When the harsh winter conditions subside and the summer sun reemerges for the first time, will you have an outdoor space where you can enjoy it? If the answer is no, it would be wise to look into adding a new deck to your backyard. One of these structures will serve as the perfect personal relaxation spot, as well as the best place to host friends and family for summer cookouts. And when you partner with the right team for your deck installation, you’ll find yourself counting down the days until summer each year so that you can take full advantage of the space once again.

Simply put, a deck is a long-term investment that should be enjoyed for decades to come. But not all decks are alike. To benefit from all that a new deck can offer, it’s important to understand your choice of materials. The top decking material options are wood and composite, and while both are incredibly durable and beautiful, they have their differences. Here’s a quick comparison to help you make a confident decision:

Wood Decking

Wood is a traditional decking material that’s preferred for its appearance, warm hues, texture, and unique whorls—it’s the ultimate natural upgrade. While it’s nice to look at and is sturdy, the type of wood you choose for a deck will impact its overall performance, not to mention, its maintenance requirements. On that front, one thing to keep in mind with wood decks is their response to moisture. They absorb water and can be susceptible to warping, splintering, cracking, and rotting over time. As a result, they require regular application of stains and sealers to guard against moisture damage.

Composite Decking

Composite is widely known as a low-maintenance material—it’s a blend of recycled plastic and wood fibers that requires no sanding, refinishing, or staining. This fact alone has helped composite decks quickly grow in popularity. Not only are they easy to care for, but these decks can be designed to mimic the appearance of wood. While they don’t look identical to wood decking, they are not short on aesthetic appeal and can be customized to best suit your preferences.

Determining the Right Decking Material for Your Home—And Your Budget

Oftentimes, big home improvement decisions are made with budget in mind. If you’re looking for a more affordable option in the short term, wood is typically the route to go. However, if you look at the big picture, composite decks tend to pay for themselves within a few years thanks to their lack of maintenance requirements and general durability. So, while you might be paying slightly more up front for a composite deck, it will prove to be a better long-term investment.

Turn to the Experts for the Installation of Your New Composite Deck

When you’re in the market for a new composite deck, Tundraland is the team to call. Our composite decks are American-made, crafted locally in Green Bay, and moisture resistant for superior quality. What’s more, we can install them in just about a day or two. Contact us today to learn more about our deck installation expertise and how we can put it to use at your home.