Decking Delights: The Best Brands To Transform Your Outdoor Space

Beautiful blue gray composite deck

Have you ever wondered what makes a deck truly stand out? Or why do some decks look brand new while others show wear and tear?

In this post, you’ll discover the best composite decking brands and materials.

By the end, you’ll know exactly which brand suits your Belvidere deck installation project.


The Types Of Composite Decking Materials

Capped Composite Decking

Capped composite decking features a protective outer layer, or “cap,” that is bonded to the core during the manufacturing process. This cap provides enhanced durability and resistance to moisture, stains, and UV rays.

Benefits:

Best For: Capped composite decking is perfect for areas with intense sun exposure and high moisture levels, making it suitable for climates with varying weather conditions.


Uncapped Composite Decking

Uncapped composite decking lacks the extra protective layer found in capped composites. These boards are made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic but do not have the added protection against moisture and stains.

Benefits:

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners living in areas with less harsh climates where the decking is less exposed to extreme weather conditions.


Composite Decking With Recycled Materials

This type of composite decking incorporates a mix of recycled wood fibers and plastic, promoting sustainability and environmental friendliness. The blend of materials offers a durable and eco-friendly option for decking.

Benefits:

Best For: Homeowners who prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly deck materials while still seeking a durable and low-maintenance decking solution.


Quick-Glance Summary: The 8 Best Composite Decking Brands

1. Trex

2. TimberTech (AZEK)

3. Fiberon

4. Cali Bamboo

5. CertainTeed

6. Barrette Outdoor Living

7. Envision

8. Lumberock


The 8 Best Composite Decking Brands

1. Trex

When it comes to the best composite decking, Trex is often the first name that comes to mind.

As a market leader, Trex offers a variety of high-quality composite decking materials that are designed to last.

One of the standout features of Trex is its use of 95% recycled materials, including plastic bags and reclaimed wood. This eco-friendly approach not only helps reduce waste but also creates a durable and low-maintenance product that is perfect for your outdoor living space.

Trex decking is known for its robust 25-year warranty, which covers fading and staining. This makes it an excellent choice for areas exposed to direct sunlight or harsh weather conditions.

Check out the differences between Trex vs. Deckorators composite decking.


2. TimberTech (AZEK)

TimberTech, particularly its AZEK line, is another top contender in the composite decking market.

Known for its high-quality and somewhat pricier options, TimberTech offers several lines, including AZEK, Pro, and Edge, each tailored to different needs and budgets.

The AZEK line boasts a 50-year warranty, making it an ideal choice for those seeking the best deck material for snow and other extreme weather conditions. Its PVC decking materials are designed to resist moisture, stains, and scratches, ensuring your deck remains pristine over the years.

TimberTech’s Pro and Edge lines come with a 30-year warranty and feature capped composite decking, which offers extra protection against fading and wear. This makes them a great option for homeowners looking for a balance between cost and durability.

Curious about the differences between Trex vs. Timbertech?


3. Fiberon

Fiberon is renowned for pioneering capping technology in composite decking.

This innovation involves covering the composite wood decking with a tough outer layer, which provides additional protection against the elements.

Fiberon’s range of products caters to various price points, all backed by a 25-year warranty.

One of the significant advantages of Fiberon decking is its variety of colors and textures, which mimic the appearance of natural wood without the maintenance hassles.


4. Cali Bamboo

Cali Bamboo stands out for its use of recycled bamboo fibers, which are not only sustainable but also highly durable.

This brand offers two main lines: BamDeck and TruOrganics.

BamDeck is a budget-friendly option made from a blend of bamboo and recycled plastic. This makes it ideal for homeowners looking for an eco-friendly deck that can withstand intense, constant sunlight without warping.

TruOrganics is a high-end line that features a protective outer layer and offers enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.

Both lines are designed to resist stains, scratches, and fading, ensuring your deck maintains its beauty even in the hottest weather.

Here’s what to know about bamboo composite decking.


5. CertainTeed

Known for its extensive experience in roofing, siding, and fencing, CertainTeed also offers high-quality decking materials.

The EverNew line of vinyl and PVC decking is particularly noteworthy. While not strictly composite, these materials provide long-lasting performance with minimal maintenance.

EverNew decking comes with a lifetime warranty and is resistant to stains, scratches, and fading. Available in several UV-resistant colors, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking durable and visually appealing decking options for their outdoor spaces in Belvidere, IL.


6. Barrette Outdoor Living

Barrette Outdoor Living offers composite decking that incorporates its proprietary PolyPro blend of recycled hardwood fibers and plastic.

This blend, along with the ColorLock system, ensures the decking retains its color and resists fading over time.

Barrette’s Hardwoods and Landscapes Collections are popular choices, each featuring a 25-year limited warranty.

These collections provide a variety of color and texture options, making it easy to find a style that complements your home. The added protection from the clear polypropylene coating ensures longevity and low maintenance.


7. Envision

Envision’s decking products are made entirely from plastic, eliminating the issues associated with wood fibers. This makes them an excellent option for environments with high moisture or frequent temperature changes.

Envision offers several product lines, including Evergrain, Distinction, Inspiration, and Expression, each catering to different aesthetic preferences and budgets.

All Envision products come with a 25-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind and ensuring long-term satisfaction. Their realistic wood-like appearance and robust performance make them a favorite among those looking to enhance their outdoor living spaces.


8. Lumberock

Lumberock’s unique composite decking materials are made from a combination of recycled plastic and minerals, completely eliminating the use of wood fibers. This results in decking that is impervious to water absorption, mold, and insect damage.

Lumberock decking boards feature non-slip surfaces and come in 12 vibrant colors.

The limited lifetime warranty guarantees against cracking, splintering, peeling, and rotting for at least 50 years.


Factors To Consider When Choosing Composite Decking

Cost

When deciding on the best composite decking for your outdoor space in Belvidere, IL, the cost is a significant factor.

While composite decking materials tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional wood decking, they offer substantial long-term savings. This is primarily due to their low maintenance requirements.

Unlike wood decks, which need regular staining and sealing, composite decks require minimal upkeep, saving both time and money over the years.

Additionally, it’s essential to consider the total cost of composite decking in Belvidere, including installation, railings, and stairs.

While a DIY approach might reduce expenses, hiring professionals ensures a flawless finish and can prevent costly mistakes.

Remember, the initial investment in high-quality composite decking materials can lead to years of enjoyment and increased home value.


Durability

Durability is a key advantage of composite decking over traditional wood.

Composite decking is designed to withstand the elements, making it an excellent choice for areas exposed to full sun, snow, and heavy rain. Many brands, like Trex and TimberTech, offer extensive warranties, ranging from 25 to 50 years, which speak to their confidence in the product’s longevity.

For homeowners in Belvidere, IL, where weather can vary significantly, the best deck material for snow and the best deck material for hot weather are crucial considerations.

Composite decking resists warping, rotting, and insect damage, ensuring that your deck remains beautiful and functional year-round.


Style

One of the appealing aspects of composite decking is the variety of styles available.

From wood grain textures to sleek modern finishes, there is a decking material to suit every aesthetic preference. Brands like Fiberon and Cali Bamboo offer products that mimic the appearance of natural wood, which provides the beauty of traditional wood decking without the higher level of maintenance.

Composite decking boards feature a range of colors and finishes, allowing homeowners to create a customized look for their outdoor living space.

Additionally, options with grooved edges for hidden fasteners offer a clean, seamless deck surface, enhancing the overall appearance and safety of the deck.

Do you want some composite decking ideas?


Color

Choosing the right color for your deck can significantly impact the overall look of your outdoor space.

Composite decking is available in a wide array of colors, from rich, natural wood tones to contemporary grays and browns. Unlike traditional wood, composite decking does not require painting or staining, and the color is designed to last for years without fading.

Innovative brands have introduced color streaking and multi-tonal finishes that add depth and dimension to the decking material, giving it a more authentic wood-like appearance. This is particularly beneficial for those who want the aesthetic appeal of wood decks but with the low-maintenance advantages of composite decking.


Eco-Friendliness

For environmentally conscious homeowners, the eco-friendliness of composite decking is a significant selling point.

Many composite decking brands use recycled materials, such as plastic bags and reclaimed wood fibers, in their products. This not only reduces waste but also creates a durable and sustainable decking material.

There are many benefits to choosing composite decking.


Composite vs. Wood Decking

Cost Comparison

While the initial price of composite decking is higher, the overall cost can be lower in the long run due to reduced maintenance needs. Traditional wood decking, such as cedar decking or pressure-treated wood deck options, requires regular treatments to protect against the elements, which can add up over time.


Maintenance Requirements

One of the main advantages of composite decking is its low maintenance. Unlike wood decks that need regular sanding, staining, and sealing, composite decking requires only occasional cleaning with soap and water.


Durability And Longevity

Composite decking is engineered to last longer than traditional wood. It resists common issues like rotting, warping, and insect damage, which can plague wood decks. Most composite decking products come with extensive warranties, often covering 25 years or more.


Weight And Ease of Installation

Composite decking is typically heavier than traditional wood, which can affect the ease of installation. This extra weight, however, contributes to its durability and stability. For DIY enthusiasts, this means that while the installation process might require a bit more effort, the result is a sturdy, long-lasting deck.

Want to know more details about composite vs. wood decking?


Alternatives To Composite Decking

While composite decking is a popular choice, there are other materials to consider.

Aluminum and plastic decking offer alternatives that come with their own set of advantages.

Aluminum decking is lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust and weathering. It’s a great option for those looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance deck.

Plastic decking, often made from PVC, is another alternative that provides durability and resistance to moisture. It’s particularly useful in areas with high humidity or near water features like pools.


FAQs About Decking Materials

What’s the Best Deck Material for Snow?

For snowy climates, the best deck material is PVC decking. PVC decking materials are highly resistant to moisture and freezing temperatures, making them ideal for withstanding the harsh conditions of winter without warping or rotting.


What’s the Best Deck Material for Full Sun?

In areas with intense sun exposure, capped composite decking is the best choice. This material offers superior UV resistance and maintains its color and structural integrity even when exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.

Discover more about composite decking’s heat resistance.


What’s the Best Deck Material for Hot Weather?

For hot weather conditions, composite decking with a high-quality capping technology is recommended. This type of decking stays cooler underfoot and resists heat-related damage such as fading and warping, ensuring comfort and durability even in the hottest climates.


Use The Best Material And Best Decking Contractor With Hard Decks

Hard Decks can handle all your deck construction needs with top-tier composite decking materials designed for durability and beauty. Whether you’re looking for the best deck material for full sun, snow, or hot weather, we have you covered.

Ready to transform your outdoor space? Fill out our contact form today, or give us a call to start your deck project!