A deck is a great area to unwind, entertain, and take in the scenery. Cleaning and staining the deck for hours, and in some instances days, isn’t for everyone. Engineered decking has grown quite popular in the last decade, with dozens of different manufacturers offering it. Polymer or PVC and composite are the two major forms of engineered wood commonly referred to as composite boards. We’re here to assist you if you’re having trouble picking between PVC and kompositterrasse.
In this article, we’ll go over the important arguments in the dispute over which is better, as well as what PVC and composite decking are and how they vary. We’ll also look at the benefits and drawbacks of plastic decking, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of composite decking. Our objective is to assist you in deciding whether composite or PVC is preferable for your deck project.
What Is PVC Decking?
Before it hardens, polyvinyl chloride is extruded through specialized dies to create PVC-terrasse. Prior to going through molds where it is fashioned like a deck board and the wood grain texture is implanted or embossed, the PVC can be colored. Some companies wrap and fuse a wood-colored and grained surface to a recycled PVC board, resulting in a crosscut profile with many hues.
What Is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is made up of several materials that have been combined or blended together to produce a uniform hue. Organic material, such as wood fibers or sawdust (wood flour), is frequently blended with high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, or PVC in the boards. Much of the material used in composite wood manufacturing is pre- or post-consumer recycled.
PVC or Composite Decking: What’s the Difference?
The composition is the fundamental distinction between PVC and composite decking. PVC is made entirely of plastic, whereas kompositbrædder include organic and inorganic materials. Other discrepancies range from minor to considerable, depending on the traits or variables under consideration. Capped and uncapped boards are available in both PVC and composite decking, with uncapped boards being more cost-effective. Capped komposit terrassebraedder has a protective overlay that is fused to either the top surface or completely wraps the board during the production process. It has a stronger, more lasting surface that is less susceptible to stains and mold and mildew growth.
In the PVC vs. composite decking comparison, there are eighteen main aspects to consider:
Appearance / Aesthetics
Aesthetics, in general, is in the eye of the beholder. Some prefer the appearance and feel of PVC, while others prefer composite. When compared to the softer, more wood-like grain in composite, PVC has a linear, more aggressive wood grain pattern that may appear more manufactured.
Durability
Many of the parameters included in this comparison of PVC and composite decking take durability into account. When compared to actual wood, both forms of decking are quite durable, but PVC is more so. In the same setting, both will outlive wood, need less maintenance, and hold their color for longer. The fact that PVC is 100 percent plastic and hence non-organic makes it more durable than composite. Composite wood’s lifetime and durability are influenced by the organic material. This is also why patio furniture, pets, mold, mildew, and environmental variables are less likely to harm PVC.
Lifespan
The longevity of decking is mostly determined by the quality of the materials chosen and their installation, as well as the deck frame’s own lifespan. Environmental variables can also influence life expectancy. PVC is less prone to environmental hazards and is more durable, thus it will outlast composite decking of equivalent grade.Manufacturer’s warranties are a solid indicator of how long something will last. PVC decking has a restricted lifetime to lifetime structural guarantee, but composite decking has a 25 to 30-year warranty. In comparison to composite wood, PVC provides a 50-year guarantee against stains and fading.
Maintenance
Wood decking requires more upkeep than PVC and composite deck planks, and capped decking needs even less. When required, or a couple of times a year, hosing off the deck surface and using a soft-bristle brush to remove pollen, dirt, leaves, and other debris can keep the surface looking like new. It’s also crucial to maintain the spaces between boards as clean as possible.
Conclusion
PVC or Composite Decking: The choice between PVC and composite decking for durability, lifespan, and value for money may come down to aesthetics and budget. Capped versus uncapped decking is the most straightforward option. In most cases, capped PVC will outlive and exceed capped composite, but the quality and endurance come at a greater cost. Hopefully, you now have a better idea of whether PVC or composite is best for your project.
