When getting a new deck, you’ll keep hearing about dozens of material choices that at first sight, they don’t look so different. Vinyl deck material, PVC deck material, composite decking, and, well, the most basic of all, wood decking.
While there’s no doubt what wood decking is, some homeowners might have a hard time deciding whether vinyl, PVC, or composite is better for their needs.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything there is to know about the vinyl deck material, its pros and cons, and what other alternative might be suited for your upcoming deck building project.
Let’s begin!
What Is Vinyl Deck Material
Vinyl deck material is a kind of material that is used to make decks. It is made out of vinyl, which is a type of plastic. This plastic is then made into planks that are used to build the deck.
This type of material is becoming more popular because it is very durable and easy to take care of. It does not rot like wood, and it does not get as hot in the sun. This makes it a good choice for people who want a deck that will last for a long time.
Vinyl deck material is also easy to install. It comes in planks that fit together like a puzzle. You do not have to worry about staining or painting it, and it does not require a lot of maintenance.
If you are thinking about getting a new deck, then you should definitely consider vinyl deck material. It has many benefits and it is very easy to take care of.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Vinyl Deck Material?
Now that you know what vinyl deck material is, it’s time to learn about its pros and cons. This way, you can decide if it’s the right choice for your needs.
Here are the pros and cons of vinyl deck material:
Pros Of Vinyl Deck Material:
- It is very durable. It does not rot like wood, and it is not affected by insects.
- It is easy to take care of. You do not have to stain or paint it, and it does not require a lot of maintenance.
- It is easy to install. The planks fit together like a puzzle, and you do not need any special tools to do it.
- It is very affordable. It is cheaper than most other decking materials, and it will last for many years.
- Vinyl decks are made to last over 30 years with the right maintenance.
Cons of vinyl deck material:
- Vinyl is essentially a type of plastic, so it can get very hot in the sun. If you live in a hot climate, then you might want to choose a different type of decking material.
- It is not as strong as some other materials. If you are planning on using your deck for heavy duty activities, then you might want to choose a different material.
- Some vinyl products sag and need a complex support system before the decking material may be put down.
- Vinyl decking may be customized in a variety of colors, but it is difficult to make it appear natural compared to composite or wood.
As you can see, there are both pros and cons to using vinyl deck material. It is up to you to decide if it is the right choice for your needs. Here at Deck Bros, we love using TimberTech decking.
What Are the Alternatives Of Vinyl Deck Material?
If you decide that vinyl deck material is not right for you, then there are plenty of other options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular alternatives:
- Composite decking: Composite deck boards are a mixture of wood and plastic. It is very strong and durable, and it requires minimum maintenance. It's one of the best deck materials for homeowners tired of keeping up with the maintenance of wooden decks.
- PVC decking: This material is made from 100% plastic, and it's very similar to vinyl decking materials. It is very strong and durable, but it can get very hot in the sun.
- Wood decking: Wood decks are traditional outdoor structures, very common for homeowners that are getting their first deck. They look great, as they have the natural wood grain, but wood deck boards require constant maintenance to be kept at its best.
Final Thoughts
Vinyl deck material is a great choice for people who want a durable and easy-to-maintain deck. It is also very affordable, and it comes in a variety of colors and styles. However, compared to composite decking, vinyl lacks a very important characteristic.
With vinyl deck material, it is difficult to achieve a natural look for your decking surface.
If you are looking for an alternative to vinyl deck material, then there are plenty of other options to choose from.
Here at Deck Bros, we recommend TimberTech composite decking because it’s always available to buy straight from the shelf, its shipping is predictable, the price is reasonable, and its quality is great. Ultimately, the decision of which material to use for your deck is up to you.
Call your local experts from Deck Bros if you want to make sure you’re making the right option for your decking surface. We offer professional deck building services in Omaha, Papillion, Bellevue, and surrounding areas.