The Pros & Cons Of Wooden, Composite Versus Upvc Decking

As previously mentioned, wood flooring is a softer material and as such, more likely to cause things like splinters. For garden users who like to walk about barefoot, this can present a damage to cuts, scrapes and grazes. What’s more is that damage to the wood is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and dirt that can then go on to cause infection if it comes into contact with human skin. Composite decking is made in a whole host of different grains and colours that are made to look like wood as well as a range of different widths and lengths. When it comes to deciding what type of deck would suit you best, one of the most fundamental decisions you’ll need to make is whether you plump for a composite deck or a hardwood deck.

All boards at Elite Outdoor Living from our budget options to our premium grade products are all made with round hollow profiles for these reasons. Hardwood fibres like the actual wood itself has a low water absorption property. This means when exposed to the elements the Harwood fibres will absorb less water, so will swell less, shrink less and will not warp or twist. This also means the boards are less likely to grow mould & algae, stain and go black. This strength in the fibres make composite boards stronger. As you can not see the wood in a composite board you need guaranteed assurances that your chosen product contains the right grade of wood.

Wooden Decking

Welcome to the Deck Cost Guide, your source for deck ideas and information that will help you select the right deck material and deck brand to complete your deck. We’ve mentioned that adding a railing and stairs means higher labor costs.

Wood Vs Composite Decking Costs

Anywhere between £180 and £240 – it will include the installation fee, too. If the wood absorbs moisture quickly, then it will need to be sealed and stained. You can check if that’s the case by pouring a bit of water on top.

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Decking is an excellent way to add both appeal and value to your home or premises. Patio or low level decking can be the perfect solution to hide an unattractive space or simply raise an area to be level with a conservatory. Decking is versatile and can be designed for dining areas, play areas or somewhere to have a peaceful rest. If you have an area in your garden that is not level, has an ugly concrete base or is difficult to access with a digger then decking could turn out more cost effective to install than paving. The first oceanside boardwalk in the States, The Atlantic City Boardwalk, was made of wood, and according to studies wood continues to be the top choice for most residential decking projects. The cheapest poorest performing composite boards tend to have thin walled products that have a rectangular hollow.

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Compare How Much A Wood Vs Composite Deck Costs In 2017

Timber is easily sanded down and sections can even be replaced, so if you do suffer from rot or fungus you can treat that specific area rather than having to change your entire deck. However, you will need to look after your decking to ensure that it lasts for as long as the rest of your timber products at home. It just goes to show that you should read the small print on your warranty. Our decking products start at approximately £30 per square metre. Our capped deck boards also benefit from fade and stain cover.

Hardwood tends to change colour over time and may even slightly warp due to weathering. This is normal for a natural product to do and some people like that it does this as it gives the deck ‘character’.

I laid strips of black DPC used for bricks along the joists, to a deflect any water away from the joists and to avoid seeing wood colour through the grey decking. I used a wooden sub frame so maybe eventually that will rot, but its tanalised so hopefully good for a long time. However, if you use a premium product such as Textrol, the maintenance is easy. Once established, a single application of Textrol every other year will be sufficient to refresh the natural beauty of the wood and maintain the protection. On the other hand, if you are planning on using your deck for dining, you may opt to use hardwood you will be spending most of your time sitting at the table on chairs. If you are after a more simplistic or contemporary look, composite wood may be preferred.