PVC vs. Composite Decking: What’s Actually the Difference?

TimberTech Coastline Vintage

When comparing low-maintenance decking, PVC and composite boards can look pretty similar. Both come in a range of colors and wood-grain finishes, and neither requires the regular staining or sealing that traditional wood decking often does. So, what actually sets them apart? The biggest difference is what they’re made of. Composite decking typically combines wood …

Read more

Deck Board Thickness Explained: 1x, 5/4, and 2x Decking

cumaru pregrooved decking 29554d13 a969 4527 b9cf 79b493a32867

When shopping for deck boards, you’ll often see sizes like 1×6, 5/4×6, and 2×6. These numbers refer to nominal lumber sizes, not the board’s finished dimensions. Thickness affects the deck’s appearance, how it feels underfoot, and how far the boards can span between joists. What Is the Difference Between 1x, 5/4, and 2x Decking? The …

Read more

Why Your Deck Frame May Rot Before Your Deck Boards (And What You Can Do About It)

wood vs aluminum deck framing

You spent good money on beautiful, long lasting deck boards. But what happens when the wood holding them up starts rotting years before the decking wears out? It’s a problem I’ve seen more often than you’d think, especially with decks that use premium hardwoods like Ipe, Cumaru, and Teak. Homeowners spend thousands of dollars upgrading …

Read more

Affordable Luxury Decking: Get the Look Without the High Price

teak deck 4

Ipe is often considered the gold standard for hardwood decking. It’s exceptionally hard, naturally resistant to decay, and can last for decades with proper installation. However, it can also cost more than other tropical hardwoods. Fortunately, Ipe isn’t your only option. Several other hardwoods offer attractive colors, natural durability, and long potential service lives at …

Read more

Should You Oil Ipe Before or After Installation?

deck with ipe oil sm

If you’re installing an Ipe deck, you might be wondering when to apply Ipe Oil. Should you finish the boards before installing them, or wait until the deck is built? For most Ipe decks, we recommend applying the oil after installation. However, if your deck has limited ventilation underneath, finishing all four sides of the …

Read more

Is Composite Decking Really Maintenance Free?

composite deck cleaning

If you’ve been shopping for a new deck, you’ve probably heard the phrase “maintenance free composite decking” more times than you can count. After all, decking manufacturers love to talk about how little work their products need compared to traditional wood decking. No sanding, no staining, and no sealing. Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it? Well, …

Read more

Cumaru Decking vs. Composite Decking: Cost, Maintenance, and Lifespan

cumaru decking vs composite

When you’re planning a new deck, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing the right decking material. After all, most homeowners want a deck that looks great, lasts for decades, and doesn’t require them to spend every weekend cleaning, sanding, or staining. And really, who wants to spend their Saturday maintaining a deck …

Read more