Wood vs Vinyl Decking: Which is Better?
Are you trying to choose between wood and vinyl decking for your outdoor space? Look no further! In this blog, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of Vinyl decking vs Wood. Whether you’re a homeowner considering a deck renovation or a design enthusiast seeking the perfect material for your dream outdoor space, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to transform your outdoor living experience as we different aspects of decking and which material is best. Let’s dive in and find out which option is best for you!
Wood And Vinyl Decking Compared
In the last 30 years, backyard decks have usually been constructed with wood decking. Those decks are now nearing the end of their lifetime. So, if you want your deck rebuilt or to build a new one, you should know a few things. First, vinyl decks are more expensive than wood decks because they are more challenging to build. However, this price increase is minimal when compared to the benefits of vinyl decking! Here are the areas where vinyl decking excels over wooden decking.
Fade Resistance
Natural wood will fade to a dull grade since it is exposed to the sun over a long period. You will need to repaint or re-stain your deck later. Vinyl decking is more resident to fading when compared to wood and wood composite decking. In fact, Clubhouse Decking has a 25-year limited fade and stain warranty! Skip the maintenance bother with a vinyl deck!
Sophisticated Aesthetics
Vinyl decks have a ton of benefits when it comes to color options. Clubhouse Decking, our primary vinyl decking supplier, has two color collections. The Hardwood collection features varying grains and colors, creating a shockingly realistic replication of hardwood. The Earthstone collection features colors that look like a painted wooden deck.
Durability
When compared to wooden decking, vinyl decks are more durable! Clubhouse Decking performed impact tests in a laboratory using a 10-pound weight. These tests resulted in less damage to the vinyl decking, proving that their products are more durable than hardwood decking! You will never have to worry about rot, mold, and splinters on a vinyl deck.
Spill Resistant
Unlike wood decking, vinyl decks are spill-resistant! Wooden decking is porous, so any spills on your backyard deck will seep into the wood and either cause rotting or a stain that will not go away. Vinyl is not porous, so you will not need to worry about stains. Any liquid spills can easily be mopped up or washed off!
Mold Resistant
Have you ever seen a wooden deck that looks greenish or has darker spots? Take a look at this picture. These defects are caused by mold. Mold is challenging to remove, and power washing your deck will embed the mold further, worsening your mold problem! Do you want to avoid the pain of removing mold? Vinyl decks are mold resistant, so you will never have to worry about it!
Stays Cooler
Do you remember running outside on your parent’s decks during the summertime when you were a kid? Remember how the deck boards would sear your feet? Well, you and your kids don’t need to experience that anymore! Vinyl decking has a hollow core and PVC has lower heat retention than wood, so you will not have a searing hot deck in the summertime.
More Traction
Vinyl surfaces are naturally slip-resistant. A wet wooden deck will be more slippery than a vinyl deck. Vinyl doesn’t splinter or warp and does not have nails, so it is less likely you will trip on your deck.
Vinyl Decks Options
What options do you have if you would like a superior vinyl deck? Thankfully, the possibilities are nearly endless! Since the entire product is engineered, our vinyl products are highly customizable.
Color Technology
First off, you will never need to restrain or repaint your deck! Clubhouse Decking is engineered to withstand UV rays, so your outdoor living area colors will not fade from the sun. There is a color option for everybody! The Hardwood collection features realistic wood colors that emulate a stained deck. The Earthstone collection features lighter colors that look like a painted deck. The color options make vinyl an obvious choice!
Realistic Finish
Clubhouse decking uses a deep embossing technology that makes their vinyl decking realistic. Unlike cheaper vinyl products, Clubhouse Decking has natural wood grain patterns in their products. Each product has a grain style so that you can have a unique backyard deck.
Warranty
Clubhouse Decking is so confident in its products that they offer a 25-year limited warranty! That is why we use their products. You need the best return for your money, so a warranty is vital as a layer of protection. To learn more about the vinyl decking warranty, contact us today.
Superior Technology
Clubhouse decking is manufactured with a proprietary technology called Korelite. Korelite technology creates a denser cell structure than competing products. This technology means our decking is more rigid than some of the hardest wood products. In fact, in their impact tests, Clubhouse products were tougher than Brazilian hardwood!
Dual Sided Boards
Clubhouse Decking uses a single extrusion process meaning the PVC core and cap stock become one. When the capstock and PVC combine, it creates a stronger bond during the extrusion process. We make decking with two different colors on the opposite side. This design gives you more flexibility, and it is easier to source inventory if you need a replacement board.
How to Get Started
1. Consultation
Every successful project begins with a thorough understanding of our clients’ needs and preferences. At Upper Dauphin Vinyl Products, we schedule an initial consultation with our clients to discuss their vision, budget, and design ideas. During this stage, we assess the site, take measurements, and consider any unique requirements or challenges that may arise. Our team of experts works closely with the clients to ensure we capture their desired style and functionality for the vinyl deck.
2. Custom Design
Once we have a clear understanding of our clients’ expectations, our skilled designers get to work, translating ideas into detailed blueprints. We pay meticulous attention to every aspect of the design, taking into account the deck’s shape, size, railing options, and any additional features like stairs or built-in seating. We have customized many decks so we know we can find a design to fit your needs. If you want some design ideas, check out our completed projects page!
3. Material
At Upper Dauphin Vinyl Products, we believe in using only the highest quality materials to ensure the longevity and beauty of our vinyl decks. We offer a wide range of vinyl options, each with its own unique characteristics, colors, and textures. Our clients can choose from an array of premium vinyl materials that not only withstand the elements but also require minimal maintenance. Our experienced team provides guidance on selecting the right material that suits both the aesthetic vision and budget of our clients
4. Construction
With the design and materials finalized, our skilled craftsmen begin the construction process. We adhere to industry best practices and follow all local building codes to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the vinyl deck. Our team meticulously measures and cuts the vinyl materials, assembling them with precision and care. We take great pride in delivering superior craftsmanship at every step of the construction process.
5. Finishing Touch
After the main construction is complete, we focus on the finishing touches that add charm and character to the vinyl deck. Our team pays attention to details such as railing systems, post caps, lighting options, and any customized features requested by the client. We believe that these final touches elevate the overall aesthetics of the deck, creating a seamless and visually appealing outdoor living space.
6. Quality
At Upper Dauphin Vinyl Products, we are committed to providing our clients with the highest standards of quality. Before the final handover, our team conducts a thorough inspection to ensure that the vinyl deck meets our strict quality control measures. We check for proper installation, structural integrity, and finishing details to guarantee that the deck is not only visually stunning but also built to stand the test of time.
What Are Your Options?
We are a deck builder with decades of experience in central Pennsylvania. We can make your outdoor living dreams come true with our easy process. Contact us today to get started, or check out our completed projects page to see how we have helped improve backyard decks all across Pennsylvania.
