This deck by Archadeck shows the beauty that can be yours with a composite deck.

Composite, PVC and capstock decking materials are fairly new to most of us although they are trusted and true materials in the world of outdoor structures. You may have heard about all of these different types of expensive, fancy and maybe good decking materials, but the dilemma is how does the homeowner make sense of it all?

How to decide?

When selecting a material for your new deck or re-decking needs, the variance in selection can make this task quite daunting. Archadeck of Maryland wants the task of selecting the right material for your individual needs to be an easy and pleasant experience, this is why we have taken the three basic types of decking materials and broken them down to explain the basic components and functions of each group.

Composites ( also known as synthetics) are by far the oldest decking product on the market. Composites have been around for quite a few years, and being the oldest means all, or most, of the “kinks” have been worked out with this product. Over the years we have watched this product improve greatly in appearance as well as durability. Many composites promise the best of everything, from stain resistance to low maintenance and a myriad of other benefits. Because there are now so many choices and options within the realm of composites, we want to quell the fears of the unknown by giving homeowners a simple and concise picture of what these types of decking are and the pros and cons of each.

Composite deck with pergola by Archadeck of Maryland

Composite decking material requires a lot less maintenance than its solid wood counterparts – even those treated with preservatives. Composites can be made to emulate the look of real wood, with wood graining that in a quality composite can rival the real thing. A high quality composite can also inhibit the growth of mold and mildew by the addition of mold inhibitors present in the makeup of the composite.

Composites can be cleaned by simple soap and water cleanup. If stains sit for a period of time, they may take a little more effort to clean. There are many good composite cleaners on the market. As with any deck that contains natural derivatives you will still have to contend with fading, scratching and dirt. Composites, even though they do require maintaining, do no compare with the chore of staining and painting on an annual basis that is necessary with a pressure treated or other entirely wooden deck.

One composite brand we use quite a bit of is Fiberon Professional. Fiberon Professional requires no painting, staining or sealing. It comes in rich colors and is resistant to termites, splinters and decay.

Fiberon Professional color options

TimberTech is another well-known brand of composite decking. Their line offers scratch, stain and fade resistance that carries a 25 year warranty. TimberTech,  like the majority of the leading composite manufacturers has created stunning similarities with the appearance of the composites with wood graining and details that closely resemble the look of real wood. In the case of these quality composites it is like real wood, but even better.

This AZEK deck is accented with a TimberTech radiance rail.

PVC Decking

Cellular PVC decking is very high performance and similarly is most often the more expensive option. PVC decking materials have fade and stain protection through their warranties. PVC is a solid cellular plastic. This makeup creates a non porous and denser decking material. PVC decking only requires minimal maintenance. It will not fade, warp, crack, splinter or stain. PVC is also moisture friendly and is used heavily around pools, spas and as a docking material.

Guardeck Elite PVC decking Maryland

When you think in terms of the price point when choosing any decking material, Archadeck of Maryland urges the homeowner to take the long-term investment into consideration when choosing the material for your deck. PVC has superior protection because of the 25 year stain and fade warranties that some PVC manufacturers offer, but that type of quality does cost a bit more. We really like Guardian Elite decking and use it quite a bit.

GuardDeck Guardian Elite decking Maryland

Guardian Elite decking offers very strong fade, stain and moisture resistance. It does not require any painting, staining or sealing – ever. No splinters. No cracking or rotting. And, it’s resistant to mold, mildew, fungus, moss – and even insects.

Fiberon Horizon is a  product that we have used many times and has proven itself as a superior PVC material. This product uses PermaTech innovation to offer superior stain and fade protection and only requires soap and water cleanup. There are other PVC brands on the market as well such as AZEK and TimberTech XLM just to name a few.

This Fiberon deck is breathtaking when accented by this vinyl pergola.

What is capstock?

Capstock is the newest material on the market. It is made up of a proprietary PVC polymer shell and contains a composite wood and recycled plastic core. It is considered a composite decking material but boasts a durable PVC shell. It is also known as a composite hybrid, as well as being referred to as capstock decking. These products are being backed with some of the best warranties in the business, therefore we expect good things from Capstock products.

Guardian Prestige Deck in Weathered Wood

As far as capstock goes, we really like Guardian Prestige and Fiberon Horizon. The Guardian Prestige line has advanced fade, stain and scratch resistance. Like other composites and capstocks, it requires no painting, staining or sealing. Guardian Prestige has a very nice realistically embossed woodgrain. On top of that, it’s made right here in the USA.

Guardian Prestige Decking Colors

Guardian Prestige comes in four colors: Pewter, Weathered Wood which you see above, Cedar and Walnut.

Another really strong capstock decking material is called Fiberon Horizon. The Fiberon Horizon line offers the look of tropical hardwoods with some of its darker colors including Ipe, Rosewood and Tudor Brown.

Fiberon Horizon color options

If you are considering a deck of composite, PVC or capstock, contact Archadeck of Maryland to help you decide which material is the best for you and your family. Our knowledgeable and talented team can pair you up with the deck of your dreams. Call (301) 926 – 3001 or email us at centralmaryland@archadeck.net