Composite Decking Vs. Wooden Decking

Sagging

• Composite decking often lacks the rigidity needed for deck planks, states Consumer Reports, leading to bouncing and sagging as the deck ages. Sagging can be avoided by using shorter planks, but some composite materials will sag no matter what. Wood remains the best choice if flexing deck planks make you uncomfortable.

Durability

• Composite decking offers resistance against rot caused by moisture at a level only pressure treated lumber compares with. Most spills won't stain high quality composite decking, according to Consumer Reports, unlike unsealed wood. While composite decking contains wood pulp, termites can't damage your deck because the plastic materials in the planks.

Cleaning

• When wood becomes covered in mildew growth, it requires chemical cleaners and a pressure washer. Composite decking is more likely to gather mildew and mold due to the tendency of the wood pulp to encourage mold growth, according to the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association. Plastic composites attract mold and mildew that makes the surface dangerously slippery. Manufacturers added ridges to compensate, but this also encourages mildew growth.

Cost

• Composite decking has an average cost of $20 per square foot installed, at the time of publication, while pressure treated pine is only about $10 to $15 per square foot installed. Cedar and other high durability woods average about $20 per square foot, making composite decking comparable to these woods in cost.