As more homeowners discover the benefits of a low-maintenance composite deck, demand for these eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood continues to grow. But with so many brands and models to choose from, how do you know which is best for your needs? This article explores the key factors to consider when evaluating a composite decking brand, including its durability, initial cost, color options, and warranty terms. The best composite decking brands offer superior resistance to fading, staining, and scratching while maintaining their shape and being mold-proof and insect-proof.
Most composites are available in solid or capped styles. Uncapped boards are less expensive but may be more prone to staining because the natural wood fibers remain exposed to rain and sun. More expensive capped composites use a PVC cap to sequester the wood fibers and protect the deck surface, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas that can quickly become stained. They also typically come with a limited fade and stain warranty that lasts up to 50 years.
The best composite decking brands offer a wide selection of colors, textures, and design options to suit any taste. Some offer a mix of earth tones that mimic the look of real wood, while others feature more vibrant hues that can add an on-trend pop to any outdoor space. Most brands also allow you to select the thickness and texture of your decking boards, and whether they are grooved or smooth-surfaced.
Another important factor to keep in mind when choosing a composite decking brand is its slip-resistance. Entry-level composites generally have a smooth surface that can be slippery when wet, but higher quality products are textured for safety and certified to meet an industry standard known as the coefficient of friction, or COF.
A reputable composite decking brand will be well-respected in the industry and backed by a strong warranty. Some of the most trusted names in composite decking include Trex, TimberTech, Fiberon, Azek, and Deckorators.
When evaluating the best composite decking brands, you should look for a product that provides value and return on investment for your specific project needs. Premium options will usually be priced significantly more than entry-level and mid-range options, so it is important to balance quality with your budget.
The most recognizable name in composite decking is Trex, which offers multiple product lines with different features and finishes to suit any home’s aesthetic. The company’s Transcend line, for example, is known for its rich colors and realistic streaking that replicate the beauty of real wood. It is also backed by a limited 25-year residential fade and stain warranty. MoistureShield is another popular and durable option, which is manufactured in the US and backed by a transferable 50-year structural warranty. Its composite decking is splinter-free and insect-proof, and it comes in a wide variety of colors and textures. Its boards can be fastened to joists with screws driven through the face or into clips that are inserted along the edges.