WPC Decking or PVC Decking, Which is Better? [2024 Update]

In 2024, the debate between PVC vs. Composite Decking continues as homeowners seek the best options for their outdoor spaces. This article will delve into the pros and cons of both PVC and WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) decking to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Basics

What is WPC Decking?

WPC decking, or Wood Plastic Composite decking, is a blend of wood fibers and plastic materials, offering a natural wood-like appearance with enhanced durability.

What is PVC Decking?

PVC decking is made purely from synthetic materials, providing a high level of durability and minimal maintenance needs.

PVC Decking vs WPC Decking: The Composition

As an alternative to traditional wood decking, both composite and PVC decking have offering their advantages, especially the features of durability and practicability. When comparing PVC decking vs composite, the key difference lies in their composition. PVC is entirely synthetic, while composite decking blends wood and plastic, offering a balance between authenticity and resilience.

Durability and Maintenance

PVC Decking Durability

PVC decking is known for its exceptional durability, resisting rot, mold, and warping. Made from 100% plastic, PVC decking has the absolute capacity of water absorption, which means that it has high performance in wrapping resistance. What is more, it is also fade resistant than traditional uncapped WPC decking. Also, it can be recycled and repurposed after its life as a deck, due to the durability and longevity of plastic.

Nevertheless, pure and simple plastic has its own shortcomings. For example, PVC decking cannot be ripped or routed and requires special tools to bend, but WPC decking is more flexible with the wood fibers. So the installation process has become harder.

Expanding and contracting is a big problem when using PVC decking. It can change size quite drastically as a result of extreme temperatures, causing it to expand and contract. On an extremely hot day, it won’t only radiate and retain heat, making it painful to walk on with bare feet, but the large expansions and inevitable contractions can also wear and even potentially damage the boards. On the contrary, in cold weather, the decking can be brittle and crack under pressure.

Lastly, PVC decking is totally artificial, even if finished with a wood grain effect, it is hard to achieve an authentic texture with a product that is solely plastic.

WPC Decking Durability

WPC decking, while also durable, offers the added warmth and feel of real wood, which PVC lacks. WPC Decking is made from 60% wood fibres, 35% HDPE, and 5% additives. Unlike PVC decking, it has a high recycled content. This means that not a single tree is cut down to create our decking. At the same time, Oakio which produces WPC decking uses renewable energy from solar panels to further minimize the environmental impact of the entire process.

Due to the wood fibre content, which also gives the decking a far more authentic wood grain appearance, resulting in a more natural surface finishing.

Finally, the fibrous structure of the wood makes it an easier product to install, like traditional timber decking. Also, Oakio WPC decking was made from Oak wood fibres, which makes the color of decking more durable than normal WPC decking.

Maintenance Requirements

Both PVC and WPC decking are low-maintenance, but PVC usually requires less care over time compared to composite decking.

Aesthetic and Design Options

Aesthetically, the choice between PVC decking vs composite can be tough. PVC offers more uniformity in color and texture, while WPC decking brings a more authentic wood appearance and feel.

Cost Comparison

In terms of cost, composite decking vs PVC can vary, with PVC generally being more expensive upfront but potentially more cost-effective in the long run due to lower maintenance costs.

Environmental Impact

WPC decking is often seen as the more environmentally friendly option, given its use of recycled materials, compared to the entirely synthetic PVC decking.

Is PVC Decking Better Than Composite?

It depends on what factors are most important to you. If you prioritize durability and low maintenance, PVC may be better. However, for a more natural look and eco-friendliness, WPC decking could be the preferable choice.

User Experiences and Reviews

User reviews often highlight the ease of maintenance of PVC decking, while WPC decking receives praise for its natural look and feel.

Conclusion

Both composite decking vs PVC have their merits and drawbacks. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, aesthetic preferences, and environmental considerations. After reading the comparison of WPC decking and PVC decking, you must have a grasp of a situation and know what to do. If you are looking for a product that combines the natural aesthetic of wood with the practicality and durability of a wood polymer composite, obviously, Oakio WPC decking is a good choice. Not only does it provide varies advantages over both traditional timber and 100% plastic decking, come with Oakio you can rest assured that you have also picked a sustainable way. Still undecided about PVC vs. Composite Decking for your home? Contact us for more guidance or share your thoughts in the comments below!