Composite decking gives you the look of a beautiful deck without signing up for the maintenance list that comes with traditional wood. But what happens when the sun is blazing, temperatures swing, or the deck gets wet? We asked Deckorators® Elite Certified Pro Sean Collinsgru of Premier Outdoor Living to tackle some of the most common questions about composite decking.
What Is Composite Decking?
Think of composite decking as the best of both worlds: the look of a beautiful wood deck without the never-ending to-do list of staining, sealing and upkeep. We design our composite decking to deliver lasting durability and stable performance, so you can spend more time enjoying your deck and less time maintaining it.
But here’s the thing: not all composite decking is created equal. The materials and technology inside the board can make a big difference in everything from weight and strength to moisture resistance and performance in changing temperatures.
Deckorators patented Surestone® technology, found in Voyage and Summit mineral-based composite decking, delivers an industry-leading strength-to-weight ratio with virtually no thermal expansion or contraction. We also use Surestone technology in our Picture Frame Deck Board and Porch Flooring.
The result? A lightweight, powerful and stable board that doesn’t absorb moisture and features a durable polymer cap designed to resist staining and fading.
We also offer Venture, Altitude, and Vista our wood-plastic composite decking lines. These boards combine wood and plastic and feature a durable polyethylene top layer for ultra-low-maintenance performance.
Does Composite Decking Get Hot?
Yes. Just like concrete, wood decking, or even beach sand, composite decking can get warm in direct sunlight. However, some decking materials are designed to stay more comfortable underfoot than others.
Decking made with Surestone® technology is engineered to reduce heat buildup, helping create a more comfortable surface on sunny days. Its mineral-based construction is designed to stay cooler than many traditional composite decking products, making it a great choice for homeowners who want to spend more time enjoying their deck.
Color can also make a noticeable difference. As Sean Collinsgru puts it:
“Composite decking can get hot, just like anything else that is in direct sunlight, but the biggest factor by far in the temperature of the board is going to be the color.”
If your deck gets a lot of direct sun, keep that in mind when choosing your decking color. Lighter colors may be worth considering if keeping the surface cooler is a priority.
Do Composite Deck Boards Expand or Contract With Hot and Cold Temperatures?
They can—and that’s something to keep in mind when choosing and installing decking. Like most decking materials, composite boards expand and contract as temperatures change. The good news? Our mineral-based composite decking made with Surestone technology has Minimal expansion and contraction, so boards stay straight and gaps stay consistent.
As Sean Collinsgru explains:
“Composite typically expands and contracts quite a lot with temperature swings. The best thing about Deckorators decking made with Surestone technology is that we have found the expansion and contraction to be extremely minimal.”
Pro tip: To help your deck perform as intended, allow the boards to acclimate on-site for 48 hours before installation and reference Deckorators Installation Instructions for proper spacing.
What Are the Differences Between WPC, PVC and MBC Decking?
Here’s where things get a little more interesting. Not all composite decking is made the same. WPC, PVC and MBC use different materials and construction methods, which can affect everything from moisture resistance to weight, strength and stability.
|
Surestone® (MBC) |
PVC |
WPC |
Wood |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Material |
Surestone Mineral-Based Composite Polypropylene + minerals for strength, durability, heat resistance, traction |
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) |
Wood plastic composite (wood + plastic) |
Wood |
|
Confident Footing |
Best |
Better |
Good |
Good |
|
Barefoot Friendly |
Best |
Better |
Good |
Good |
|
Stable Performance |
Best – virtually no expansion or contraction |
Good – expands and contracts the most |
Better – some expansion and contraction |
Good – expands and contracts the most |
|
Installs Anywhere |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
|
Protective Capping |
4 Sides |
4 Sides |
3 Sides |
No |
|
Strength-to-Weight Ratio |
Best |
Better |
Good |
Good |
So, what does that mean in the real world?
“WPC has wood fibers in its core, so it can theoretically absorb moisture. It is also the heaviest of the three. PVC will not absorb any water, but is the most susceptible to expansion and contraction.”
When it comes to MBC, Collinsgru points to its combination of lightweight construction and stability:
“MBC is a great combination of a lightweight board that also heavily resists expansion and contraction.”
Pro tip: Don’t just compare decking by its color or price tag. Take a look at what’s inside the board—that’s where some of the biggest performance differences start.
Which Type of Decking Is Best for Docks and Pool Areas?
When your deck is next to a pool or sitting over the water, things can get a little wet. That makes water resistance and traction especially important when choosing your decking.
As Sean Collinsgru explains:
“In a wet location like a dock or a pool the two best choices would be PVC and MBC because neither will absorb water.”
We especially recommend our decking made with Surestone technology for areas around water. Its confident footing helps provide reliable traction in wet and dry conditions. Plus it’s fully submersible and warranted for installation in the ground or water with virtually no moisture absorption.
“Clients are typically worried about the boards becoming slippery when wet, but with Deckorators that is absolutely no issue.”
How Long Does Composite Decking Last?
One of the biggest perks of composite decking? You’re building for the long haul. With proper installation and care, today’s composite decking can provide decades of outdoor enjoyment.
As Sean Collinsgru puts it:
“Composite decking in today's world will easily have a lifetime of 25-50+ years.”
Of course, how long your deck lasts depends on the material, product, installation, environment, and maintenance. Deckorators Voyage decking comes with the industry's best protection. Backed by a 50-year Structural, 25-year Stain & Fade, and 25-year Removal & Replacement warranty, our durable mineral-based composite decking is designed to perform year after year.
Pro tip: Think beyond the first few years. Choosing a decking product built for long-term performance can help you enjoy your outdoor space for decades to come.
Ready to Start Planning Your Deck?
Take our Deck Match Quiz to get personalized decking and railing recommendations based on your style, budget, and climate. Then connect with a Certified Pro to bring your vision to life.
