Composite Decking Cheat Sheet
Once upon a time, an overwhelming majority of decks were comprised of wood. While wood can still be a wonderful choice, composite decking materials are quickly winning favor with homeowners because of the minimal maintenance they require. If you’re thinking of installing a composite deck on your property, here’s a cheat sheet that can assist you in the decision making process.
What is Composite Decking?
Composite decking consists of a combination of plastic material and wood particles. Many times, the plastic material is made of recycled by-products such as milk jugs, soda bottles and shopping bags.
Why Are Composite Decks Gaining Popularity?
Hands down, composite decking will be less maintenance than a wooden deck because it does not need to be sanded or stained again…ever. Due to their composition, they do not rot and are not a target for termites. 
Hollow vs Solid Composite Deck:
While there are many different manufacturers of composite decking, there is a single differentiating factor between all types of composite decking. That is whether the deck in hollow or solid. What’s the difference? Hollow composite decks are lighter, less expensive and look less like wood, but they do not expand and contact as much as a solid composite deck. Hollow decks are more flexible and are susceptible to damage prior installation. For these reasons, solid composite decks tend to be more popular.
Differences in Types of Composite Decking Materials:
Polyethylene Based:
This is the most cost effective of the three types and is the most popular composite decking type on the market. It most closely imitates the look of wood and can be cut into the longest deck boards.
To learn more about this type, check out Deborah’s composite decking project in St. Paul, MN.
Polypropylene Based:
This type of composite decking is resistant to heat. Furthermore, it does not become distorted when exposed to extended periods of moisture. This type of decking has a shiny appearance.
Polyvinyl Chloride Based:
While this type of deck does not imitate the look of wood, it is lightweight and has the hardest surface of the three. It can become more slippery after a rainfall. It gains favor with homeowners for being more scratch resistant than other types.
