Manmade composite material and natural wood can both be used for decking. But, there are some significant differences between them in terms of durability and cost.

Both composite and wood decking require framing with treated wood floor joists to support the decking. Floor joist spacing for a deck will vary depending on the type and thickness of the decking material. Composite decking requires closer-spaced joists than those for wood decking.

When installing wood or composite decking, keep these tips in mind:

  • While wood decking can be screwed or nailed in place, composite decking is almost always screwed down to the deck framing.
  • Depending on the type of composite decking, the screws may be driven through the face of the planks or hidden from sight.
  • When installing wood decking that is still wet with a preservative, butt the boards up tightly together since they will shrink upon drying.
  • Wood decking costs less than composite, but it requires finishing with a sealer or stain after installation, as well as refinishing every few years.
  • Wood decking also has a tendency to warp or crack from exposure to the elements compared to composite material.
  • Both wood and composite decking will need to be cleaned from time to time to remove dirt, stains, and mildew.

Watch the video above to find out more.


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Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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