1. Material Composition:
Composite Decking:
- Made from wood fibers (such as wood flour or recycled wood) and plastic (usually polyethylene or polypropylene).
- This blend gives it a more natural wood-like appearance with some of the benefits of plastic, such as durability and resistance to rot.
PVC Decking:
- Made entirely from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of plastic. There are no wood fibers in the product.
- PVC decking is 100% synthetic and often lighter than composite decking due to the absence of wood.
2. Appearance:
Composite Decking:
- More closely mimics the look and feel of natural wood due to its wood content.
- It may come with texture and grain patterns that resemble real wood.
PVC Decking:
- While newer versions of PVC decking offer realistic wood-grain looks, it generally has a more synthetic appearance than composite.
- It typically retains its colour better over time compared to composite decking and does not fade as much.
3. Durability:
Composite Decking:
- Highly durable, resistant to rot, insects, and mildew, thanks to the plastic component.
PVC Decking:
- Extremely durable and more resistant to stains, and scratches compered to composite decking.
4. Maintenance:
Composite Decking:
- Requires less maintenance than traditional wood but might still need periodic cleaning.
- Over time, some composite decks may experience slight fading and staining.
PVC Decking:
- Virtually maintenance-free and easy to clean. It doesn't require staining, sealing, or painting.
- Less prone to staining or fading compared to composite.
5. Cost:
Composite Decking:
- Generally less expensive than PVC decking but more expensive than traditional wood decking.
PVC Decking:
- Typically more expensive than composite decking because of the advanced manufacturing processes involved and the higher durability.
6. Weight:
Composite Decking:
- Heavier than PVC decking due to the combination of wood fibers and plastic.
PVC Decking:
- Lighter because it's made purely from plastic, which can make installation easier.
7. Environmental Impact:
Composite Decking:
- Often made from recycled materials (both wood and plastic), making it a more eco-friendly option.
PVC Decking:
- While PVC decking is recyclable, it is made from non-renewable resources (fossil fuels) and may not be as environmentally friendly as composite decking in terms of raw materials used.
8. Heat Retention:
Composite Decking:
- Can retain heat in direct sunlight, which might make it uncomfortable to walk barefoot during hot days.
PVC Decking:
- Often retains more heat than composite decking, making it hotter to the touch.
Summary:
- Composite decking: Offers a balance between the look of wood and the durability of plastic, with moderate maintenance requirements and reasonable cost.
- PVC decking: More durable, lower maintenance, and less prone to staining, but at a higher cost and with a more synthetic appearance.