Real Wood vs. Composite

Fri, 1 Aug 2008

Wood-Plastics composites are made from one of several polymers-poly-ethylenes, polyvinyl chloride, and poly propylene is the three most common-plus finely ground wood flour and a variety of additives that stabilize the plastic and protect it from UV damage.

This medley of materials gives composites several advantages over most species of wood: Installed correctly, they're much less likely to check or crack, and there's no evidence that termites will attack it. Also, it doesn't have to be stained or treated with a preservative. That alone is all some need to here in making their decking decisions.

For the person who is not willing to trade the character and beauty of real wood, there are even more options than ever before. From pressure treated pine to Brazilian hardwoods, each species has its own unique appeal. But with beauty comes sacrifice, all exterior wood products require a maintenance program that includes cleaning and sealing.