If you live in Toronto or the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), you might want a nice deck for your home. A deck is a great place to sit outside, relax, have meals, and enjoy fresh air. When you want to build a deck, one important choice is what material to use. The two most popular choices are wood and composite decking.
In this article, we will explain the difference between wood and composite decks. We will also talk about how each material needs care to stay strong and look good. This will help you decide which one is best for your home in Toronto or the GTA.
What is wood decking?
Wood decking is made from real wood. People have built wood decks for a long time. Wood feels natural and looks beautiful. There are many types of wood you can use for decks. Some common types are cedar, pine, and pressure-treated wood.
Wood is strong and can last many years if you take care of it. It can be cut and shaped easily to fit your deck design. Many people like wood because it feels warm and looks natural in their garden or backyard.
What is composite decking?
Composite decking is made from a mix of wood fibres and plastic. It is not real wood but looks like wood. Composite boards are made in factories. They are designed to be strong and last a long time.
Composite decking is popular because it needs less care than wood. It does not get damaged by bugs, and it does not rot easily. Composite decking comes in many colours and styles, so you can pick the one you like.
Wood decking benefits
- Natural look and feel
Wood has a warm, natural look that many people like. It fits well with gardens and plants around your home. - Customizable
You can cut and shape wood boards to fit your deck design exactly how you want it. - Strong and sturdy
Wood decks are strong and can hold heavy furniture or many people. - Less expensive at first
Wood is usually cheaper to buy than composite decking when you build the deck.
Composite decking benefits
- Low maintenance
Composite boards do not need painting or staining like wood does. They keep their colour for a long time. - Resistant to rot and bugs
Composite does not rot or get eaten by insects. This is good for wet or humid places like Toronto. - Long-lasting
Composite decking lasts many years without getting damaged. - Many colour options
You can choose from many colours and styles to match your home.
How wood decking needs care in Toronto and the GTA
Wood decking looks great but needs care to stay nice, especially in Toronto and the GTA. Our weather changes a lot through the year. In summer, it can be hot and sunny. In winter, there is snow, ice, and cold winds. These changes affect wood decks.
1. Cleaning your wood deck
You should clean your wood deck at least once or twice a year. Use a broom to remove leaves and dirt. Then wash the deck with a special wood cleaner or soap and water. This stops mould and dirt from building up.
2. Sealing and staining
Wood needs to be sealed or stained every 2-3 years. Sealing protects the wood from water and sun damage. Staining also helps keep the wood colour fresh and stops it from turning grey.
3. Fixing damage
Check your deck for loose nails, broken boards, or cracks. Fix these problems early to stop bigger damage later.
4. Protecting from snow and ice
In winter, clear snow from your deck with a plastic shovel (not metal). Avoid salt because salt can damage the wood.
5. Watch for bugs
Sometimes bugs like termites or ants can hurt wood decks. Check your deck regularly and call a pest expert if you see bugs.
How composite decking needs care in Toronto and the GTA
Composite decking needs less care but still needs some attention, especially in places like Toronto and the GTA where the weather changes a lot.
1. Cleaning your composite deck
Clean your composite deck every few months with soap and water or a composite deck cleaner. Use a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt and stains.
2. Avoiding stains
Composite decks can get stains from food, drinks, or oil. Clean spills quickly to stop permanent marks.
3. Preventing scratches
Composite is strong but can scratch. Avoid dragging heavy furniture on it without protection.
4. Snow and ice care
Remove snow with a plastic shovel. Avoid using metal tools or salt on composite decks because they can damage the surface.
5. Check for mould
Sometimes mould can grow on composite decks if they stay wet for long. Clean mould with special mould cleaner made for composite decks.
Which one is better for Toronto and the GTA?
Both wood and composite decks work well in Toronto and the GTA. It depends on what you want for your home and how much care you can give.
- If you like the natural look and enjoy working on your deck, wood might be better for you. But remember, wood needs more cleaning, sealing, and fixing.
- If you want a low maintenance deck that looks nice for many years with little work, composite is a great choice. It costs more first, but saves time and work later.
Cost comparison for wood and composite decking
- Wood decks usually cost less to build at the start. Materials and labour can be cheaper. But you will spend money on cleaning products, sealants, and repairs over time.
- Composite decks cost more when you build them. But they need less money spent on repairs and care later. This can save money in the long run.
Environmental impact
- Wood decking is made from natural trees. If you use wood from sustainable forests, it is better for the environment.
- Composite decking uses plastic and wood fibres. Some types recycle old plastic, which is good, but it still uses more chemicals to make.
Tips for choosing the right decking for your home
- Think about your budget
Choose wood if you want lower first cost and don’t mind extra care. Choose composite if you want to spend more now and save time later. - Think about how much care you can do
Wood needs more work every year. Composite is easier but still needs cleaning. - Think about the look you want
Wood looks natural and warm. Composite comes in many colours and styles. - Think about how long you want your deck to last
Composite can last 25+ years. Wood can last 15-20 years with care. - Talk to professionals
Jacko Contracting can help you choose the best option for your home in Toronto or the GTA.
How Jacko Contracting can help you
At Jacko Contracting, we build both wood and composite decks. We work with you to find the best material for your home, your style, and your budget.
We know Toronto and GTA weather well. We build decks that can last in hot summers and cold winters. We use good materials and strong designs to keep your deck safe and beautiful.
We also offer advice on care and maintenance. We can help clean, seal, or repair your wood deck or keep your composite deck looking great.
Conclusion
Choosing between wood and composite decking is an important decision for your home in Toronto or the GTA. Both materials have good points and need care in different ways.
Wood decking is natural and beautiful but needs regular cleaning and sealing. Composite decking is easier to care for and lasts longer but costs more at the start.
Think about your budget, how much work you want to do, and the look you want. Talk to experts like Jacko Contracting to get the best deck for your home.
A good deck will give you many years of happy outdoor time with your family and friends.
