Is PVC or Vinyl Better for My Deck Project?
If it’s time for a deck upgrade, then it’s time for a battle of the materials. As a homeowner, you’ll need to do some research about which material will work best for your lifestyle and needs, such as how much time and money you’re willing to invest upfront or in maintenance. While wood and composite decks are the most traditional styles of decking, longer-lasting and lower-maintenance materials are becoming more popular. Vinyl and PVC are the two most common alternatives for decks.
While looking relatively similar from afar, vinyl and PVC decking are slightly different in composition and style. Depending on what you are looking for in a deck, your contractor can guide you toward the best material that suits your needs.
Related Article: Which Deck Material is Right For Your Home?
Cellular PVC Decking
Cellular polyvinyl chloride (PVC) decking is a long-lasting alternative to traditional wooden or composite decking materials. While PVC does not have a similar appearance to wood like composite, PVC comes in a variety of colors. Depending on your color and design choice, this decking material can be colored to look similar to wood from far away.
While cellular PVC decking is a less expensive alternative when you are looking to build or restore your deck, it does not come without its own issues. Depending on the climate, PVC could expand and contract significantly with the seasonal heat and cold weather.
Since PVC is almost always made up of recycled plastics, the surface can also get hot to the touch in the summer months. A quick fix is to add outdoor rugs to cover the walking surface of the deck or ensure shading with landscaping or structures.
Vinyl Decking
While very similar to cellular PVC decking materials, vinyl has an additional external layer of fiber. This outer fiber layer allows for a longer and more sustainable deck life. In addition to being water and slip-resistant, vinyl does not absorb and retain heat like PVC decking, and it is considered heat-resistant. Vinyl decking is made of recycled plastics and also has the flexibility to come in many different styles and colors.
Like all the other deck material options, there are downsides to vinyl. Since vinyl is made of recycled plastics, it is not biodegradable. During and after installation, consult your contractor about the removal of the shavings and scraps of leftover materials.
Vinyl is also one of the most expensive decking materials offered. Because of the material’s design and production, the initial building and installation costs are higher for a vinyl deck. However, because of the longevity of the material and its resistance to outdoor elements, vinyl can end up saving you money in the long run.
Related Article: Is Composite Decking Environmentally Friendly?
Trust Advance Inc. With Your Deck
While designing your deck and outdoor space, make sure to consult your contractor for their perspective. At Advance Inc., we have years of experience helping our clients build their dream outdoor spaces with suitable materials. Our experts in deck design and construction will assist you in choosing the right look and material to fit your vision and lifestyle.
Contact Advance Inc. to get started on your deck project.