to something made of several elements or parts. Therefore, a composite deck is anything made of two or more materials, usually wood and plastic, blended or fused to form the structure of composite deck boards.

However, composite decking is mostly associated with two types of decking materials: capped-polymer decking and capped wood plastic decking. The latter uses a blend of wood fibers, usually wood flour and sawdust, and plastic resins exposed to heat and pressure to create a deck board. Capped-polymer decking combines resins and other performance additives without organic materials in the core of the composite deck boards.

Wood-plastic composite decking typically is heavier and can be challenging to work with but come at a lower cost. However, unlike wood-plastic composites, capped polymers are lighter, easy to install and impervious to moisture.

composite deck boards with furniture

Why Work With Prince William Home Improvement?

We offer high-performance Trex decking boards engineered to resist scratches, stains, fading and weathering. Trex is one of the most trusted composite decking brands today, you’re guaranteed a durable composite decking finish that will last for decades.

Quality and affordability are central requirements for our service delivery. We offer the best quality composite decking products within your budgetary requirements. Our composite decks are produced by state-of-the-art technology to ensure they efficiently fulfill their purpose.

We focus on aesthetics more than any other brand, so our composite wood products come in different colors for your decking choice. We also provide quality composite decking to prevent staining, rotting and damages from exposure to stressors — for example, harmful UV rays.

Don’t be left behind by the trend of improving your home using modern and more appealing composite decking solutions. Contact us today for a free estimate and let us transform your home beyond your imagination.

traditional wood decking by PWHI

Benefits of Composite Decking

Composite decking is becoming popular for a reason. Here are some of its benefits:

Composite decks are made from 100% recycled materials, thereby having zero adverse impact on the environment. This means no trees or other elements of the environment are harmed. In fact, by using recycled plastic, wood and other scrap materials, composite decking positively impacts the environment.

Although the cost of wood per square foot may be less than composite materials, it costs significantly less to maintain composite decks in terms of sealing and cleaning every few years. The amount of work to maintain wood is costly over time and the price gap is wide compared to composite materials.

Composite decking is also becoming popular among homeowners because of its durability. Composite materials last longer than wood decking and plastic decking. Most homeowners want strong flooring materials that will last for years. A deck made from composite is high performance and lasts no matter how much weight is placed on it or the amount of exposure to UV rays and precipitation.

Composite decking allows homeowners to capture the beauty of the real world. While color choices for a wood decking involve staining in a decent number of finishes or painting, it will require fresh coats and touch-ups over time. Decks made from composites come in a wide range of colors and finishes. Some composite decking is designed to mimic natural redwood, cedar or other colors, something wood decks may not achieve.

Moreover, the best composite decking gives you the ability to play around with various designs, including a combination of colors. If you’re planning a deck, whether for your private property, business, patio garden or camping deck, composite decking is the only choice that suits a range of styles. It has smooth surfaces that create a modern feel.

Composite decking has a longer life span. In addition to being durable and eco-friendly, composite materials are pressure-treated during creation, which benefits homeowners by ensuring the composite deck boards and railings are resistant to a wide array of elements. They don’t rot, develop mold or stain. A deck made from both wood and plastic will serve you for many years to come.

Other benefits of composite wood include adding value, no splinters and improved technology. Composite decking adds long-term value to your home. The smooth surface of composite decks offers property owners modern and more luxurious finishes, with colors, designs and grain patterns that add value to your home.

You also don’t get splinters from walking across a composite deck, protecting you, your children and your pets. Composite decks are also being chosen over traditional decks because of improved technology that increases their quality.

types of composite decks

Types of Composite Decks

Composites decks come in a variety of types, sizes and designs. The type of composite decking you should choose depends on the cost, availability, quality and purpose. Common examples of composite decks include:

  • HD Deck Dual: Pressure-treated pine comes in two color options, giving you the freedom to play with creativity in your deck design. It has a capped outer layer to protect against weather and fading.
  • HD Deck XS: It gives you a clean, professional finish without needing screws. This composite decking board includes a hollow construction to absorb heat for better temperature control and reduced weight.
  • HD XS Fire: Ideal for the construction industry. It can be installed for balconies, roof terraces, verandas, gardens and landscaping applications with less maintenance.

Get Quality Composite Decking Solutions From Prince William

If you wish to create an outdoor space characterized by quality, durability, sustainability, beauty and affordability, Prince William Home Improvement is the company you’re looking for. We’re an independent home improvement contractor specializing and highly experienced in composite decking solutions. Contact us and get a free quote for composite decking solutions for your private property, garden or business.