PVC decking is a great option for those looking for a durable, long-lasting and low-maintenance decking material. It is available in various colours and styles, making it a great option for those who want to customize their outdoor living space. PVC decking is also resistant to rot and insect damage, making it a great option for those living in areas with high humidity or with a risk of termites.
But what gives PVC decking all these wonderful features? We will answer this and many other questions about PVC decking.
What is PVC-based composite decking made of?
PVC decking is made from polyvinyl chloride, a type of plastic. Entirely composed of plastic with no organic material to rot or absorb water. A polymer cap wrapping the core of the decking increases its beauty and durability to one of the longest-lasting decking materials on the market.
Some PVC is made entirely of recycled plastic, but most are made with a blend of virgin and recycled plastic. Blend for performance and environmentally friendly.
PVC is strong, durable and weather-resistant. It is also splinter-free and with a high level of slip-resistant
, making it ideal for use around pools and hot tubs. It will not fade or stain like other decking materials and does not require yearly sealing or staining.
PVC is one of the most expensive decking options but is generally warrantied for 50 years. Often called a lifetime warranty.
Which Companies Make PVC Decking?
There are a growing number of companies that manufacture PVC decking. Fiberon and TimberTech Azek are the 2 most prominent manufacturers of PVC decking. .
Below are additional PVC brands to consider:
- Barrette Outdoor Living
- Clubhouse
- EnDeck PVC Decking
- Genovations
- Gorilla® Wood Deck Boards
- Inteplast Group
- Lanai
- Renew
- Tiva
- VekaDeck
- Wolf Serenity
- Zuri
Plenty of options for a long lasting, beautiful deck.
What are the Top Pros and Cons of PVC-Based Decking?
PVC decking is a great option for those looking for an affordable, durable, and low-maintenance decking material.
But like all decking, there are some advantages and disadvantages with PVC decking that you should consider before building your deck.
Some of the top Pros of PVC decking
– Weather-resistant
– Splinter free
– High slip resistant
– Minimal maintenance
PVC decking is weather resistant because it is made entirely of plastic, including the cap. The cap increases the beauty and durability of one of the market’s longest-lasting decking materials.
Splinter-free, making it a safe choice for families with children or pets. Without painful splinters.
PVC decking is also slip-resistant. This is a great safety feature, especially if you have a pool or hot tub. You won’t have to worry about anyone slipping and falling on your deck.
One of the top advantages of PVC decking is that it requires little maintenance. You won’t have to worry about sealing or staining your deck every year.
Along with not fading or staining like natural decking materials backed by a 50-year warranty.
Some of the top Cons of PVC Decking
– Can easily melt from heat
– High initial cost
– Unstable with expansion and contraction from heat
A risk of PVC decking is melting from heat from firepits or grills. Heighten the need to take precautions to prevent damage. Click the link to learn how.
Another top con is that PVC decking has a high initial cost. Although it has a long warranty, the up-front costs can be prohibitive for some homeowners.
PVC decking is also unstable with expansion and contraction from heat, which can cause the material to warp or crack over time. Proper gapping between boards and ends is required to allow the material to move to the seasons.
PVC is a great choice for a long-lasting, beautiful deck. But like all materials, it has its pros and cons. Weigh the pros and cons to decide if PVC is the right choice for you.
Advantages of PVC Based Compared to Wood Composite Decking
There are many ways that PVC decking is superior to composite decking made from wood.
PVC decking is a great choice for decks that will come in contact with water or the ground. With no organic material, it will not absorb moisture, swell, or rot. PVC is also mould and mildew resistant, making it an excellent choice for damp or humid climates.
The cap of PVC decking is fade and stain-resistant. This means it will keep its good looks for years to come with little to no maintenance.
PVC is also insect resistant, so you won’t have to worry about termites or other wood-destroying insects. With no organic material for the insects to eat, they will leave your PVC decking alone.
Another advantage of PVC decking is the suns heat. PVC doesn’t absorb heat like wood composite decking, making it cooler to the touch in hot weather. This can be a great advantage if you live in a hot climate and want to enjoy your deck without burning your feet.
Summary of PVC-based composite decking
PVC decking is a long-lasting, beautiful decking material with many pros, such as weather resistance, splinter free, high slip resistant, and requiring little maintenance. Often with some of the longest decking warranties (50-year).
However, there are a few cons to consider, such as the fact that it can easily melt from the heat and has a high initial cost.
But overall, PVC is an excellent choice for a durable, low-maintenance deck.
