You are looking at a new deck for your Cambridge home. You have decided to use a composite material. This is a smart choice, especially with the New England weather we get here in Cambridge. Not all composite decks are the same. You have capped composite and you have PVC decking. PVC decking is often grouped with composite, but it is a different product. We will explain the real difference between PVC and composite decking. We will also help you decide which one makes sense for your Cambridge backyard.
Cambridge Deck Solutions has installed many decks in Cambridge, MA. We have worked on triple-deckers in Cambridgeport and homes in North Cambridge. The choice between PVC and composite decking is not just about the price. It is about how you use your deck. It is also about what you expect from your deck. And it is about how much maintenance you want to do once your deck is built.
Traditional Capped Composite Decking: The Workhorse
Most people think of capped composite decking when they talk about composite decking. This material is made from recycled wood fibers and plastic. It has a tough, protective polymer cap. The cap is important. It makes the decking much better than older, uncapped versions. Those older versions used to fade and stain easily.
- Cost: Capped composite decking is usually more affordable upfront than PVC decking. The material cost is around $4.50 to $13 per square foot. It is a good mid-range option for Cambridge homeowners. It gives you good value for the money.
- Durability: These capped composite boards are very tough. They resist rot, insects, and splintering. This is a big improvement over wood decking. The cap protects against moisture absorption, fading, and staining. Capped composite decks are built to last. They often have warranties from 25 to 50 years.
- Maintenance: Capped composite decking is easy to maintain. You will not stain or seal it every year like wood decking. A good sweep and an occasional wash with soap and water is usually all it needs. This keeps your capped composite deck looking good in Cambridge.
- Appearance: Modern capped composite decking looks very much like natural wood. It has real-looking grain patterns and many colors. If you want a warm, natural wood look without the work, capped composite decking is a strong choice.
PVC Decking: The Premium Performer
PVC decking is different. It is made from 100% polyvinyl chloride. This means it has no wood fiber in it. It is pure plastic. This makes a big difference in how PVC decking performs.
- Cost: PVC decking is usually the more expensive option. Material costs can be from $10 to $15 per square foot. It is a premium product, and the price shows this.
- Durability: PVC decking is very durable. Because it is all synthetic, it is not affected by moisture, mold, or mildew. It is also very resistant to pests. Some brands say PVC decking can last 50 years or more. PVC decking is also lighter than composite decking.
- Maintenance: PVC decking needs even less maintenance than composite decking. It is waterproof and very easy to clean. You will still want to sweep it and hose it down. But you will not worry about mold or mildew growing on it.
- Appearance: PVC decking has improved a lot. Many options look very good. However, some PVC decking can look more synthetic or uniform compared to the best composite decking. It often has a more polished finish. PVC decking can expand and contract more with temperature changes than composite. This can sometimes cause visible gaps if the PVC decking is not installed correctly.
The Cambridge Climate Factor: What We Have Seen
Here in Massachusetts, we experience all types of weather. We have freezing winters with heavy snow loads and ice. We have humid summers with strong UV rays. And we have big temperature changes that make materials expand and contract. This kind of weather is very hard on decks in Cambridge.
Heat Retention: Both composite and PVC decking can get hot in direct summer sun. This is especially true for darker colors. Lighter colors help reflect sunlight and keep the surfaces cooler. This is a common concern we hear from homeowners with south-facing decks, like in the Agassiz neighborhood. Good ventilation under the deck also helps a lot.
Moisture Resistance: This is very important for us in Cambridge. Our springs can be wet, and humidity is always present in summer. PVC decking is 100% synthetic. This gives it an advantage in moisture resistance. It is almost completely resistant to mold and mildew. Capped composite decking is excellent, but PVC decking is better in very damp conditions or around a pool.
Our Recommendation for Cambridge Homeowners
Capped composite decking and PVC decking are both good, low-maintenance options compared to wood. Either will perform well for many decades if installed correctly. If you are asking Cambridge Deck Solutions for a clear recommendation based on our Cambridge climate, we will suggest PVC decking. This is especially true for areas that are prone to dampness or heavy sun exposure.
We recommend PVC decking because its superior moisture resistance is very important for our climate. It means less worry about mold, mildew, and long-term moisture issues. These can be a real problem in our humid summers and wet winters. PVC decking is also lighter. This can sometimes make installation a bit smoother. However, it is less flexible to work with than composite decking.
Yes, PVC decking costs more upfront. But it has a longer lifespan. It also needs very little upkeep. And it is completely resistant to the elements. Because of these things, PVC decking often pays for itself over time. You are investing in a deck that you will not have to think about for a very long time. For homes and businesses in Cambridge, Cambridge Deck Solutions provides PVC Decking services.
If your budget is a tighter concern, a high-quality capped composite decking is still an excellent choice. It will perform much better than wood decking. You will get a beautiful, durable deck that needs minimal maintenance. But if you want the best performance and the least amount of fuss for your Cambridge home, PVC decking is the way to go. Call Cambridge Deck Solutions for PVC Decking work in Cambridge, MA. We can show you the options with samples right in your yard.