Your Complete Guide to Composite Decking
In 2021, the country saw one of the most severe lumber shortages in history. The massive interest in outdoor living spaces and deck projects was one of the driving forces behind lumber prices hitting an all-time high of a 406% increase from the previous year, according to the National Association of Home Builders.
Ever since then, the popularity of composite decking continues to grow. With more homeowners re-investing into their property through remodeling projects, there’s more demand for outdoor living products that are stylish and build to perform. If you’re not familiar with composite decking or just interested in learning more, the experts at Envision are here to help. Join us as we share a complete guide to composite decking.
What Is Composite Decking?
Composite decking (or composite wood) is a lumber alternative that is man-made by combining recycled wood fibers and plastic. It’s also important to note that there are two primary types of composite decking boards, uncapped and capped.
Uncapped composite decking often has a more natural look but can be prone to mold and mildew growth that requires more frequent cleaning. Capped composite decking is manufactured with a hard capstock shell and offers more protection and resistance to the elements. It’s important to know that both these types of composite decking boards have their own applications and one is not inherently superior to the other.
Are Composite Decking Boards Worth It?
While composite decking boards might have an increase in cost compared to traditional wood, they offer higher durability and less maintenance. Composite wood brands like Envision Outdoor Living Products, also offers a wide range of colors and collections so there’s an option for almost any budget. To give you a better idea of the value composite decking can bring to your outdoor living project, let’s take a look at some of the benefits.
The Benefits of Composite Decking
Why should homeowners and contractors choose composite decking? Let’s dive into the benefits.
- Composite Decking Is Durable: Since it features that durable capped finish, composite decking boards are engineered to be more resistant to warping, splitting, cracking, and insects. Unlike traditional wood, composite decking also does a better job keeping moisture out while retaining its color.
- Low Maintenance: Did you know that traditional wooden decks usually need to undergo maintenance at least every three years? And the added work doesn’t stop there, wooden decks also need to be checked for any warping or cracks. Composite wood doesn’t need any of that regular maintenance to maintain its appearance and integrity. There’s quick cleanup of any spills and simply rinsing off any residue on the surface is enough for it to stay looking great every season.
- A Look That Doesn’t Impact Performance: With a traditional wooden deck, choosing the right natural color can become complicated. Each type of wood has its own unique hardness rating. You could find a natural color you like only to realize that you’d have to compromise on durability. With Envision composite decking, you’re able to showcase your style without worrying about its impact on durability.
- More Aesthetic Options: One of the unique advantages of composite decking is the flexibility to choose a color and style that suits your project. For example, the Distinction Collection offers rich colors and bold highlights, while the Ridge Premium Collection has the appearance of reclaimed wood aged on the rustic countryside. Pair multiple colors for a look that’s completely custom.
- Save Money Long-term: While composite decking might be more expensive than traditional wood up front, that investment pays off in the future. Not only are composite decks cheaper to maintain, but you’ll typically end up paying less for repairs and upkeep.
How Much Does Composite Decking Cost?
One of most common questions about composite decking is, “how much does it cost”? On average, composite decking boards cost between $25 to $60 dollars a square foot installed compared to the $20 to $45 dollar range of traditional wood. Even though the initial difference in cost seems obvious, there’s more to consider.
For starters, most traditional wood does not come with a warranty, which means you would pay out of pocket for potential replacement boards. As we mentioned above, traditional wood is much more expensive in time and money to maintain. On average, a 20×20 wood deck would cost roughly $1,200 a year for the upkeep
What Sets Envision Composite Decking Apart?
Even though composite decking products share some overall characteristics, not all brands are created equal. Brands like Envision strive to ensure that the materials you choose for an outdoor living project have the highest quality. What makes Envision composite decking boards stand apart from other brands? Let’s take a closer look at the Envision Difference.
Envision Uses Compression Technology
Envision is the only composite decking that’s made from compression molding rather than extrusion. Our proprietary Compress Technology™ uses tremendous heat and pressure to physically bond the high-density cap and the EverGrain Core™, squeezing out air pockets for a board that is beautiful as well as dense, strong and engineered to last.
Starting with a Strong Core
All Envision composite decking is built with on our EverGrain core – a product that’s been proven in high-traffic areas for more than 20 years. With that EverGrain Core, our composite decking products are resistant to splitting, insects, rot, and splinters. That’s why Envision composite decking is trusted across the country by stadiums, national parks, homeowners and contractors.
An Unmatched Style
Part of what makes Envision composite decking unique is that there’s a color and aesthetic for almost every outdoor living project. With Envision, you have the flexibility to pick the perfect color, add accents or even mix and match to achieve a unique style for your project. Combine that with our non-repeating grain, and you get composite decking that mirrors the unique beauty of nature.
Where Can You Find Envision Composite Decking?
As we’re nearing the end of our guide to composite decking, one of the final points we need to cover is finding out where you find these products. Envision Outdoor Living’s online locator makes it easy for both homeowners and contractors to find a dealer nearby. With one click, you can find out where to buy Envision composite decking.
Composite Decking That's Designed for Style and Built for Performance
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to start a new outdoor living project or a contractor trying to set your work apart, Envision composite decking is here to help. Our team can help you start your next project with helpful resources and design tips.
With a variety of colors and collections to choose from, we’re here to help you find your unique style with outdoor living products that are proven to perform. Learn more about our composite decking by contacting our team today!
