Why not wood…???
One of the most commonly asked question we receive here at Divergent Deck Builders is undoubtedly "Why Not Wood?”. This question carries significant weight, especially when considering the substantial price difference, which can range from 40% to 60% between a traditional deck constructed with wood deck boards and a modern deck made from PVC or composite materials. Homeowners are understandably leery, and want to know why they should invest so much more money in alternative decking options.
In the past a wood deck, with proper maintenance and regular staining every couple of years, could last as long as 30 years. Unfortunately, those days are now a distant memory. To begin with, the materials that were commonly used in the 70’s and 80’s to pressure treat wood included arsenic, turpentine, and many other harmful chemicals, which pose significant risks to the health of our children, pets, and loved one’s, including you.
Wood will not last thirty years anymore!
In January 2004, the EPA no longer allows pressure-treated wood containing CCA to be used for residential applications such as children's play structures, decks, picnic tables, landscaping timbers, residential fencing or walkways.
Treated lumber has undergone a specialized chemical process that significantly enhances the wood's resistance to rot, decay, and various types of insect damage. This essential chemical processing effectively extends the overall lifespan of the wood, particularly when it is utilized for outdoor construction projects. However, it is important to note that the chemicals used in this treatment process also pose serious health and environmental concerns that should not be overlooked.
Wood is not as strong as it once was!
Intensive forest management practices are being implemented on a global scale to effectively meet the increasing future demands for wood and wood products while simultaneously facilitating the protection and preservation of natural forest ecosystems. A potential decline in desirable wood properties associated with rapid tree growth makes it essential to thoroughly quantify the potential impacts of intensive management on the intricate process of wood formation and, subsequently, on its overall suitability for various end-use applications.
Wood that is produced over shorter rotations is generally considered to be of lower quality because wood properties tend to improve with cambial age, which refers to the number of annual growth rings that develop from the pith. As a result, the intensification of silvicultural practices can have measurable and significant consequences for the entire forest products value chain. The use of innovative planting material derived from tree improvement programs could potentially offset such negative effects, but important questions arise concerning the impacts of a changing climate on the wood produced from these plantations, as well as the most effective silvicultural approaches to manage them sustainably moving forward.
Wood requires many hours of maintenance!
Power washing twice a year and staining one per year is recommended!
PVC
Composite (wood and mineral)
Aluminum
Stone
By far the most significant factor to consider when you are weighing the options between a wood deck and a composite deck is the amount of time you will inevitably spend maintaining that deck over its lifetime. With a composite or PVC decking material, you need only spray any spots or drips off with a hose, and in the very rare occasion that it becomes necessary, you might need to lightly pressure wash your modern composite or PVC deck to keep it looking its best.
Imagine spending the entire first week of your early summer pressure washing, sanding, and staining your wood deck, only to have that hard work yield a lifespan of merely 15 to 20 years. At Divergent Deck Builders, we focus on providing long-lasting, low-maintenance, and high-quality products that enhance your enjoyment of outdoor spaces.
What Next?
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.
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