Are you looking to elevate your outdoor space with a beautiful deck? Whether it’s a ground-level platform, a raised deck, or a cozy balcony, adding a deck can transform your backyard into a stylish haven. But with so many decking materials available, how do you decide which one is the best fit for your needs?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore composite decking vs natural wood decking, highlighting the pros and cons of composite boards, and helping you decide if this increasingly popular material is right for you.
The Top 5 Pros of Composite Decking
Low Maintenance: More Time for Relaxation
One of the biggest advantages of composite decking is its low-maintenance nature. Unlike natural wood, which requires regular sanding, painting, sealing, and staining, composite decking only needs occasional cleaning. No need to spend your weekends working on your deck—just sit back and enjoy the view.
Long-lasting Durability
Composite boards are built to last, handling extreme weather conditions better than traditional wood decking. With higher resistance to UV rays, composite decking won’t fade over time, even under the harsh sun. Plus, Feelingwood Composite Decking is resistant to mold, mildew, rot, splinters, and insect damage, ensuring your deck stays beautiful for years.
Eco-Friendly: A Green Choice for Your Garden
Concerned about sustainability? Composite decking is made from recycled materials, so you can feel good about your purchase. Feelingwood boards combine recycled plastics and FSC-certified wood fibers, reducing the environmental impact of your outdoor project while providing a long-lasting, eco-conscious alternative to traditional wood.
Safety First: Slip-Resistant Design
If you have young children or the elders, safety is a top priority. Feelingwood 3D textured composite decking offers a low-slip surface, reducing the risk of falls—something traditional wood decks can’t always promise.
Stylish & Versatile
Whether you prefer a rustic wood look or a modern aesthetic, composite decking offers versatility in style. Feelingwood offers a range of colors and finishes, from classic woodgrain designs to sleek, contemporary shades, so you can easily match your deck to your home’s exterior.
5 Cons of Composite Decking You Should Consider
Higher Initial Cos
While composite decking is a long-term investment, it does come with a higher upfront cost compared to traditional wood decking. However, when you factor in the low maintenance and long lifespan of composite boards, this initial investment can be well worth it.
Limited Flexibility in Color
Once your composite deck is installed, changing the color is not a simple task. Composite decking boards come in a variety of colors, but they’re designed to last without fading—meaning you won’t be able to repaint them to change their look. Choose your color wisely, as darker tones may fade slightly over time due to UV exposure.
Potential for Fading in Darker Colors
Despite composite decking’s resistance to UV damage, darker colors are still susceptible to fading over time. Prolonged exposure to sunlight and chemicals (like sunscreen or spilled drinks) can accelerate this process. However, premium composite boards, like Feelingwood, are UV-resistant to minimize fading.
Not 100% Wood–Look
While composite boards are designed to mimic the appearance of real wood, they might not achieve the same authenticity. However, high-quality composite decking such as Feelingwood’s Woodgrain Effect offers a realistic wood look with subtle grain patterns, so you can enjoy a natural aesthetic without the hassle of maintenance.
Resale Value: Not a Dealbreaker
While decking can increase the perceived living space of your home and improve curb appeal, the material itself may not add significant value to your property. Buyers often care more about the overall condition and aesthetic appeal of the deck rather than the specific material it’s made from.
Is Composite Decking Worth It?
So, is composite decking worth the investment? If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, durable, and eco-friendly decking option, composite materials could be the perfect solution. Feelingwood Composite Decking offers a wide range of colors and finishes to suit any home, and its long-lasting durability means fewer repairs and replacements in the future.
For more information on Feelingwood Composite Decking, or to get a quote for your next outdoor project, please use our Decking Calculator for an instant estimate.
