Composite vs Wood Decks

I need to replace my old deck and place decks steps round it. I'm thinking of using either wood or composite.
 
Now apart from cost (wood being cheaper), is there other reasons why I should use composite instead of wood?
 
I've heard that composite is better in the long run, but I'm not sure if that's true.
 
A lot of people are going through a similar dilemma when they are thinking about redoing their decks. Wood has been the traditional material for decades, but now there is a new kid on the block - composite. So, which should you choose? Here is a comparison between wood and composite to help you make your decision:

Composite vs Wood: Pros and Cons 

Cost

Wood is cheaper than composite upfront. However, composite will likely last longer so it may end up being the cheaper option in the long run.
 
Maintenance

Wood needs to be stained and sealed every few years to keep it looking good. Composite is much easier to maintain because it doesn’t require these treatments.
 
Appearance

Wood has a natural beauty that composite cannot match. However, composite comes in a variety of colors and can be made to look like wood.
 
Lifespan

Wood decks typically last 15-20 years. Composite decks can last 25-30 years or more.
 
So, there are pros and cons to both wood and composite. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and your budget.
 
If you want a deck that looks like wood but is easier to maintain, composite may be the right choice for you.
 
If you want a cheaper deck that will still last a long time, wood may be the way to go. Whichever you choose, enjoy your new deck!

Wood Deck vs Composite Decks- Regrets?

So you've decided to build a deck. You've done your research and weighed the pros and cons of wood vs composite decks. But now that you've made your decision, are you happy with it? Do you have any regrets?
 
Here's what some people who have chosen wood or composite decks have to say:
 
‘I regret not going with composite. I love the look of wood, but it's so much work to keep it looking good!’
 
‘I don't regret my decision to go with wood. It was cheaper and I love the natural look. Plus, it's not that much work to maintain it.’
 
‘I wish I had gone with a different type of wood. The one I chose is rotting and falling apart.’
 
‘I'm glad I chose composite. It's easy to take care of and it looks great. I don't miss the hassle of maintaining a wood deck at all!’
 
‘Happy that I chose composite! I wanted a deck that will not require regular maintenance because I can't get the time (work, sick mom, young kids...).’
 
From these comments, here's what we can conclude about composite decking:
 
1. Composite looks and feels great all the time
 
2. Composite decks is easy to clean
 
3. Very comfortable to walk on bare feet
 
4. Requires minimal maintenance to keep it looking great up to 30 years
 
5. Have the same beautiful appearance as wood but with the advantage of being long lasting without the hassles of maintaining it.
 
Also, your answers to these questions will determine if composite decks is the right option:
 

• Would you want a deck that you have to sand, pressure wash, and stain every few years?

 

• Do you want boards that you have to replace after a few years due to rotting?

 

• Do you mind if your deck is a different color than the sample you saw in the store?

 

• Do you want to be able to walk on your deck barefoot without getting splinters?

 

• Do you want a deck that will last for decades with little to no maintenance?

 
If you answered "no" to any of these questions, then composite decks is the right material for your deck.
 
Now that you know all this, would you still choose wood over composite for your deck? The choice is yours! Good luck!
 
If you're still undecided, hopefully, this will help you make a decision. And if you need help with your choices, the Ogden Deck Depot deck experts are available to help!
 
Stop by our store or give us a call. We'd love to walk with you so you can actualize your vision for your backyard.
 

Weight Limit for Composite Decking

Most composite decking has a weight limit of 200 pounds per square foot. This means that if you have a 10-foot by 10-foot section of deck, you can put 20 people on it without exceeding the weight limit.
 
This is generally adequate for most families who want to use their decks for entertaining and relaxing. However, if you plan to use your deck for heavier activities such as basketball or volleyball, you may need to look into a composite decking that has a higher weight limit.
 
Some examples of composite decking with high weight limits are DuraLife Decking and Fiberon Horizon Decking. These brands have weight limits of 400 pounds per square foot, which is double the industry standard.
 
If you are unsure of what brand or type of composite decking to choose, the experts at Ogden Deck Depot can help you select the best option for your needs. We carry a wide variety of composite decking and can special order anything that we don't have in stock.
 
Stop by our Ogden deck supplies store or give us a call today! We look forward to helping you build the deck of your dreams.
 
How Much can a 10 X 10 Deck Hold?
 
The average 10 X 10 deck can hold up to 100 pounds per square foot. This means that you can have 10 people on your deck at one time without exceeding the weight limit.
 
Of course, this is just an estimate and you should always check with the manufacturer of your composite decking to get their specific weight limit. Some brands of composite decking have higher weight limits than others.
 
How Much can a 12 X 12 Deck Hold?
 
The average 12 X 12 deck can hold up to 120 pounds per square foot. This means that you can have 12 people on your deck at one time without exceeding the weight limit.
 
Remember, this weight limit depends on the brand of composite decking that you choose. Some brands have higher weight limits than others.
 
If you are unsure of what brand or type of composite decking to choose, the experts at Ogden Deck Depot can help you select the best option for your needs. We carry a wide variety of composite decking and can special order anything that we don't have in stock.
 
How Much Weight Can an 8 X 8 Deck Hold?
 
The average 8 X 8 deck can hold up to 80 pounds per square foot. This means that you can have 8 people assuming that the average weight per person is 150 pounds.
 
Of course, this weight limit depends on the brand of composite decking that you choose. Some composite brands have higher weight limits than others.
 
How Much Overhang for Composite Decking?
 
Most composite decking has a minimum overhang of 1-1/2 inches. This means that if you have a 10-foot by 10-foot section of deck, you can have up to 15 people on it without exceeding the weight limit.
 
Of course, this is just an estimate and you should always check with the manufacturer. Also, the deck's reinforcement will play a role in how much weight the deck can hold.