Your outdoor space should be a true extension of your home, reflecting your personal style. In the past, choosing a low-maintenance deck might have meant sacrificing aesthetics. Today, that’s no longer the case. Modern composite decking has evolved, offering an incredible range of colors, textures, and realistic wood-grain patterns that can complement any architectural style, from rustic to contemporary. Whether you envision a sleek, modern platform for entertaining or a warm, multi-tonal space for family gatherings, there’s a perfect fit for your vision. When it comes to designing with composite decking, Riverside homeowners have access to top brands that make customization easy. Let’s explore the stylish possibilities that will transform your backyard into a personalized oasis.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on long-term value over initial price: Composite decking is a smart investment because its durability and low-maintenance design save you significant time and money on upkeep compared to wood, paying for itself over the years.
- Prioritize professional installation for safety and longevity: A deck is a complex structure, and proper installation is key to its safety, performance, and warranty protection. Hiring an expert handles building codes and manufacturer specifics, ensuring a flawless result.
- Be a savvy shopper to find the right fit and price: Get the best deck for your home by comparing brand warranties, styles, and performance features. You can make your project more affordable by getting multiple quotes and looking for off-season sales.
What Is Composite Decking?
If you’re dreaming of a new deck, you’ve likely come across composite decking—and for good reason. It’s become a go-to choice for homeowners who want a beautiful outdoor space without the constant work. So, what is it exactly? Composite decking is an innovative material made from a mix of recycled wood fibers and plastic. This blend creates a board that gives you the timeless, natural look of wood but with the strength and resilience of a synthetic material. It’s truly the best of both worlds.
The real magic of composite decking lies in its performance, especially in our sunny Southern California climate. It’s a durable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood because it’s specifically engineered to stand up to the elements. You won’t have to deal with common wood-related headaches like rotting, splintering, or insect damage. It also holds its color exceptionally well, resisting the fading and staining that can happen with sun exposure and everyday use. This means you get to spend more time relaxing on your deck and far less time sanding, sealing, and staining it.
Beyond its easy upkeep, this material is built for the long haul. A well-installed composite deck can easily last up to 25 years, and many leading brands back their products with impressive 30- to 50-year warranties. It’s a solid investment that adds lasting value to your home. As a bonus, composite decking is often an eco-friendly choice. Many manufacturers use over 90% recycled materials to produce their boards, so you can build a stunning outdoor oasis that’s also a little kinder to the environment.
Discover Riverside’s Top Composite Decking Brands
When you start exploring composite decking, you’ll quickly find a handful of brands that lead the industry in quality, style, and innovation. Choosing the right brand is a big decision, as it sets the foundation for your entire outdoor space. Each company offers a unique blend of colors, textures, and performance features designed to withstand the elements while looking fantastic for years to come. From realistic wood grains that mimic exotic hardwoods to modern monochromatic tones perfect for a minimalist aesthetic, there’s a perfect fit for every Riverside home.
As you compare options, pay close attention to the warranties. A strong warranty, often spanning 25 to 50 years, is a clear sign of a manufacturer’s confidence in its product’s durability. It’s your assurance that your investment is protected against fading, staining, and structural issues. This long-term backing is one of the biggest advantages composite has over traditional wood. At A G Vinyl Fencing, we work with the best materials on the market to build beautiful, long-lasting decking, and these are the brands we consistently trust for their performance and reliability. Let’s look at some of the top names you’ll encounter on your search.
Trex
Trex is one of the most recognized names in composite decking, and for good reason. The brand has built a reputation on creating exceptionally durable and long-lasting products. Its popular Transcend line, for example, is engineered to resist fading, staining, scratching, and mold, making it a workhorse for busy outdoor areas. Homeowners love Trex for its deep, realistic wood-grain patterns and vibrant color options that hold up beautifully over time. If you’re looking for a proven, high-performance material that combines classic aesthetics with modern technology, Trex is a fantastic place to start your search. Their commitment to sustainability, using 95% recycled materials, is another big plus.
TimberTech
If you want a wide range of design choices without sacrificing strength, TimberTech is a top contender. Known for its impressive durability, this brand backs its products with warranties that can stretch from 25 to 50 years, giving you incredible peace of mind. What really sets TimberTech apart is its focus on style. The brand offers an extensive palette of colors and textures, from rustic and traditional to sleek and contemporary. This makes it easy to find the perfect look to complement your home’s architecture and your personal taste. TimberTech is an excellent choice for homeowners who see their deck as a true extension of their indoor living space.
Deckorators
Deckorators is a brand that stands firmly behind its products, offering some of the most robust warranties in the business. They provide a 50-year structural warranty for their innovative mineral-based composite (MBC) decking and a 25-year warranty for their wood-plastic composite options. This powerful backing reflects the brand’s commitment to creating exceptionally strong and resilient decking. Their mineral-based line is particularly noteworthy as it contains no wood fibers, offering superior water resistance and stability. For Riverside homeowners who prioritize long-term durability and want the assurance of a leading structural warranty, Deckorators is a very reliable choice.
Fiberon
For those who value sustainability just as much as style, Fiberon is an excellent option. The brand is known for its eco-friendly approach, crafting its decking from recycled materials without sacrificing quality or appearance. With solid warranties that typically last around 25 years, Fiberon offers a reliable product that you can feel good about. Their collections feature a beautiful range of colors and finishes, from multi-tonal boards that capture the look of exotic hardwoods to solid shades for a more uniform look. Fiberon proves that you can create a stunning, low-maintenance outdoor oasis while making an environmentally responsible choice.
MoistureShield
As its name suggests, MoistureShield’s biggest strength is its incredible resistance to water and moisture. This brand has developed unique technology that allows its boards to be installed on the ground, in the ground, or even underwater without damage. This makes it an ideal choice for Riverside homes with pools, hot tubs, or yards with irrigation systems. With warranties that can extend up to 50 years, MoistureShield offers serious protection and longevity. If your deck will be exposed to high levels of moisture, or if you simply want the ultimate defense against rot and water damage, this brand’s Solid Core technology provides unmatched performance and peace of mind.
Azek
Positioned at the premium end of the market, Azek is synonymous with luxury and cutting-edge design. This brand is recognized for its superior quality and sophisticated aesthetics, making it a top choice for homeowners looking to create a truly high-end outdoor living space. Azek decking is made from a capped polymer material that contains no wood fibers, offering exceptional resistance to stains, scratches, and moisture. The brand backs its products with some of the best warranties in the industry, often covering performance and fading for up to 50 years. If your vision includes a refined, elegant deck with unparalleled performance, Azek is a worthwhile investment.
Composite vs. Wood: Which Decking Is Right for You?
Choosing between composite and wood decking is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make for your outdoor space. Both materials can create a beautiful, functional area for relaxing and entertaining, but they offer very different experiences when it comes to durability, maintenance, and cost. The right choice really comes down to your budget, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide which material is the perfect fit for your Riverside home.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Here in Southern California, our decks face intense sun and dry conditions. Composite decking is specifically engineered to handle this climate. Made from a blend of recycled plastic and wood fibers, it’s built to resist the common issues that plague wood, like rotting, splintering, and insect damage. You won’t have to worry about termites making a meal of your investment or the boards warping after a rare rainy season. Wood, on the other hand, is a natural material that interacts with its environment. While its classic look is timeless, it requires protection to stand up to the elements. Without regular sealing, wood can fade, crack, and become vulnerable to moisture and pests. For homeowners seeking a durable, low-effort solution, composite’s resilience is a major advantage.
Maintenance Needs
Your weekend time is precious, and this is where the difference between composite and wood becomes crystal clear. A composite deck is the definition of low-maintenance. A simple cleaning with soap and water a couple of times a year is usually all it takes to keep it looking great. There’s no need for the annual ritual of sanding, staining, or sealing that wood decks demand. While wood requires more hands-on care, it does have an edge in repairability. If a single wood board gets damaged, you can typically replace it without much fuss. With composite, a deep gouge or stain can be more difficult to fix, sometimes requiring a full board replacement. Ultimately, you have to weigh the frequent, predictable maintenance of wood against the minimal upkeep but trickier repairs of composite decking.
Style and Customization Options
There’s no denying the natural, authentic beauty of a real wood deck. Each board has a unique grain, and it can be stained to a variety of rich, warm tones. For some, nothing beats the classic look and feel of wood. However, composite decking has come a long way from its early days and now offers an incredible range of aesthetic choices. Modern composite brands provide a huge selection of colors and styles, from deep browns that mimic tropical hardwoods to contemporary grays and beiges. The boards often feature realistic wood-grain patterns and textures, giving you the look of wood without the upkeep. This variety allows for complete custom design to perfectly match your home’s exterior and create a truly personalized outdoor living area.
Environmental Footprint
If sustainability is a priority for you, composite decking presents a compelling case. Most brands manufacture their products using a high percentage of recycled materials—often over 90%—combining things like reclaimed wood scraps and recycled plastic bags. This process diverts tons of waste from landfills every year. Some brands, like Trex, are known for being made without felling a single tree. Wood is a renewable resource, but its environmental impact depends heavily on forestry practices. Choosing wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) ensures it comes from responsibly managed forests. However, for homeowners who want to make a direct impact by supporting the use of recycled content, composite is an excellent eco-conscious choice.
Long-Term Costs and Value
Let’s talk numbers. Wood decking generally has a lower upfront cost, with installation typically running between $25 and $43 per square foot. Composite decking is a bigger initial investment, usually costing between $30 and $60 per square foot installed. Seeing those figures side-by-side, wood might seem like the obvious financial winner, but it’s important to look at the bigger picture. The long-term value of composite decking is where it truly shines. Over a lifespan of 25 years or more, you’ll save a significant amount of money on stains, sealers, and cleaning products. More importantly, you’ll save countless hours of labor. When you factor in the minimal maintenance and long lifespan, the higher initial cost of composite often proves to be a smarter investment over time.
How Much Does Composite Decking Cost in Riverside?
Thinking about your budget is one of the first steps in any home improvement project, and building a new deck is no different. When you start looking at composite decking, it’s helpful to see it as an investment in your home’s long-term value and your own enjoyment. The total price tag is a combination of two key things: the cost of the materials themselves and the cost of professional installation. While the initial number might look higher than traditional wood, it’s important to consider the full picture. Let’s break down what you can expect to spend on a beautiful, long-lasting composite deck in the Riverside area.
Material Expenses
When you’re planning your budget, the boards themselves are the biggest material expense. In Riverside, you can expect composite decking materials to cost between $16 and $32 per square foot. The final price depends on the brand, the specific collection you choose, and the finish. Premium lines with more complex color variations or textures will be at the higher end of that range. When you factor in labor, the total installed cost for a new composite deck typically falls between $40 and $80 per square foot. This gives you a solid, all-in number to work with as you explore different decking options for your home.
Installation Costs
Professional installation ensures your deck is built safely and will last for decades. For composite decking in Riverside, installation costs generally run from $30 to $60 per square foot. For comparison, installing a traditional wood deck usually costs a bit less, around $25 to $43 per square foot. The price for your specific project will depend on a few things, like the complexity of your design—curves, multiple levels, and built-in features can add to the labor time. The accessibility of your property and current local labor rates also play a role. Getting a detailed quote from a trusted installer is the best way to understand the full cost of your project.
Long-Term Value and ROI
While the upfront cost of composite decking is higher than wood, its long-term value is where it truly shines. Think about all the time and money you’ll save by not having to sand, stain, or seal your deck every year. Composite materials are designed to resist fading, rot, and insects, so you won’t face the same repair and replacement costs that come with wood. This durability means your deck will look great and function perfectly for much longer. Over the life of your deck, the lower maintenance costs and extended lifespan often result in a better return on investment, making it a financially smart choice for your home.
How to Maintain Your Composite Deck in Riverside’s Climate
Composite decking is a fantastic choice for Riverside homeowners because it’s built to withstand our sunny, dry climate. It’s a durable, low-maintenance alternative to wood that resists rot, splintering, and insect damage. But “low-maintenance” doesn’t mean “no-maintenance.” To keep your deck looking its best for years to come, a little bit of care is essential. The intense sun and occasional Santa Ana winds mean your deck faces unique challenges. A simple maintenance plan will protect your investment and ensure your outdoor space remains a beautiful, safe place for relaxing and entertaining. Think of it less as a chore and more as a way to preserve the oasis you’ve created. With a few straightforward steps, you can easily manage your decking and keep it in prime condition through every season.
Create a Regular Cleaning Routine
Keeping your composite deck clean is the first and most important step in maintaining it. Regular cleaning is essential for preserving the deck’s appearance and extending its life. Start by sweeping away leaves, dirt, and other debris weekly, or as needed. This simple action prevents grime from building up and potentially staining the surface. A couple of times a year, give your deck a gentle wash with a soft-bristle brush and a simple solution of soap and water. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid leaving a soapy film. While a pressure washer can be used, it’s best to use a fan tip and keep it at a low setting to prevent damaging the deck’s protective cap.
Prevent Stains and Damage
While composite decking is tough, it’s not indestructible. Unlike wood, which can often be sanded and repaired, damaged composite boards may need to be completely replaced. That’s why prevention is your best strategy. Place mats under your grill to catch grease splatters and use furniture pads under the legs of chairs and tables to prevent scratches. If you have potted plants, put them on stands to allow for air circulation and prevent water stains. Spills are inevitable, so just be ready to clean them up quickly. Whether it’s a dropped burger, a spilled glass of wine, or sunscreen drips, prompt cleaning will keep your deck looking brand new.
Use UV Protection Strategies
The relentless Riverside sun is one of the biggest challenges for any outdoor material. While quality composite decking is manufactured to resist fading, constant UV exposure can still affect its color over time. To protect your deck’s vibrant hue, consider adding some shade to your outdoor space. A large cantilever umbrella can shield a dining area, while a stylish pergola can create a beautiful, filtered-light effect. For a more permanent and integrated solution, a vinyl patio cover can provide substantial shade, protecting your deck and making the area more comfortable for you and your guests on hot, sunny days.
Follow Seasonal Maintenance Tips
A little seasonal attention will go a long way in keeping your deck in top shape. Make it a habit to regularly clean and inspect your deck to address minor issues before they become major problems. Twice a year, perhaps in the spring and fall, take a walk around your deck with a critical eye. Check for any loose boards or fasteners and ensure railings are secure. Look for any stubborn stains or signs of mildew that might need a more targeted cleaning. Clearing away debris that gets trapped between boards is also important, as it can hold moisture and lead to staining. This quick seasonal check-up is an easy way to ensure the safety and longevity of your outdoor living area.
Choose the Perfect Composite Deck for Your Home
Picking the right composite deck is an exciting process. It’s your chance to create an outdoor space that perfectly reflects your style and meets your family’s needs. With so many options available, the key is to balance aesthetics with performance. Think about how you want your deck to look, how you plan to use it, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. By considering a few key factors—color, performance, and warranties—you can confidently choose a deck that you’ll love for decades.
Select Your Color and Style
This is the fun part—choosing the look of your new deck. Gone are the days of limited options. Today’s composite decking comes in a stunning array of colors and textures, from rich hardwoods to rustic grays. Brands like Trex, TimberTech, and Fiberon offer diverse palettes to match any home’s exterior. Start by looking at your home’s siding and trim. Do you want your deck to blend in or make a statement? Gathering a few samples to see how they look in the Riverside sun is a great way to finalize your decision.
Consider Key Performance Features
A beautiful deck is great, but a beautiful deck that lasts is even better. Composite decking is engineered for durability, making it a fantastic choice for our local climate. Unlike wood, it resists common issues like rot, splintering, and insect damage, so you can relax without constant upkeep. High-performance composites also hold their color, resisting fading from sun exposure. With a lifespan of 25 to 30 years or more, a composite deck is a long-term investment that gives you more time to actually enjoy your outdoor space.
Compare Manufacturer Warranties
Before you make a final decision, look at the manufacturer’s warranty. A strong warranty shows a company’s confidence in its product. Most brands offer coverage from 20 to 50 years, with some providing lifetime protection. It’s important to read the fine print, as warranties often have separate terms for structural integrity versus stain and fade resistance. For example, some of the best composite decking warranties offer 50 years of structural coverage and 25 years for staining and fading. This protection gives you peace of mind.
Pro Installation vs. DIY: What You Need to Know
Deciding to build a new deck is exciting, and it’s natural to wonder if you can tackle the project yourself. While the satisfaction of a DIY job is undeniable, a deck is a significant structural addition to your home. The difference between a weekend project and a lasting investment often comes down to the quality of the installation. Proper installation is what ensures your deck is safe, beautiful, and truly low-maintenance for years to come. It’s the critical step that turns a pile of high-quality composite boards into a seamless extension of your living space.
Choosing professional installation isn’t about giving up on a DIY dream; it’s about making a smart choice to protect your home and your investment. For a project of this scale, professional expertise guarantees that every board is perfectly placed and every safety standard is met. Think of it this way: you’ve invested in premium materials designed to last for decades; the installation should match that level of quality. While some seasoned DIYers might have the tools and experience, most homeowners find that hiring a pro is the most direct path to a flawless outdoor space without the stress and potential pitfalls of a complex construction project.
Prepare Your Site
Before the first board can be laid, the ground beneath your future deck needs to be perfectly prepared. This goes far beyond simply clearing away grass and rocks. Proper site preparation involves grading the land to ensure water drains away from your home’s foundation, preventing moisture issues down the line. The ground must also be leveled and compacted to create a stable base for the deck’s footings and support structure. This foundational work is physically demanding and technically precise. An improperly prepared site can compromise the entire deck’s integrity, leading to shifting and instability over time.
Check Local Building Codes and Permits
Any new deck construction in Riverside must comply with local building codes and will likely require a permit. These regulations are in place to ensure your deck is structurally sound and safe for you and your guests. For a DIYer, researching these codes, drawing up compliant plans, and managing the permit application process can be a confusing and time-consuming ordeal. Experienced professionals, on the other hand, are well-versed in local requirements. They can manage the entire process, from submitting paperwork to scheduling final inspections, ensuring your project is fully compliant without adding to your to-do list. It’s always best to consult with experienced professionals for personalized advice.
Follow Installation Best Practices
Composite decking materials have their own unique set of installation requirements that differ from traditional wood. Following these manufacturer-specific guidelines is essential for the deck’s performance and longevity. This includes details like precise gapping between boards to allow for thermal expansion and contraction, using the correct hidden fasteners for a clean look, and ensuring adequate ventilation beneath the deck to prevent moisture buildup. Getting these details right is what makes composite decking so durable and hassle-free. Professional installers have the right tools and expertise to ensure every step is done correctly, which also protects your manufacturer’s warranty.
Design Your Outdoor Space with Composite Decking
Your deck is more than just a place to put a grill; it’s an extension of your home’s living area. With composite decking, you have a versatile canvas to create an outdoor retreat that reflects your style and meets your family’s needs. From multi-level layouts to custom-built features, the design possibilities are nearly endless. Let’s explore how you can transform your backyard into a functional and beautiful space.
Get Design Ideas for Riverside Homes
Living in Riverside means you need an outdoor space that can handle the sun and heat. Composite decking is a fantastic, low-maintenance alternative to wood because it’s built to resist rot, splintering, and fading. This durability makes it a smart choice for creating a beautiful backyard oasis that lasts. You can design a deck that complements your home’s architecture, whether it’s a sleek, modern platform with clean lines or a rustic space with warm, earthy tones. Consider adding visual interest with different board patterns or creating distinct zones for dining and lounging to make the space feel larger and more organized.
Add Complementary Features
To make your deck truly special, think about the features that will enhance its function and style. Built-in elements can make your space feel custom and polished. Imagine adding built-in benches for extra seating, planters to bring in some greenery, or even a dedicated counter space for an outdoor kitchen. For sunny Riverside afternoons, a vinyl patio cover can provide essential shade and comfort. Don’t forget about lighting and railings—subtle LED lights can create a warm ambiance for evening gatherings, while stylish aluminum or vinyl railings add a finishing touch and ensure safety.
Review Safety Considerations
A great design is a safe design. One of the best things about composite decking is that it resists weathering, warping, and fading, which keeps the surface stable and secure over time. Unlike wood, composite materials won’t splinter, making the deck much safer for kids, pets, and bare feet. When planning your design, make sure your railings are secure and properly spaced. It’s also critical to ensure your deck’s structure meets local building codes. Working with a professional installer guarantees that every safety detail is handled correctly, giving you peace of mind as you enjoy your new outdoor space.
Where to Find Composite Decking in Riverside
Local Retailers and Showrooms
Sometimes, you just need to see and feel things for yourself. Visiting local retailers and showrooms in Riverside is the perfect way to get a real sense of composite decking materials. You can compare the textures, colors, and weights of different brands side-by-side, which is something you can’t quite capture through a screen. It’s also a great opportunity to get personalized advice from professionals who work with these materials every day. They can answer your specific questions and provide samples you can take home to see how they look in your own backyard’s lighting. Places like local lumberyards or specialized decking suppliers are excellent starting points to explore your options and gather inspiration for your project.
Online Stores and Marketplaces
If convenience is your top priority, shopping online is an incredibly efficient way to find composite decking. You can browse a huge variety of brands, styles, and price points right from your couch. Many online suppliers and contractor websites offer detailed product descriptions, photo galleries of completed projects, and helpful comparison tools. This allows you to do thorough research and narrow down your choices before making any commitments. For example, a quick search will show you companies that offer comprehensive decking services and provide all the information you need to understand the benefits of composite materials. This research phase is key to feeling confident in your final decision and finding a product that truly fits your home and budget.
A G Vinyl Fencing Services
When you’re looking for a team that handles everything from design to installation, A G Vinyl Fencing is a standout choice in the Riverside area. We specialize in creating beautiful and durable outdoor living spaces, and our expertise with composite decking ensures a flawless result. We believe a deck is more than just an addition to your home—it’s a long-term investment in your lifestyle. That’s why we focus on providing high-quality, low-maintenance composite materials that are built to last. Our team works with you to customize a design that complements your home’s aesthetic, ensuring your new deck is both functional and beautiful. We manage the entire installation process, so you can relax and look forward to enjoying your new space.
Western Deck Solutions
Another reputable company serving the Riverside community is Western Deck Solutions. They are well-known for their focus on composite decks that stand up to the elements, which is a major plus for any homeowner. Their team often highlights how composite materials resist common issues like weathering, warping, and fading, making them a practical and attractive choice for a long-lasting outdoor solution. If durability is at the top of your list, they are a solid option to consider as you gather quotes and compare different installers. Exploring their project gallery can give you a good idea of their work and the types of composite decking they recommend for local homes.
New Generation Construction
New Generation Construction is another name you might come across in your search. They frequently work with popular brands like Trex, which is known for its high-performance, low-maintenance decking products. Their emphasis on using quality materials means they build decks designed to endure for years with minimal upkeep from the homeowner. For anyone who loves the idea of a beautiful deck without the constant work of sanding, staining, and sealing, their approach is definitely appealing. Checking out their portfolio can help you see how they integrate brands like Trex decking into their projects, giving you more insight into what’s possible for your own outdoor space.
How to Find Deals on Composite Decking
A new composite deck is a fantastic addition to your home, but it’s also a significant investment. The good news is that with a little planning, you can find great deals without compromising on quality. Being a savvy shopper means looking for value, not just the lowest price tag. Here are a few practical strategies to help you get the best possible deal on your Riverside composite deck.
Look for Local Promotions and Discounts
Start your search by looking close to home. Local installers and suppliers in the Riverside area often run special promotions to connect with the community. Keep an eye on their websites or give them a call to ask about any current discounts. Sometimes, the best deals aren’t advertised widely. We offer affordable composite deck installation and can help you find long-lasting, low-maintenance options that fit your budget and outdoor space. By working with a local company, you not only support the community but also find experts who understand the specific needs of Riverside homes.
Take Advantage of Seasonal Sales
Timing can make a big difference in your project’s cost. The peak season for deck building is spring and summer, but you can often find better prices during the fall and winter. With less demand, contractors may offer discounts to keep their schedules full. Material suppliers also run end-of-season sales to clear out inventory. Since composite decks are designed to resist weathering, warping, and fading, buying and installing in the off-season won’t affect the quality of your beautiful, hassle-free outdoor space. Planning ahead is a simple way to make your budget stretch further.
Compare Quotes from Different Installers
Never settle for the first price you see. It’s always a smart move to get multiple quotes from reputable contractors who specialize in composite deck installation. When you compare offers, look beyond the bottom line. Ask what materials are being used, what the warranty covers, and what the timeline for completion is. A detailed quote helps you understand exactly what you’re paying for and prevents surprise costs later. This process allows you to compare apples to apples and choose an installer who offers the best combination of price, quality, and service for your project.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is composite decking really worth the higher upfront cost compared to wood? It’s a question that comes down to long-term value. While wood is less expensive to install initially, its lifetime costs add up quickly. When you factor in the annual expense of stains, sealers, and cleaning products—not to mention the hours you’ll spend on maintenance—composite often becomes the more economical choice over time. Think of it as an investment in your weekends; you get a beautiful deck that you can simply enjoy, rather than constantly work on.
Will a composite deck get too hot to walk on in the Riverside sun? This is a great question for our sunny climate. Any decking material will absorb heat in direct sunlight, and composite is no exception. However, the color you choose makes a huge difference. Lighter shades of gray, tan, and beige will stay significantly cooler to the touch than dark browns or deep grays. Many modern composite lines are also engineered to dissipate heat more effectively than older products, but choosing a lighter color is your best strategy for a more comfortable surface.
With so many brands and colors, how do I even start to choose? The number of options can feel overwhelming, but you can simplify the process by starting with your home. Look at the colors of your siding, trim, and roof to decide if you want a deck that blends in or provides a gentle contrast. From there, I always recommend getting physical samples. Seeing how the colors look next to your house and in your backyard’s specific lighting is the best way to make a confident choice.
You say composite decking is low-maintenance, but what does that really mean day-to-day? Low-maintenance means you can finally ditch the annual cycle of sanding, staining, and sealing that wood decks require. For a composite deck, routine care is incredibly simple. It mostly involves sweeping off leaves and dirt to keep the surface clear. A couple of times a year, a gentle wash with soap and water is all you need to remove any grime and keep it looking fresh. It’s about preventing buildup, not performing constant, heavy-duty labor.
What happens if a composite board gets a deep scratch or a bad stain? While composite decking is incredibly durable, it’s not indestructible. Unlike wood, you can’t sand down a deep gouge or a set-in stain. In most cases of significant damage, the best solution is to replace the entire board. This is why prevention is so important—using mats under grills and furniture pads can save you a lot of trouble. It also highlights the value of a professional installation, which ensures every board is set perfectly from the start.
Gary Andreasyan is at the forefront of A G Vinyl Fencing, setting the standard for high-quality fencing solutions. His expertise in vinyl fencing has positioned the company as a go-to for durable, low-maintenance fencing options that enhance property value and security. Gary’s commitment to customer satisfaction and innovative fencing solutions drives A G Vinyl Fencing’s success, providing clients with a range of styles and designs that meet their specific needs and preferences.
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