Replacing Your Wood Deck with a Composite Deck

Thinking about ditching your old wood deck for a new composite one? It might be the best home improvement decision you ever make. Wood decks are classic, but they come with a long list of maintenance headaches. Composite decks are an attractive alternative, boasting durability, ease of care, and stunning good looks. Here’s everything you need to know about wood decks vs. composite decks before making the switch.

What is Deck Resurfacing?

If the underlying structure of your existing deck is sound, you could be a good candidate for deck resurfacing. This involves replacing the surface boards of your deck without tearing down the entire structure, saving you time and money. This can be done with traditional wood planks or modern composite materials. While both options can refresh your outdoor space, composite decking is the more popular choice, and with good reason.

Drawbacks of Wood Decks

Wood decking looks great and generally costs less upfront than composite decking, but maintaining it can be a pain. Here’s why:

• Upkeep: Wood needs regular scraping, sanding, staining, and sealing to prevent weather damage.
• Durability: Wood can warp, splinter, and rot when exposed to extreme weather for years on end, forcing you to replace boards more often than you’d like.
• Pests: Termites and other insects are attracted to wood, resulting in damage if not treated regularly.

Benefits of Composite Decks

Switching to a composite deck saves you time, money, and a whole lot of hassle. Consider these benefits:

• Low maintenance: Unlike wood, composite decking doesn’t require staining. The occasional rinse from a garden hose keeps it looking fresh.
• Longevity: Wondering how long composite decks last? The average lifespan is 25 to 30 years with minimal upkeep. That’s a lot of summers to spend enjoying your deck instead of repairing it.
• Durability: Composite material for decks is resistant to warping, splintering, and rotting. Plus, pests aren’t interested in it.
• Aesthetics: Composite decks come in numerous colors and finishes, making it easy to match your deck to your home’s exterior.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Composite Decking

Here are a few things to consider before taking the leap:

• Investment: How much do composite decks cost? They’re generally more expensive upfront than wood, but the reduced maintenance and longer lifespan make up the difference.
• Installation: Composite boards are often heavier and require different tools and fasteners than wood. Make sure your installer is familiar with composite decking to avoid any hiccups.
• Environmental impact: Many composite decks are made from recycled plastic and wood fibers, making them more eco-friendly than cutting down trees to build wood decks.
• Aesthetics: Composite decks come in many styles, but the material can’t be sanded or refinished. Make your selection carefully because you won’t be able to change the look without resurfacing your deck again.

Resurface Your Deck in Southeast Wisconsin

At Two Day Painting, we know that having a beautiful, functional outdoor space is important to you. That’s why we specialize in helping Waukesha homeowners make the best choice for their deck resurfacing projects. Our excellent project management, open communication, and quick turnaround times ensure a smooth experience from start to finish. Ready to transform your deck? Call us at 262-312-2182 or fill out our online contact form for a free estimate.