Selecting the right decking material is crucial for any outdoor project, whether you are a DIY enthusiast or an industry professional. Both PVC and wood decking offer unique benefits and drawbacks, and understanding the differences between PVC vs Wood decking can help you make the best decision in terms of decking materials.
Fortunately, we’re taking an up close look at the PVC and wood decking differences.
Are you ready?
Exploring Wood Decking Durability
Wood decking is a timeless choice that is known for its natural beauty and versatility. Commonly used woods include pressure-treated pine, cedar, redwood, and exotic hardwoods like ipe and cumaru, though each type of wood has distinct characteristics.
Pine
Pressure-treated pine is one of the most budget-friendly options. It is treated to resist rot and insects, which makes it durable, but it can warp and crack if not properly maintained. Regular sanding, staining, and sealing are required to keep it in good condition.
Cedar and Redwood
Cedar and redwood offer natural resistance to rot and insects. They provide a beautiful, rich appearance but need periodic sealing and staining to maintain their look. However, These woods are generally more expensive than pine.
Exoctic Hardwoods
Exotic hardwoods like ipe and cumaru are extremely durable and resistant to weathering, rot, and insects. These woods offer a high-end, luxurious finish, though they come with a higher initial cost. With proper care, they can last over 25 years.
PVC Decking Advantages
PVC decking is highly resistant to moisture, insects, and UV rays, to ensure that it doesn’t easily warp, crack, or fade, and it requires only periodic cleaning with soap and water and does not need staining or sealing.
Not to mention, it comes in a range of colors and textures, which helps PVC replicate the appearance of natural wood with a sleek, modern look.
Cost Comparison: Wood vs. PVC Decking
When comparing the costs of wood and PVC decking, it’s important to consider both the initial installation and long-term maintenance:
Initial Costs
Wood decking is generally cheaper initially. For a 200-square-foot deck, the cost might range from $3,000-$5,000 for wood and $4,000-$6,000 for PVC. Pressure-treated pine is the most affordable, while exotic hardwoods come with a higher initial price.
PVC decking, however, generally ranges from $10-$15 per square foot, which makes it more expensive initially. But the lower maintenance costs over time can make it a cost-effective option.
Maintenance Costs
Wood decking requires regular maintenance, including sanding, staining, and sealing, which can cost $500-$1,000 annually. PVC decking, on the other hand, only requires occasional cleaning, for lower long-term costs.
Comparing Wood vs PVC Decking Materials
Wood and PVC decking both have strengths and weaknesses regarding durability and maintenance.
Wood Decking Longevity
There are two types of wood to consider for wood decking: Softwood and hardwood. Softwood decking can last 15-20 years with proper maintenance, though it is susceptible to rot, insect damage, and weathering .Hardwood decking, on the other hand, can last up to 75+ years with proper maintenance.
PVC Decking Longevity
PVC decking typically lasts 25-50 years. It is highly resistant to environmental factors that degrade wood and it requires minimal maintenance, primarily involving occasional cleaning.
Comparing The Sustainability of Wood vs PVC Decking
Sustainability is an important consideration for many homeowners. Here’s how wood and PVC decking compare with each other:
Wood Decking: Wood is a renewable resource, but its treatment involves chemicals, and maintenance products that may impact the environment.
PVC Decking: Often made from virgin materials, though some brands incorporate recycled content. PVC decking has a lower overall environmental impact due to its durability and minimal maintenance requirements.
Contrasting Appearances of Wood vs. PVC Decking
Wood Decking: It has a natural appearance with unique grain patterns and textures. It can be stained or painted to match any aesthetic to create a one-of-a-kind look.
PVC Decking: PVC provides a uniform appearance with no variations in grain or color. Available in various colors and textures, PVC decking offers modern, sleek lines.
Products Offered by Lumber Plus
At Lumber Plus, a wide range of high-quality decking materials is available to meet diverse project needs.
Hardwood Decking Options
- Ipe: Known as Brazilian Walnut, Ipe is extremely durable and can last up to 75 years. It offers a luxurious, high-end finish.
- Cumaru: Another durable option, Cumaru is resistant to rot, insects, and weathering.
- Garapa: Garapa offers a golden color and is naturally resistant to decay and insects without chemical treatments.
- Tigerwood: Recognized for its unique grain patterns and colors, Tigerwood provides a striking aesthetic.
- Jatoba: Known for its hardness and rich color, Jatoba is a great choice for long-lasting decking.
- Angelim Pedra: Angelim Pedra offers exceptional durability and a unique appearance with stones embedded in the sapwood.
PVC Decking Options
- Norx®: Known for its durability and low maintenance, Norx® PVC decking offers a variety of colors and textures.
- Wolf®: Wolf® provides excellent traction, minimal fading, and a wood-like texture.
- Tiva™: Lightweight and easy to install, Tiva™ PVC decking is both durable and visually appealing.
- Fiberon®: In a wide range of colors and designs, Fiberon® PVC decking is known for its high performance and low maintenance.
Ideal Applications for Wood and PVC Decking
When deciding between wood vs PVC decking, it’s essential to consider the specific needs and conditions of your project to ensure you choose the best material for your outdoor space. Once you do that, here are a few places you can use them:
Heavy Load-Bearing Structures
Wood’s strength makes it perfect for structures like pergolas, gazebos, and other large deck surfaces.
Pool Decks
PVC decking is ideal for pool areas due to its slip-resistant properties, which makes it safer in wet conditions.
Coastal Regions
Hardwood decking is perfect for coastal regions where it is exposed to hotter temperatures. Some types of PVC decking have issues with warping, whereas hardwood decking maintains its firm, strong appearance
High-Traffic Areas
The durability and low maintenance of PVC decking make it suitable for high-traffic areas, such as commercial properties, public spaces, and busy residential decks.
Discover Superior Decking Solutions with Lumber Plus
Alt Text: an image of Lumber Plus wood deck from Lumber Plus around a luxury pool
Choosing the right decking material, whether it’s PVC vs wood decking materials, can make all the difference in your outdoor project’s success.
At Lumber Plus, we provide a range of high-quality decking materials tailored to meet your specific needs.
Contact us today for more information!
