Composite decking vs wood decking: winter durability

With winter here to stay and a storm or two already under our belts, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about how your outdoor spaces will handle the colder months and start planning for next year’s garden. If you’re considering new fencing or decking but aren’t sure whether to choose composite or traditional wood, here’s why composite is the superior choice when it comes to style, longevity, and maintenance.

At North Valley Composites, we’re experts in composite decking and composite fencing, offering a range of stunning shades to enhance your garden. If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next decking project, keep reading to find out why composite has become a firm favourite among homeowners!

Composite is resistance to moisture

Winter weather brings a variety of moisture – think rain, snow, ice, and frost – which can really wreak havoc on traditional wood decking because it’s so porous. This can lead to issues like swelling, warping, and even wood rot. Plus, as the temperature changes with snow and ice, wood expands and contracts, creating cracks and splinters. These imperfections not only make your deck look tired but can also make it unsafe, especially if you have children or pets.

Composite, on the other hand, is made from a blend of wood fibres and plastic; it’s designed to resist moisture. This means you won’t have to worry about your deck swelling, warping, or rotting no matter the weather—rain, snow, or frost—and your composite deck will be strong, durable and stylish! What’s more, to give you peace of mind, our 3D boards come with a standard 12-month warranty, and you can extend it up to 10 years!

Composite is low maintenance and hassle free

As nice as authentic timber looks, we know how time-consuming it can be to maintain wood decking and fencing. Wood needs to be periodically sealed, stained, and treated to prevent damage from moisture, UV rays, and daily wear and tear. Still, even with the best care, wood can still fade, splinter, or crack under harsh winter conditions, unlike composite fencing, which requires minimal maintenance. Composite fencing is designed to stand the test of time with little effort on your part. A simple cleaning with warm, soapy water is all it takes to keep your deck/fence looking pristine, meaning you’ll spend less time on upkeep and more time enjoying your garden, even throughout winter.

Composite is an eco-friendly choice

As well as being sturdy, sleek, and stylish, composite decking and fencing are also incredibly sustainable choices for your outdoor space. Manufactured from a blend of natural timber and 100% recycled plastic, composite offers a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood. Unlike wood, which requires frequent maintenance and is prone to weather-related damage, composite is designed to endure all seasons, lasting for decades with minimal upkeep.

Many people assume that traditional wood decking or fencing can be recycled after its use, but this isn’t always the case. The treatments applied to wood throughout its lifespan often make it non-recyclable, meaning it ends up in landfills. Choosing composite fencing helps reduce this waste, offering a long-lasting solution that’s both environmentally friendly and cost-effective. When you invest in composite, you’re not just improving your outdoor space – you’re making a choice that’s better for the planet and your budget!

So if you’re thinking about your garden plans for next Spring, check out our composite fencing and decking ranges right here on our site. We have a stunning variety of shades like Golden Oak and Driftwood to choose from. If you have any questions about composites durability or any of the other points we mentioned, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 01282 677300, and we’ll be happy to see how we can help!