Thanks for stopping by our blog here at Deck Supply to read our composite decking comparison. We are a specialty building materials dealer in the Midwest, and we’ve been in business for twenty years, dedicated to deck builders by stocking and shipping thousands of deck specialty products every day. As a family-run company, we are passionate about decks and committed to helping you get your deck done right.

Let’s discuss the core of our business—composite decking. Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or designer, understanding the different types of composite decking available can help you make an informed decision for your project.

What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking is typically made from a combination of recycled plastic and wood fiber. However, there are also products made from cellular PVC, bamboo fiber, and other natural fibers. Most of these materials are capped with a poly or PVC coating, which provides the color, texture, and aesthetic appeal designers aim for. This advanced composition means composite decking provides greater durability, lower maintenance, and a longer lifespan compared to traditional wood decking.

Several manufacturers produce composite decking, and we carry multiple brands in our yard, and we have an extensive catalog of decking available in our local supply network. Each manufacturer generally categorizes their decking into three main pricing tiers—Good, Better, and Best. Additionally, many brands offer a Luxury line for high-end projects. Let’s break down each category to help you find the right option for your deck.

Good: Entry-Level Composite Decking

The “Good” category includes entry-level composite decking, which became particularly popular during COVID when lumber prices skyrocketed – and you could buy composite decking for less than a treated lumber deck. These boards often come with a 20-25 year warranty and offer a budget-friendly alternative to traditional wood decking.

Characteristics of “Good” Category Deck Material:

• Typically scalloped (material is removed from the underside to reduce cost)
• Capped on three sides, leaving the underside exposed
• Priced between $2 to $3.50 per linear foot
• Generally single-color with a basic grain pattern
• Recommended for standard decks but not ideal for low-clearance applications or docks

One key consideration when selecting entry-level decking is long-term durability versus upfront cost. While these boards provide a solid solution for homeowners on a budget, they do have limitations in certain environments. For example, since they are capped on only three sides, moisture from the ground can still impact the board’s core, potentially leading to faster degradation in areas with excessive humidity or water exposure. If you’re considering a low-profile deck (close to the ground), you might want to explore the “Better” category.

For best performance, if you are using these boards on a 16-inch center frame, consider upgrading to the “Better” category. However, if you’re set on entry-level boards, installing them on a 12-inch center frame can reduce the risk of bowing or warping in extreme heat. This slight frame adjustment can make a big difference in long-term performance.

Better: Mid-Tier Composite Decking

The “Better” category offers a noticeable upgrade in aesthetics and durability. These boards often feature multiple color variations and enhanced grain patterns for a more natural look. Some may still be scalloped, but they generally provide improved durability.

Characteristics of Better Category Decking:

• Priced between $3.50 to $5 per linear foot
• More realistic wood-like grain patterns with multiple color tones
• Some include UV inhibitors to reduce heat absorption
• Enhanced durability with fewer expansion and contraction issues
• Suitable for most homeowners looking for a balance of quality and cost

One of the biggest advantages of moving up to the “Better” category is the improved color depth and texture. Homeowners who want their deck to look more like real wood but still desire the maintenance-free benefits of composite will find this to be a great option. This category also introduces better material blends, which may include mineral-based composites to further reduce expansion and contraction issues.

One notable example in this category is Deckorators, which incorporates a mineral composite for added strength and reduced movement over time. This makes it a great choice for high-traffic areas. Contractors appreciate this because it leads to fewer callbacks for warranty issues related to warping or board shrinkage. If you’re looking for a mid-tier deck that offers both style and durability, this is a strong contender.

Best: High-Quality Composite Deck Material

If you want the best composite decking available, this category is for you. The “Best” category consists of premium, full-profile deck boards with superior durability, warranties, and aesthetics.

Characteristics of Best Category Decking:

• Priced between $6 to $8.50 per linear foot
• Full-profile boards with no scalloping
• Capped on all four sides for maximum moisture protection
• Longer warranties (30-50 years depending on the brand)
• Some brands offer fire-rated boards for additional safety
• Approved for use in dock applications and as cladding on vertical surfaces

If you’re building a deck that needs to last decades with minimal upkeep, investing in the Best category is a smart choice. These boards are less prone to mold, mildew, and UV fading, thanks to their four-sided protective capping. Additionally, many manufacturers in this category offer wider color options, including multi-tonal grain patterns that closely mimic exotic hardwoods.

Another standout feature is fire resistance. Some manufacturers offer Class A-rated fire-resistant boards, making them suitable for areas prone to wildfires or where fire codes require non-combustible materials. While this isn’t a necessity for all homeowners, it’s a game-changer in certain regions.

Luxury: The Pinnacle of Composite and PVC Decking

Luxury composite decking is where manufacturers incorporate premium materials like PVC, offering the best in terms of durability, aesthetics, and performance. Many brands place their PVC decking lines in this category.

Characteristics of Luxury Category Decking:

• Priced between $7 to $10 per linear foot
• Made from PVC or alternative high-end materials
• Lightweight compared to traditional composites
• Excellent resistance to moisture, mold, and mildew
• Popular for coastal regions, docks, and extreme weather conditions
• Less heat retention due to the lightweight material

The defining feature of luxury decking is its PVC composition, which makes it extremely resilient to moisture and climate changes. Unlike traditional composite decking, PVC boards do not absorb water, making them ideal for waterfront applications like docks, marinas, and poolside decks.

Additionally, many high-end homeowners and commercial projects opt for PVC decking due to its lightweight nature. Contractors find that these boards reduce labor fatigue since they are easier to carry and install, especially for multi-level decks or rooftop installations.

From a design perspective, the color and texture of luxury decking often rival real hardwood flooring, making it an attractive choice for those who want a seamless indoor-outdoor transition. While the upfront investment is significant, the low-maintenance and long lifespan make it a wise choice for those seeking the best in decking materials.

Final Thoughts

Using this composite decking comparison can help narrow down your options in a world full of colors and textures! Depending on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and project requirements – we hope to help guide you to a decision for your new deck!  To summarize:

• Good ($2-$3.50/linear foot): Entry-level, scalloped boards, great for standard decks
• Better ($3.50-$5/linear foot): Mid-range, enhanced aesthetics, improved durability
• Best ($6-$8.50/linear foot): Premium, full-profile, four-sided capping, high warranties
• Luxury ($7-$10/linear foot): High-end PVC options, lightweight, extreme durability

No matter your choice, composite decking provides a long-lasting and low-maintenance solution compared to traditional wood. If you’re ready to find the right decking for your project, visit TheDeckSupply.com or give us a call at 1-888-8-ON-DECK for more information. Let’s get your deck done right!

Thanks for reading, and have a great day!