What is Composite Decking?

Composite Decking Questions we get most:

  • What is Composite?

  • Why is it better for your deck than wood?

  • How much more does it cost than wood?

  • Are all composite materials the same?

  • What is PVC?

Definition of composite

Composite Decking Ingredients:

  • Wood: Wood particles like sawdust, wood chips, and wood fiber pieces 

  • Plastic: Virgin or recycled plastic materials, such as polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or polyethylene (PE) 

  • Additives: Stabilizers, UV damage protectors, and colorants 

  • Coating (HDPE) High-density polyethylene

Trex Deck with Harmony railing

Composite Decking

  • No power washing. A garden house when it gets dirty is more than enough.

  • No Sanding ever

  • No Staining ever

  • 25 year warranty

  • Deck frame lasts almost 30 years

  • Color choices

  • Design choices

  • Long lasting

  • Low maintenance

Wood Deck

Wood Decking

  • Sand and stain yearly

  • Frame will only last fifteen years

  • material is subject to twisting and bending

  • splinters

  • sanding

  • powerwashing

  • 40 hours per year of maintenance

  • $120/square foot maintenance cost

While wood is still the most popular and inexpensive choice for decking in North America, it is slowly becoming less and less cost effective. Because treated framing wood can no longer be made from harmful materials, it will not last more than 10-15 years without needing to be repaired or replaced. And if you want your deck boards to last that long you will need to power wash, strip, sand, and re-stain them every year. That is approximately 40 hours of work. Every year x’s 15 years, only to be replaced or tolerated after that.


Composite was just the beginning…Mineral and PVC are the future.

Deckorators Venture Mineral based composite

Deckorators is a great example of the innovative technology involved in making your deck and outdoor living space completely maintenance-free.

This exceptional combination of mineral (crushed stone) and recycled plastic not only offers durability that will outlive you, but it also provides a pleasant, cool surface to walk on during the hot summer days. Additionally, this material never needs to be power washed, sanded, or stained, greatly reducing your upkeep efforts. It even comes with a generous 30-year fade and stain guarantee, ensuring long-lasting beauty. At Divergent, we are so confident in the performance of this product that we proudly offer a THREE-year hassle-free warranty for added peace of mind.

Pvc Decking by Wolf

PVC Decking: A Comparison of Wolf vs Azek

Looking for durable and low-maintenance decking options? Consider PVC decking from Wolf and Azek.

Wolf Home Products offers the Serenity™ and Perspective™ series, with a range of colors and finishes to choose from. Serenity boards are reversible, while Perspective boards are non-reversible. Prices range from $10.00 to $15.00 per sq. ft.


Azek, under TimberTech, offers the Vintage, Landmark, and Harvest collections with capped polymer and composite decking options. Prices range from $9.00 to $14.00 per sq. ft.

Both Wolf and Azek offer limited lifetime warranties for residential purchasers and have excellent durability features. Wolf uses High-Density Cellular Technology, while Azek features Alloy Armour Technology for UV protection.

For eco-conscious customers, Azek has the AZEK FULL-CIRCLE Recycling™ program. Both companies provide great traction features and color options, making them ideal for any decking project.

WE NOW HAVE FINANCING AVAILABLE!!

We thought long and hard about this decision. People have asked. Composite decks are $120.00 per square foot. But you can increase the value of your home by 50% of the total outdoor living space price tag. We wanted to help.

We looked and interviewed and we think Hearth has the best moral compass and will help anyone.

Feel free to prequalify below, it won’t ding your credit.

What Next?

We are experts in Rain Escape, Zip-Up, And Azek Exteriors under decking systems

If you’re in the market for a brand-new Composite/PVC deck, let’s talk!

At Divergent Deck Builders, we build composite decks for clients across West Michigan. And the lakeshore from Saugatuck to Ludington. We work with each customer to design and build their dream deck while meeting all the codes and requirements. Feel free to check out some of our Most Recent Builds.

If you’re ready to get started, request a FREE DESIGN SESSION, and we’ll provide you with a custom quote based on your specific project.

If you’ve enjoyed this article, share it with someone you know who’s planning their own deck.

We are Divergent.

“Your Friendly Neighborhood Deck Builders”

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UnderDeck Water Proofing