High density hardwood decking species are the low maintenance wood decking materials of choice. The best high density hardwood decking materials available are Ipe decking, Cumaru decking, Garapa decking and Machiche decking.Nov 16, 2011

What is the lowest maintenance decking material?

Choosing the Best Low Maintenance Decking Materials

  • Wood. Despite all the emerging products in the market, wood remains the top choice for decking projects. …
  • Composites. Composite material remarkably increases its value as more homeowners use them for deck projects. …
  • Vinyl. …
  • Aluminum. …
  • Fiber Cement.




Aug 17, 2018

What is the most maintenance free deck?

Modern, low-maintenance deck products like vinyl have become the material of choice for homeowners who don’t want to spend time and money maintaining a wood deck. Wood decks need to be sanded and either painted or stained every few years to keep the wood from deteriorating.

What is the most durable decking material?

Composite decking, from brands such as Trex and TimberTech, is made from a blend of recycled plastic (polyethylene, polypropylene, or PVC) mixed with wood fibers (like wood chips or sawdust). Not only does the durable synthetic material resist warping, it also holds strong against rot and insect infestations.

What kind of decking lasts the longest?

Aluminum and Steel





Aluminum decking is the most expensive out of the deck material and will last the longest with a lifespan of 30+ years. Steel decking can have a lifespan of 60+ years when correctly installed by a professional builder.

Does composite decking need maintenance?

People who choose composite decking as their material get to spend more time enjoying their decks and less time maintaining them. Although this decking material is considered low maintenance, it does occasionally require maintenance and cleaning.

Is composite decking really maintenance free?

Composite Decking

For starters, composite decks are nearly maintenance-free. They don’t typically need sanding, sealing or staining. They do, however, require semiannual cleaning, which consists of a soapy water mixture and a low power washer or soft bristle brush.

What are the disadvantages of composite decking?



Cons of Composite Decking

  • A pricey alternative to wood. Durability comes at a cost, as composite decking is more expensive than wood. …
  • Composites aren’t natural. …
  • Composite decks aren’t completely maintenance free. …
  • You’ll need to comparison shop.

Which decking is best?

Here’s a look at the best decking materials worth considering.

  • 1) Composite Decking. …
  • 2) Natural Softwood Timber Decking. …
  • 3) Hardwood. …
  • 4) Thermowood. …
  • 5) PVC Decking. …
  • 6) Aluminium. …
  • Factors to Consider When Choosing Decking Material.


Aug 1, 2019

What is the lifespan of composite decking?

between 25 and 30 years

Composite decking requires minimal upkeep and can last between 25 and 30 years. On average, plastic decking has a similar lifespan to composite decking and can last nearly 30 years.

What are the disadvantages of Trex decking?

Trex Decking Problems – Disadvantages of Composite Decking

  • Mold and Mildew on Composite Decking.
  • Removing Snow or Ice from Composite Decking.
  • Color Fading on Composite Decking.
  • Trex Decking is Flaking.
  • Dealing with Static Electricity.
  • Chalk Line Residue.
  • Tannins on Trex Decking.
  • Damaged Decking.

What are the problems with Trex decking?



Many Trex deck owners have complained of flaking, deterioration and even in extreme cases virtual disintegration of their Trex decks. It seems that under some conditions the coating seal placed on Trex composite decking can fail, exposing it to the elements.

Does composite decking get slippery when wet?

Most composite decking is slippery compared to wood decking when wet. The polymer cap of the decking repelling the water, creating potential slipping hazards. There are some notable composite decking exceptions, that provide excellent traction both when wet and dry.

Will dogs scratch Trex decking?

There are three main ways to stop your dog from scratching the deck: make your dog wear booties, change your deck material, or train your pooch. Trex and composite decking will still scratch, but will show the scratches less visibly than treated wood decking.

Is Trex worth the cost?

Yes, worth it!



Yes, composite materials on decking and trim are worth the money. The labor to install composite is the same as the labor to install wood, which will rot and require a lot of maintenance. For example, the labor to replace a deck with Trex or wood might both be $4000.

What is the difference between PVC decking and composite decking?

What’s the Difference? PVC decking is made from 100% recycled plastic while composite decking, is made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic products. Both products feature a “cap,” which is an extra, added layer of protection that helps make them more durable and longer-lasting.

What are the problems with PVC decking?

Certain PVC decking products are prone to peeling, staining, deteriorating, and mold accumulation after relatively short periods of time. Some of the PVC decking subject to these complaints is manufactured by AZEC, TimberTech, and Wolf Home Products.

Is vinyl decking better than composite decking?

When comparing artificial decking materials, PVC comes out on top as the deck boards that are less susceptible to the scratches that damage composite boards. Plus, while any material left in the sun will show fading, vinyl is also better protected against color fading than composite.