If you’re wondering which type of composite decking is the most affordable, you’re not alone. The price ranges for many different brands of composite decking vary greatly. Read on to learn more about Timbertech, All-plastic, and Trex. We’ll also compare costs and other factors for each type of decking. And if you’re still confused, check out our guide to composite decking port macquarie for beginners.
Trex
The price of Trex decking is less than half the cost of wood. The company sources wood from home improvement stores, lumber yards, and manufacturers of stair and railing products. It then grinds the wood into fine particles, blends it with plastic waste, adds pigments and preservatives, and extrudes the mixture into composite planks. The end result is a deck that looks as good as it feels.
Composite decking materials usually cost between $15 and $30 per square foot. These prices include the substructure, decking, and fasteners. However, the extra cost of composite decking is more than offset by the lower maintenance costs. A typical 300-square-foot composite deck project will cost between $12,000 and $15,000.
All-plastic
Newer formulations of composite decking use plastic skin and all-plastic construction. Before, composite decking was sold as a maintenance-free, zero-maintenance material, but this claim has been proven to be misleading. Even the most environmentally-friendly materials are susceptible to damage caused by sunlight, tree sap, and cleaning materials. Additionally, composite decking can develop mildew and other fungi, and requires little to no maintenance once installed.
Composite decking comes in a variety of profiles, making it easy to install and lighter-weight than wood. Different profiles allow you to customize your deck’s look, which determines the speed and cost of installation. Composite decking does not expand and contract like wood, so it does not require additional fasteners. The only maintenance you may need to provide is a thorough cleaning every few years. However, you should still inspect the surface for cracks or breaks.
PVC
When choosing between wood-plastic composite (PVC) and PVC decking, look for the price that best fits your budget and needs. Composite decking is comparatively cheaper than PVC, but the former offers better durability. For the most part, capped PVC outperforms composite, so you should consider investing in capped PVC. In addition, capped composite has a protective finish fused to the surface, so you won’t need to worry about the finish chipping off. There are also various varieties of composite decking planks with grooved or flat edges, hollow cores, and 20-foot lengths, making it easy to find the perfect choice for your outdoor space.
Prices of PVC composite decking vary widely. The most common brands are Trex, Fiberon, and Azek. Depending on the brand, PVC composite decking can cost anywhere from six to seventeen dollars per square foot. PVC composite decking is available in a wide variety of colors, and mid-priced materials are priced about the same as those made from exotic wood. The downside to composite decking is that you can’t stain or paint it, and the price of the mid-range option is $3.00 to three-and-a-half to four dollars per square foot.
Timbertech
While many people wonder whether TimberTech composite decking is the best option for their outdoor living space, the price tag shouldn’t be an issue. In addition to being affordable, this material offers a number of benefits, including superior moisture resistance and a 50-year limited stain and fade warranty. What’s more, you can rest easy knowing that the company will stand behind its product and provide exceptional customer service.
The timbertech composite decking collection includes a variety of colors and patterns, including the popular ‘Antique Leather’ finish. This product also has a multi-tonal finish to create a wood grain look from a distance. Compared to the other brands, TimberTech Pro is more expensive than TimberTech Edge, but its boards have more realistic-looking grain patterns. Additionally, it is easier to find at local retailers. TimberTech is also a fan favorite among consumers, with more colors and collections than its competitors.