Guide to choosing between natural wood decking and composite wood decking: How to choose the best option for your project

When you are considering building a deck, one of the first decisions you will need to make is what material to use. The two popular options are natural wood decking and composite wood decking. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two will depend on several factors. In this guide, we will examine the characteristics of each type of deck and provide tips to help you make the best decision for your project.

Characteristics of Natural Wood Decking

Natural wood decking offers a warm and traditional aesthetic that integrates well into outdoor environments. Here are some of their main characteristics:

Advantages

1. Natural appearance: Natural wood offers organic beauty and authentic texture that can be difficult to reproduce with other materials.

2. Design flexibility: Wood can be cut and shaped according to your needs, allowing for a wide variety of designs and styles.

3. Relatively easy maintenance: Although wood requires some maintenance, such as annual treatment and regular cleaning, it can be easily repaired in case of minor damage.

Disadvantages

1. Maintenance required: Unlike composite decking, natural wood requires regular maintenance to prevent rot, discoloration, and cracking. The use of generally chemical maintenance products, such as wood stains/preservatives, has a significant environmental impact.

2. Weather sensitivity: Wood is subject to rotting, discoloration, and warping when exposed to weather, which can reduce its durability.

3. Wood-boring insects can cause damage to wood by feeding on its structure, which also diminishes its durability and longevity.

Characteristics of Composite Decking

Composite decking is manufactured from a mixture of wood fibers and plastic, thus offering a durable and low-maintenance alternative to natural wood. Here's what you need to know about them:

Advantages

1. Low maintenance: Composite decking requires little maintenance, generally a simple annual cleaning with soapy water is sufficient to keep them in good condition.

2. Durability: Unlike wood, composite decking is resistant to rot, insects, and discoloration, making them ideal for outdoor environments.

3. Longevity: Composite decking tends to have a longer lifespan than natural wood, as they are less subject to degradation due to weather and wear.

Disadvantages

1. Higher initial cost: Composite decking tends to be more expensive to purchase and install than natural wood, although this may be offset by long-term maintenance savings.

2. Less authentic appearance: While manufacturers have made progress in reproducing the appearance of wood, some purists may prefer the authenticity of natural wood.