Wooden & Composite Decking Versus UPVC Decking

When purchasing new decking for your home you will need to choose between three different types of material for the decking – wood, composite or UPVC. It’s useful to know the pros and cons of each material before you decide whether wooden, composite or UPVC decking best suits your requirements.

Wooden Decking

Wood Decking

Wooden decking can very quickly leave your garden looking spectacular, but it can be costlier than most decking materials. It is also susceptible to rotting, warping and splintering which can leave it looking tired, so you may have to go to the trouble of replacing it after a few short years.

Pros

  • Natural appearance
  • Inexpensive to buy

Cons

  • When untreated it is prone to splitting, cracking and losing its colour
  • Ages quickly
  • High maintenance – it will need yearly varnishing, staining and treating
  • Can become very slippery when wet and moisture can lead to mould/algae forming

 

Composite Decking

Composite Decking

Composite decking consists of several materials, including an element of plastic, wood and polymer. The combination of these materials gives composite decking a similar appearance to authentic wooden decking and the moisture-resistant qualities of UPVC decking. Though it has a tendency to sag and bend more predominantly than a premium hardwood deck, this is alleviated by bringing the joists on the subframe closer together.

Pros

  • Slip-resistant material
  • Offers a wood-like appearance
  • Rot-free
  • Simple to install

Cons

  • When finished in a dark colour it can feel extremely hot underfoot
  • Susceptible to scratches
  • Can sometimes fade

 

UPVC Decking

UPVC Decking

There are several likenesses between UPVC decking and composite decking, but no organic compounds are used in the development of UPVC decking. When it comes to maintenance, UPVC decking barely needs any of it and you won’t believe how well it mimics the appearance of natural wood, something that be credited to the many authentic colours and finishes available for the product.

Pros

  • Even when it gets wet, UPVC decking promises guaranteed slip-resistance
  • Rot-free
  • Environmentally-free as it is manufactured using 95% recycled materials and is 100% recyclable
  • Zero maintenance

Cons

  • Slightly expensive than most alternative options

Don’t be put off by the price of a UPVC deck as it is only slightly more expensive than a composite deck, and in any case, Lakeland Verandahs is able to offer you a number of flexible finance options to help you pay for it. Remember too that UPVC decking has a long lifespan, so you will get full value for money from it.

If UPVC decking gets your vote, ask for a FREE quote from Lakeland Verandahs.