PVC decking is the highest-performing deck material available, with an impressive lifespan of up to 50 years. Modern PVC decks are designed to imitate the beauty of natural wood grain but without the ongoing maintenance required by traditional wood decks. Read on to learn about the benefits and drawbacks of PVC decking and where to find high-performing PVC deck products.
What is PVC Decking?
PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, decking is an engineered product made from 100% plastic polymers. This fully synthetic decking resists moisture, mold, insects, and other damage more than any other deck material, resulting in the longest-lasting deck on the market. And because it’s entirely made from engineered materials, PVC deck boards can be recycled at the end of their lifespan.
PVC vs. Composite Decking
The two types of engineered deck products to choose between are composite decks and PVC decks. Composite decking is manufactured using a combination of wood fibers and recycled plastic polymers that are extruded to form individual deck boards. Composite decks are more durable than traditional wood decks, but don’t last as long as PVC decks since they do contain some organic material. Find more details in our guide to PVC vs. Composite Decking, or check out our video on engineered decking options.
Advantages of PVC Decking
Engineered to last decades with almost no maintenance, it’s easy to see why PVC decking has become such a popular alternative to other decking options! These are a few of the main benefits of PVC decks:
Most Durable Lifespan
Since PVC decks contain no organic material, they successfully resist damage from moisture, insects, and weathering. It’s the most durable deck material available with high-quality PVC decks lasting multiple decades. For example, TimberTech Advanced PVC Decking has a lifespan of 50+ years with hardly any maintenance needed. And TimberTech capped PVC decking is fully recyclable at the end of its life.
Virtually Maintenance-Free
One of the primary reasons to choose PVC decking over wood decking is because this product is virtually maintenance-free. The only necessary upkeep is occasionally cleaning the deck to prevent dirt and mildew build-up.
PVC deck boards are inherently moisture and insect-resistant, and high-quality PVC decking materials are engineered to maintain their rich color for decades. With no need for sanding, staining, painting, or repairing, a PVC deck is as low-maintenance as it gets.
Maximum Moisture Resistance
Unlike wood decks that are vulnerable to mold and rot from exposure to water, PVC decks are highly resistant to moisture. This is one of the main reasons why PVC decks last so long with hardly any maintenance. A high-quality PVC deck will successfully resist mold and mildew, and it won’t splinter, crack, warp, peel, or rot. Homes situated in humid, rainy environments in particular stand to benefit greatly from a water-resistant deck material.
Maximum Heat Resistance
One of the most practical deck considerations is whether it will get too hot for bare feet in the peak of summer. Compared with wood or composite materials, high-quality PVC is the most heat-resistant decking material available. TimberTech’s PVC deck boards are made with proprietary polymer material and no wood, making them less dense than traditional lumber or decking made from composite material. Less density means the boards absorb and retain less heat.
However, it’s important to note that all types of deck materials will get hot in the sun. If a deck is frequently exposed to full sun, it’s a good idea to go with a light deck color that stays cooler in the summer. Check out our TimberTech color guide to see your options!
Customizable, Realistic Natural Look
Unlike plastic-y PVC decks of the past, modern PVC deck boards from top-tier manufacturers are engineered to achieve a hyperrealistic wood look. TimberTech’s Advanced PVC Decking is available in an extensive selection of wood looks, grain patterns, and natural colors — for the most realistic look possible, even when compared with composite deck boards.
Additionally, high-end PVC, such as TimberTech’s Vintage Collection, can be ordered in multiple widths and installed with custom curves, providing peak design versatility.
Mahogany boards from the TimberTech Advanced PVC Vintage Collection in narrow, standard, and wide widths
It’s also easier to accomplish a seamless deck design with manufactured deck boards that accommodate hidden fasteners. Just be sure to use the manufacturer-recommended fasteners for the specific composite decking product to avoid damaging the boards.
Disadvantages of PVC Decking
Engineered decking has come a long way in the past few decades, in terms of both performance and aesthetics. But before committing to a PVC deck, consider these drawbacks and whether they will impact your project:
High Upfront Cost
A high-quality PVC deck is the most expensive man-made decking option in terms of upfront costs, and is more expensive than many wood decking options as well. However, PVC decks don’t come with any of the maintenance costs of a wood deck and you won’t find yourself paying for a new deck any time soon. A premium PVC deck will last around 50 years — significantly longer than a wood deck and around two decades longer than a quality composite deck.
Low-Quality PVC Looks Unrealistic
Outdated and low-quality decking products have given PVC decks an unfortunate reputation for looking artificial. Compared with the beauty of a natural wood deck, low-quality PVC is a disappointing imitation!
On the other hand, premium quality PVC decking from a top-of-the-line manufacturer like TimberTech achieves a remarkably natural aesthetic with variegated colors. TimberTech combines wire-brushed and hand-scraped wood patterns in their premium polymer decking line for the most real wood look possible.
Poor Quality PVC Decks Fade and Stain Easily
While PVC inherently resists moisture and insects better than organic materials, the lifespan and appearance of a PVC deck will depend greatly on the product quality. A low-quality PVC deck may experience significant fading and staining as it is exposed to the weather. And it’s important to note that any PVC deck is susceptible to staining from contact with other plastic-based products such as mats or pool toys.
Premium PVC decks from TimberTech are made from a proprietary polymer blend that resists fading, staining, and other types of weathering. TimberTech Advanced PVC Decks are also backed by a Lifetime Limited Warranty and a 50-year Fade & Stain Limited Warranty.
Why We Love TimberTech PVC Decks
Mahogany decking from the TimberTech Advanced PVC Vintage Collection with a Classic Composite Series Drink Rail
Ring’s End is proud to sell TimberTech PVC decks due to their outstanding performance. One of the best PVC decking manufacturers in the USA, TimberTech engineers high-quality products designed for both beauty and durability — with a wide range of realistic nature-inspired colors, surface textures, and grain patterns to choose from.
Plus, TimberTech Advanced PVC Decking is backed by industry-best warranties for peace of mind. To learn more, check out our TimberTech product guide or reach out to one of our expert sales representatives! We’ll be happy to help.
Explore TimberTech PVC Decking at Ring’s End
Ring’s End is a trusted retailer of TimberTech products for the Northeast — serving homeowners and builders in Connecticut, Westchester County, NY, and South County, Rhode Island. Visit your local Ring’s End to experience TimberTech decking in person! You can also contact our decking experts through our online chat or by texting (203)-PRO HELP.
We supply a vast selection of deck-building materials, and our experienced team would love to help you find the perfect fit for your project or answer any questions you may have.