Building a new deck, or updating an old one, can add enjoyment and value to your house.
It wasn’t so long ago that most decks around here were wood, but composite decking materials are growing in popularity.
As wood prices shot up during the pandemic, synthetic alternatives became more affordable. The look and quality of composite boards has also improved.
“So, the basic choice between wood and composites really comes down to the low maintenance of composites versus the natural beauty of wood. Each come with some trade-offs,” said Paul Hope, a home editor at Consumer Reports. “Wood generally will show age faster. It will tend to discolor and show staining more than composites. But it also has natural beauty that you’re never going to get from a composite material.
In CR’s tests, wood tended to be a little bit sturdier and firmer, which means that if you’re going with a composite tech, you might have to space the joists a little bit closer together. They’re just not as strong as traditional wood options, Hope said.
Maintenance on a composite deck is often optional, and fairly easy.
“If it’s installed properly, you can scrub it every year or clean it with a pressure washer as it becomes dirty. But, generally speaking, most of the maintenance is really taken care of,” Hope said.
More Info: CR Deck Buying Guide
