Wood Vs. Composite Decking For Your Utah Home
What kind of deck would a woodchuck build, if a woodchuck could build a deck?
Hint: he probably WOULDN’T say wood anymore. 😉
When building a deck, you have several options to choose from for your deck flooring. The most common materials people use to build their decks are Wood and Composite.
Traditionally, wood has been the way to go when building a deck. Wood was the standard because it’s just how it was done, and it was the only material that could sustain the weather changes and withstand the weight and foot traffic.
That is, wood was the standard until composite decking came along.
What is composite deck material? We are so glad you asked!
Here at Blackrock Decks, we build decks with composite decking material, and we partner with two industry-leading companies, Trex Decking and TimberTech, to provide you with the highest quality outcome.
So what is composite decking, and why is it more beneficial to build a deck with it instead of wood? Keep on reading to find out!
Composite Decking
Composite decking is made up of two core components: wood fibers and recycled plastic polymer fibers. Along with these major components, UV inhibitors, colored pigment, and binding agents help with the durability and strength of the material.
Which Can Weather the Weather?
Utah isn’t a stranger to wild weather, whether it be a spring downpour, frigid winters, or scorching summer temperatures.
This means your deck will go through major changes. It will take in moisture, go through the freeze and thaw cycle when the weather changes, absorb the heat from the sun, and more.
When this happens to traditional wood decks, even if they’re treated or stained, they will trap in moisture and start to break down. This eventually leads to rot, fungi and mold growth, weakened structure, and other problems that compromise the deck’s stability.
During the typical freeze-thaw cycles we see here in Utah, water will seep into the tiny crevices and cracks in the wood and freeze, causing it to expand and then crack or warp the wood.
You can see something similar in the hot summers when wood is most likely to splinter. This is due to what is called “photodegradation,” when the UV rays from the sun break down and weaken the wood to the point where it can splinter and crack.
Because composite decking isn’t just made of wood, it means it’s more durable. Nor does it absorb moisture like a traditional wood board, which means it won’t rot or grow mold that will compromise the structural integrity. It is quite simply engineered to withstand everything that a deck could go through. It can handle the sun, snow, heavy rainfall, and more with an elevated look that mimics real wood.
High Maintenance vs. Low Maintenance
Traditional wood decks are what we here at Blackrock consider high maintenance, for the simple reason that we know how little maintenance it takes to keep a composite deck looking great season after season.
Wood decks need to be stained or sealed every year (In some climates, this can be extended to every 2 years, but in Utah, it is suggested to do it every year). This helps with keeping the wood from drying out, since a stain adds UV protection and helps with water absorption, allowing the water to bead on the surface instead of soaking in.
Due to its high-quality engineering, you don’t ever have to seal or stain a composite deck. Overall, a composite deck is extremely low maintenance, which is a major bonus because who wants to add another chore to your to do list? Your deck is for relaxation and entertaining, not for maintenance work!
*For composite deck maintenance, check out our blog page for seasonal maintenance tips!
Composite decking hardly requires anything in terms of upkeep—just a simple sweep, mop, or light power wash to get any debris off.
Lifespan of the Deck
When you think about the cost of the deck, it’s important to take into account not only the initial investment, but the yearly maintenance and lifespan as well. In comparison with wood decks, composite decks will have significantly less cost for maintenance and upkeep.
In terms of lifespan, composite decks have wood decks beat out, too.
IF a wooden deck is properly maintained and repairs are made when damage happens, it can last about 15-20 years. It can have a shorter lifespan if you live in a harsher climate or if you don’t take care of your deck properly.
A composite deck can last twice as long, with some decking companies offering warranties up to 50 years! It just so happens that the two companies we use, Trex and Timbertech, offer those higher year warranties, which proves the high quality of the materials they use and we trust to install for our homeowners!
So when it comes down to it, even though a composite deck is a higher initial investment, you will find that your composite deck will outlive and outlast a traditional wooden deck. PLUS, it also saves you time in your busy life because you won’t have to do major maintenance and upkeep to keep it looking great!
The Winner Is Clear: Composite Decks Are the Best Bang For Your Buck and Your Lifestyle!
If you are interested in building a new deck with the highest quality and longest-lasting materials on the market, it’s time to call our team at Blackrock Decks! Our team can help you design and then install the deck of your dreams, complete with all the small and large details (like a custom deck roof or a fireplace)!
If you want to enjoy a deck without the pressure of having to constantly maintain it beyond a little sweeping and washing, a composite deck is the way to go.
We service many cities in the Wasatch Front area, including those in Davis County, Salt Lake County, Utah County, Summit County, and Wasatch County. We specialize in composite decks, and we know what it takes to build a deck that will withstand the constantly changing weather we experience here in Utah.
Contact us and request a quote today to enjoy deck life for years to come!
