Choosing the right decking material is one of the most crucial decisions homeowners face when planning a new outdoor living space. As we’ve seen through hundreds of deck installations across Canada, the debate between composite and PVC decking continues to be a hot topic among our clients. Both composite and PVC decking offer superior longevity and lower maintenance requirements compared to traditional wood, but they differ significantly in composition, performance, and cost.
We’ve installed both materials in various Canadian climates, from the humid summers of Ontario to the harsh winters of Alberta, and have gained valuable insights into how each performs over time. Composite decking, made from a blend of wood fibres and recycled plastics, offers a more natural wood-like appearance and feel, while PVC decking provides unmatched resistance to moisture and staining.
Our experience has shown that the right choice ultimately depends on your specific priorities—whether you’re focused on authentic aesthetics, maximum durability, budget constraints, or environmental considerations. In this comparison, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision for your home.
Key Takeaways
- Composite decking offers a more wood-like appearance and feel at a lower cost, while PVC provides superior moisture resistance and requires less maintenance.
- Climate considerations should heavily influence your choice, as PVC outperforms in extremely wet environments while composite excels in more temperate Canadian conditions.
- Both options represent significant investments but offer exceptional long-term value through durability, low maintenance, and warranties ranging from 25-50 years.
Understanding Composite and PVC Decking Materials
Choosing the right decking material is crucial for longevity, appearance, and maintenance requirements. Composite and PVC decking represent two popular synthetic alternatives to traditional wood, each with distinct properties and manufacturing processes that affect their performance.
Definition of Composite Decking
Composite decking combines wood fibres (typically recycled sawdust or wood chips) with plastic materials to create a durable decking product. The wood-plastic ratio typically ranges from 40:60 to 70:30, depending on the manufacturer and intended use.
This blend offers homeowners the natural look of wood without many of its drawbacks. Composites resist rotting, splintering, and insect damage—problems commonly associated with traditional lumber.
Most composite decking products contain recycled materials, making them an environmentally friendly choice. Brands like Trex, TimberTech, and Fiberon dominate the Canadian market, each offering various textures, colours, and price points.
Definition of PVC Decking
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking is a fully synthetic decking material containing no organic content. This all-plastic composition makes it completely impervious to moisture, mould, and insect damage.
Unlike composite products, PVC decking won’t absorb water or swell when exposed to moisture, making it ideal for wet environments like pool surrounds or lakefront properties. PVC tends to be lighter than composite materials, which can make installation easier.
Most modern PVC decking features UV inhibitors and fade-resistant technologies to prevent colour deterioration in our harsh Canadian climate. Premium brands like AZEK, Veka, and Wolf offer PVC decking with embossed wood grain patterns that convincingly mimic natural timber.
Composition and Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process significantly influences the performance characteristics of both materials. Composite decking undergoes extrusion, where wood fibres and plastic are heated, mixed, and forced through dies to create uniform boards.
Some manufacturers employ a co-extrusion process, adding a protective polymer shell around the composite core. This “capped composite” offers enhanced stain, scratch, and fade resistance compared to uncapped varieties.
PVC decking production involves a similar extrusion process but uses only virgin or recycled PVC pellets without organic material. Advanced manufacturing techniques create cellular PVC with an internal air pocket structure, reducing weight while maintaining strength.
Both materials come in hollow and solid profiles. Hollow boards are lighter and generally less expensive, while solid boards offer superior strength and a more wood-like sound underfoot. In Canada’s freeze-thaw climate, we recommend solid boards for their improved dimensional stability.
Durability and Longevity Comparisons
When comparing decking materials, understanding their long-term performance helps homeowners make informed investments. Both composite and PVC options offer significant advantages over traditional wood, but they differ in specific performance areas.
Life Span of Composite vs. PVC Decking
Composite decking typically lasts 25-30 years with proper maintenance. Made from a blend of wood fibres and plastic, these boards provide excellent durability for most Canadian climates. The wood content does make them somewhat susceptible to moisture absorption over time.
PVC decking outperforms composite in longevity, often lasting 30-50 years. This fully synthetic material doesn’t contain organic components that can break down over time. We’ve installed PVC decks that show minimal signs of aging even after decades of use.
Many manufacturers offer warranties that reflect these differences. Composite warranties typically range from 25-30 years, while PVC warranties often extend to 50 years. This difference in warranty coverage directly correlates to the expected lifespan of each material.
Resistance to Weather and Environmental Conditions
Canadian weather presents unique challenges for decking materials. Composite decking performs well in most conditions but can show some weaknesses:
- Temperature fluctuations: May expand and contract more than PVC
- Heavy moisture: Can absorb some water, potentially leading to mould in humid areas
- Freeze-thaw cycles: Moderate resistance, but may show wear faster than PVC
PVC decking excels in harsh weather conditions with superior resistance to:
- Extreme cold: Maintains structural integrity even in northern provinces
- Heavy precipitation: 100% waterproof with no absorption issues
- UV exposure: Highly resistant to fading from sun exposure
We’ve observed that PVC performs exceptionally well in lakefront properties and areas with extreme seasonal changes. Composite works best in covered or partially shaded locations where moisture and direct sun exposure are reduced.
Maintenance Requirements Over Time
Composite decking requires moderate maintenance that typically includes:
- Semi-annual cleaning with soap and water
- Prompt removal of debris to prevent staining
- Occasional deeper cleaning to remove mould in humid areas
- Potential resealing every 2-3 years depending on the product
PVC decking offers the lowest maintenance profile:
- Simple cleaning with soap and water when visibly dirty
- No need for sanding, staining, or sealing
- Resistant to stains from food, drinks, and sunscreen
- Easy removal of surface dirt with standard household cleaners
Both materials eliminate the need for the annual sanding and staining required by traditional wood decks. In our experience, homeowners with busy lifestyles particularly appreciate PVC’s minimal upkeep requirements, while those who don’t mind occasional maintenance find composite perfectly manageable.
Aesthetics and Design Flexibility
When selecting decking materials, the visual appeal and design possibilities are often just as important as durability and maintenance considerations. Both composite and PVC options have evolved significantly to meet homeowners’ aesthetic expectations.
Colour and Texture Options
Composite decking comes in a wide spectrum of colours, from rich browns and warm reds to cool greys and charcoal tones. Most manufacturers offer 10-15 standard colours, with some premium lines featuring multi-chromatic streaking to mimic exotic hardwoods. The textures available range from smooth finishes to deeply embossed wood grain patterns.
PVC decking typically offers fewer colour options—usually 6-10 choices per manufacturer. However, the colours tend to be more fade-resistant than composite options. Many PVC products feature a “cap stock” layer that provides enhanced colour stability and durability.
We’ve noticed that while composite decking colours tend to weather slightly over time, developing a more natural patina, PVC colours generally remain more consistent throughout the deck’s life. This is an important consideration for those seeking long-term colour stability.
Customization Capabilities
Composite materials offer excellent workability, similar to natural wood. They can be curved through heating for unique designs, cut with standard woodworking tools, and easily integrated with special features like built-in lighting or custom borders.
PVC decking provides even greater flexibility for customization. It can be heated and bent to create dramatic curves and patterns without risk of delamination. Many of our clients appreciate how PVC can be thermoformed on-site to accommodate unique design elements.
Both materials accept hidden fastening systems for a clean appearance. However, PVC’s lighter weight makes it slightly easier to work with when creating complex designs or inlays. We often recommend PVC for projects requiring intricate patterns or curved features.
Mimicking Natural Wood
Today’s composite decking has become remarkably successful at replicating the look of natural wood. Advanced manufacturing techniques create realistic wood grain patterns, complete with knots and variable streaking. Some premium lines even incorporate multiple colours within each board for an authentic appearance.
PVC decking has made similar advances but often has a slightly more uniform appearance. The best PVC products incorporate embossed grain patterns and colour variations, though discerning eyes can sometimes still distinguish them from natural wood or composite alternatives.
Both materials are available in board widths ranging from traditional 5¼” to wider 7¼” planks that resemble premium hardwood flooring. We’ve found that darker colours with pronounced grain patterns tend to look most like natural wood, regardless of whether composite or PVC material is selected.
Installation Considerations
Installing a new deck is a major project that requires careful planning and execution. The material you choose significantly impacts the installation process, timeline, and overall cost of your project.
Ease of Installation
Composite decking generally weighs more than PVC, which can make it slightly more challenging to manoeuvre during installation. We’ve found that PVC boards are typically 30-40% lighter than comparable composite options, reducing installer fatigue on larger projects.
PVC decking often comes with more flexible properties that allow for easier bending and shaping around curves. This flexibility is particularly valuable for projects with rounded edges or unique design elements.
Composite materials, while heavier, usually offer more stability during installation. They tend to experience less thermal expansion and contraction than PVC boards, which means fewer concerns about gapping during installation in varying temperatures.
Both materials can be cut with standard woodworking tools, though PVC tends to produce finer dust that requires proper protection.
Tools and Techniques Required
Installation of both decking types requires similar basic tools: circular saw, drill, driver bits, tape measure, and safety equipment. We recommend using carbide-tipped saw blades specifically designed for composite/PVC materials to prevent melting and ensure clean cuts.
Temperature considerations are critical when installing synthetic decking. Both materials should be acclimated to the installation environment for 24-48 hours before installation begins.
For cutting PVC decking, we find that slower saw speeds help prevent melting at cut points. Composite boards tend to be more forgiving in this regard.
Proper spacing between boards is essential for both materials. PVC typically requires slightly more expansion room (about 3-4mm) than composite (2-3mm) due to its higher thermal expansion rate.
Hidden Fasteners vs. Traditional Screws
Most premium composite and PVC decking systems now offer proprietary hidden fastener options. These clip systems create a smooth, fastener-free surface that many homeowners prefer for aesthetic and safety reasons.
Traditional face-screwing remains an option for both materials but requires pre-drilling to prevent splitting or mushrooming around screw heads. We recommend using colour-matched screws specifically designed for synthetic decking.
Hidden fastener systems typically add $2.50-$4.00 per square foot to your project cost but provide a cleaner finished appearance and improved comfort for bare feet.
PVC decking often features more sophisticated groove designs that accommodate a wider range of hidden fastener systems. Composite options sometimes have limitations based on their specific composition.
Installation with hidden fasteners generally takes 15-20% longer than face-screwing but delivers superior long-term results.
Cost Analysis
Understanding the financial aspects of both composite and PVC decking is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your budget and long-term goals. The price difference between these materials can be significant both upfront and over time.
Initial Investment
When we look at the initial costs, composite and PVC decking are both considerably more expensive than traditional pressure-treated wood. Composite decking typically ranges from $4.50 to $13 per square foot, while PVC decking runs higher at $7 to $15 per square foot.
Installation costs remain relatively similar between the two materials, but both require specific fasteners and systems that can add to your project budget.
For a standard 16′ x 20′ deck (320 square feet), here’s a cost breakdown:
| Material | Cost per sq ft | Total Material Cost | Installation | Total Project |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | $4.50-$13 | $1,440-$4,160 | $3,200-$5,600 | $4,640-$9,760 |
| PVC | $7-$15 | $2,240-$4,800 | $3,200-$5,600 | $5,440-$10,400 |
The price variance depends on brand quality, colour options, and texture finish.
Long-Term Costs and Value
While the upfront investment for both composite and PVC decking is higher than wood, the long-term value proposition is compelling. Traditional wood decks require staining, sealing, and refinishing every 1-3 years, costing roughly $300-$600 annually when accounting for materials and labour.
Composite decking needs occasional cleaning but may show fading after 10-15 years. Some lower-quality composites might require refinishing or replacement of boards after this period.
PVC decking typically offers the longest lifespan with minimal maintenance costs—just regular cleaning with soap and water. Many PVC products carry 50-year warranties, compared to 25-30 years for most composites.
We’ve found that homeowners recoup about 65-75% of their composite or PVC deck investment when selling their homes, compared to 55-65% for pressure-treated wood decks. This improved ROI plus reduced maintenance makes the higher initial cost more palatable for many Canadian homeowners.
Environmental Impact
Choosing the right decking material significantly affects your ecological footprint. Both composite and PVC options have environmental advantages and drawbacks that homeowners should carefully consider before making their decision.
Sustainability Aspects of Materials
Composite decking typically contains recycled materials, with many brands using up to 95% recycled content including plastic bags, sawdust, and wood fibre. This repurposing helps divert waste from landfills while reducing demand for virgin timber. We’ve observed that manufacturers like Trex use nearly 136 million kilograms of recycled plastic annually in their production.
PVC decking, however, is petroleum-based and requires more energy to produce. Though it doesn’t contain wood fibres, which eliminates the need for harvesting trees, the manufacturing process releases more greenhouse gases compared to composite options.
Both materials last 25-30 years on average, significantly longer than traditional wood decking. This longevity means fewer replacements and less material consumption over time.
Recyclability of Decking Products
Composite decking presents challenges for recycling at the end of its lifecycle. The blend of wood and plastic makes separation difficult, and many recycling facilities aren’t equipped to process these mixed materials. Some manufacturers offer take-back programs, but these aren’t widely available across Canada.
PVC decking holds an advantage here as it’s technically 100% recyclable. When removed, PVC boards can be processed and transformed into new products. However, we must note that recycling rates remain disappointingly low due to collection limitations.
Neither option biodegrades naturally, which presents disposal concerns. Both materials will persist in landfills for decades if not properly recycled. For environmentally conscious homeowners, we recommend researching whether local manufacturers offer reclamation programs before making your final decision.
Performance Under Foot Traffic
Foot traffic performance is a critical factor to consider when comparing composite and PVC decking materials for your home. Both options offer distinct advantages when it comes to daily wear and resistance to the elements.
Surface Texture and Slip Resistance
Composite decking typically features a wood-grain texture that provides natural slip resistance for safer walking conditions. This texture helps maintain traction even when the surface becomes wet from rain or pool water. Most modern composites now include enhanced slip-resistant technology in their outer cap layer.
PVC decking, by comparison, often has a smoother finish but manufacturers compensate by engineering specific surface patterns. Many premium PVC boards feature embossed textures that mimic natural wood while providing excellent grip.
We’ve found that both materials perform well in this category, but there are differences worth noting:
- Composite tends to maintain its texture longer under heavy foot traffic
- PVC generally requires less maintenance to preserve its slip resistance
- Both materials vastly outperform natural wood in wet conditions
Heat Retention in Direct Sunlight
One significant difference between these materials is their thermal properties. Composite decking, particularly darker colours, can become quite hot when exposed to direct summer sunlight. The wood fibres in composite tend to absorb and retain heat, sometimes making the surface uncomfortable for bare feet.
PVC decking typically stays cooler in direct sun, though it’s not immune to heat retention. The all-plastic construction reflects more sunlight than composite alternatives. Newer PVC products often incorporate cooling technologies that dissipate heat more effectively.
We recommend considering colour choices carefully regardless of material:
- Lighter colours retain less heat in both materials
- Some premium lines offer specialized cooling technology
- Shaded areas significantly reduce heat concerns for both options
Warranty and Manufacturer Support
Understanding the warranty coverage and after-sale support for your decking investment can save you significant headaches and expenses down the road. Manufacturers of both composite and PVC decking typically offer warranties that reflect their confidence in their products.
Comparing Manufacturer Warranties
Most premium composite decking manufacturers offer tiered warranty protection, with structural warranties ranging from 25-50 years and stain/fade warranties of 25-30 years. Trex, TimberTech, and Fiberon lead the pack with their comprehensive coverage.
PVC decking often comes with similar or slightly better warranties. Many PVC manufacturers like Azek and Wolf offer limited lifetime structural warranties and 30-50 year fade and stain protection. This longer coverage reflects PVC’s inherent resistance to moisture damage.
We’ve noticed that warranty terms vary significantly based on product tier. Entry-level products typically have shorter coverage periods than premium lines. Here’s a quick comparison:
Warranty Comparison:
| Decking Type | Structural Warranty | Fade/Stain Warranty |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Composite | 25-50 years | 25-30 years |
| Premium PVC | Limited Lifetime | 30-50 years |
| Entry-Level Composite | 15-25 years | 10-25 years |
Always read the fine print! Most warranties have specific maintenance requirements and transfer limitations.
Availability of Customer Service
In our experience, the level of customer service varies dramatically between manufacturers. Larger companies like Trex, TimberTech, and Azek maintain dedicated support teams that include technical advisors and warranty specialists.
Many premium manufacturers offer:
- 24/7 online resources and FAQs
- Toll-free support lines
- Dedicated contractor hotlines
- Regional representatives for on-site consultations
Smaller or budget manufacturers might provide more limited support options. We’ve found that local availability of manufacturer representatives can make a significant difference when warranty claims arise.
Customer service responsiveness is often overlooked during purchase decisions. We recommend checking online reviews specifically focused on warranty claim experiences before making your final decision. Companies with Canadian offices or representatives typically provide faster resolution for Canadian customers.
Both composite and PVC manufacturers have improved their support systems over the past decade, recognizing that customer satisfaction drives repeat business and referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Making an informed decision between PVC and composite decking requires understanding specific differences in cost, performance, and maintenance. These insights will help you determine which material best suits your project needs, budget constraints, and lifestyle preferences.
What are the cost differences between PVC and composite decking materials?
PVC decking typically costs 10-15% more than composite options, with prices ranging from $8.50 to $12.00 per square foot compared to composite’s $7.00 to $10.00 range. This price difference reflects PVC’s manufacturing process and enhanced performance characteristics.
The total project cost involves more than just materials. Installation expenses remain similar for both options, but the long-term value proposition differs.
When calculating your deck investment, we recommend considering the lifetime cost rather than just initial outlay. PVC’s longer lifespan and reduced maintenance requirements often offset its higher upfront cost over 20+ years of ownership.
How does PVC decking respond to high temperatures compared to composite materials?
PVC decking can become noticeably warmer than composite in direct sunlight, sometimes reaching temperatures 5-8°C higher. This heat retention might make barefoot walking uncomfortable during peak summer days in many Canadian regions.
Light-coloured PVC options help mitigate this issue by reflecting rather than absorbing sunlight. Some manufacturers now incorporate heat-dissipating technology in premium PVC lines.
Composite decking typically maintains more moderate surface temperatures due to its wood content. This natural component helps regulate heat absorption and provides a more comfortable surface during hot weather.
Are there common issues associated with PVC decking that homeowners should consider?
PVC decking can experience expansion and contraction with temperature fluctuations, requiring proper installation with appropriate spacing. Without correct gapping, boards may buckle or warp during seasonal changes.
Some homeowners report that PVC decking can produce a hollow sound when walked upon, particularly with lightweight constructions. Proper joist spacing and using PVC products with reinforced cores can minimize this issue.
Older PVC decking formulations were prone to fading and chalking over time. Modern products have largely overcome these problems with enhanced UV inhibitors and protective caps.
Which decking material offers the best durability, PVC or composite?
PVC decking generally offers superior resistance to moisture, mould, and mildew compared to composite options. Its non-porous structure prevents water absorption, making it ideal for pool surroundings or properties in humid regions.
Composite decking provides better resistance to scratching and daily wear. The wood fibres in composite materials create a denser product that withstands furniture movement and pet traffic more effectively.
Both materials significantly outperform traditional wood in terms of splitting, cracking, and warping resistance. PVC typically carries longer warranties (often 50 years versus 25-30 for composites), reflecting manufacturers’ confidence in its longevity.
What are the maintenance requirements for PVC versus composite decking?
PVC decking requires minimal maintenance—typically just occasional cleaning with soap and water. Its non-porous surface prevents staining and allows for easy removal of spills without special cleaners.
Composite decking needs slightly more attention, particularly for food stains and grease spots. While still low-maintenance, composites benefit from prompt cleaning of spills and semi-annual deep cleaning to prevent organic build-up.
Neither material requires sanding, staining, or sealing—a significant advantage over wood decking. We’ve found that PVC saves approximately 8-10 hours of maintenance annually compared to wood, while composite saves 6-8 hours.
How do the aesthetic and finish options compare between PVC and composite decking products?
Composite decking excels in mimicking natural wood grain patterns and textures. The inclusion of actual wood fibres creates authentic variations and a more organic appearance that many homeowners prefer.
PVC offers increasingly realistic wood-like finishes with improved embossing techniques. Modern PVC products feature multi-tonal colouring and textured surfaces that closely resemble premium hardwoods.
Colour retention tends to be superior with PVC products, especially in areas with intense UV exposure. While both materials have improved their fade resistance, PVC typically maintains its original appearance longer without noticeable colour shifting.