Decks can be a great way to add value to your home and provide a space for entertaining and relaxing outdoors. There are two basic types of decking materials: wood and composite. Both are durable and easy to install but have different features that can affect your decision. Wooden decks are made from natural wood, while composite decks are made from wood fiber and other materials. So which one is better? While deciding the most suitable material for your deck is one step closer to having the deck of your dreams, choosing a skilled deck builder is also an important factor to consider for maximum satisfaction with the outcome. With us, you can get a professional deck builder in Laurel to give your home that \”feel good\” natural glow. We’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you choose the perfect material for your home.

Here are the Pros and Cons of Wood Decking

Pros

Affordability. Wood decks have upfront lower costs. You can put up a wood deck for less money than composite decks.

Appearance. Wood naturally has a beautiful look. Although composite materials are manufactured to mimic wood, real wood’s feel, look, and smell cannot be replicated.

Versatility. Wood is versatile and can be transformed easily. Just by sanding and adding a new coat stain, you can have a fresh-looking and trendy wooden deck anytime you want. Additionally, you can easily expand or add a shade to your deck by simply purchasing a similar wood species, and your new features will blend seamlessly with your deck.

Eco-friendly. Wood is a natural renewable resource, thus biodegradable, which means that it has minimal impacts on the environment.

Cons

Similar to all other materials, wood also has its’ drawbacks, as we will see below:

Regular maintenance. A natural wood deck is susceptible to damage and weathering. If exposed and not properly maintained, it can crack, split or rot. Thus regular staining and sealing are required. In addition, trees have to be cut to produce wood.

Pros and Cons of Composite Decking.

Pros.

Composite decking is a great choice for homeowners who want to prolong the life of their deck, as composite material lasts longer than wood. Also, it is made from recycled plastic, so it helps save natural resources and energy, protecting the environment.

Low maintenance. It doesn’t require any special care or treatment, so you don’t have to worry about splinters or moldy wet wood. It is also more durable since it’s more resistant to water, sunlight, and weather resistant than most types of wood.

Composite decking can be manufactured to look like any other type of wood decking—even premium woods like teak and hickory.

Cons.

Installation is costly compared to wood decking. Secondly, the materials are more susceptible to oil and grease stains, thus requiring chemical cleaners that can strip the finish. Since the material is not entirely natural, it is not biodegradable, and its color can fade with time. The decks can be slippery during winter and very hot during summer.

Which is the Best Choice for You?

To know which best suits you, consider how you will use the deck, your budget, your maintenance plan, and how often you plan on replacing or repairing it. If you want your deck to look like traditional wood but don’t want to deal with the maintenance that comes along with wood decks, you may want to consider composite decking. It’s long-lasting and durable, and in most cases, you won’t have to do anything special to keep it looking nice. However, it is more expensive than wood. On the other hand, Wood decking is less expensive but will need more repairs or replacement. If you still need help deciding, you are always welcome to seek professional advice from our deck builders in Laurel, MD. We take pride in serving our community to ensure you have the best outdoor experience.

In need of a Deck Builder in Laurel, MD?

If so, then we are here for you. We are a top deck builder in Laurel, who can build any deck style you desire that fits your home perfectly. All of our composite decking and wood decking materials are assembled with care and precision to create a beautiful outdoor space for you. We maintain a legacy of providing the Highest Quality workmanship to all of our customers in Maryland. To find out more, visit us or contact us to get you started!