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Which is better?
PVC boards are a budget-friendly choice that require minimal maintenance. But when we compare composite vs PVC products, which is the better choice for your project and why?
What’s the difference between PVC boards and composite boards?
Many people use the terms PVC/uPVC and composite interchangeably, but it’s important to be clear on the terminology and difference between plastic and composite products before you make your purchase.
- PVC
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) boards are a form of plastic/vinyl that contains plasticiser additives that make it a softer and more flexible material. - uPVC
uPVC (un-plasticised polyvinyl chloride) is another form of plastic/vinyl without any additives. This makes it a more rigid and durable material. - Composite
In comparison to PVC and UPVC, composite boards, also known as wood plastic composite (WPC) boards, are made by blending synthetic materials with natural wood fibre.
So, should I buy composite or PVC?
Maintenance
Both uPVC/PVC and composite require minimal maintenance. They both offer stain and mould resistance which is perfect for bouts of cold or damp weather.
The main disadvantage of uPVC and PVC vinyl boards is that it is water resistant but slippery in wet conditions. This means that you may spend more money on rubber mats, oils, or non-slip strips to fix the issue if you choose vinyl decking.
Alternatively, composite decking provides excellent grip due to its natural wood-like texture. It also has excellent moisture resistance with the added beauty and slip-resistance of natural wood.
The main disadvantage of uPVC and PVC vinyl boards is that it is water resistant but slippery in wet conditions. This means that you may spend more money on rubber mats, oils, or non-slip strips to fix the issue if you choose vinyl decking.
Alternatively, composite decking provides excellent grip due to its natural wood-like texture. It also has excellent moisture resistance with the added beauty and slip-resistance of natural wood.
Cost
You will usually find that uPVC boards are far more expensive than WPC boards. We’d recommend composite products if you’re on a tight budget, as it is a great long-term investment for a high quality, sustainable and eco-friendly solution.
Vinyl decking can cost £20 to £125 per metre, whereas our cheapest composite decking starts at £25.74, and this includes all of the incredible aesthetic and maintenance benefits of having high-quality WPC decking.
It’s also important to note that price reflects quality when buying vinyl, so you’ll probably be spending a lot more than expected if you choose uPVC/PVC.
Vinyl decking can cost £20 to £125 per metre, whereas our cheapest composite decking starts at £25.74, and this includes all of the incredible aesthetic and maintenance benefits of having high-quality WPC decking.
It’s also important to note that price reflects quality when buying vinyl, so you’ll probably be spending a lot more than expected if you choose uPVC/PVC.
Lifespan
Put simply, composite boards have a much longer lifespan than PVC boards. Our composite decking for example. has a brilliant extended warranty and lasts around 25 years!
Vinyl decking has a much shorter lifespan than composite decking due to the fact that it is made of 100% synthetic plastic. When plastics are exposed to extreme temperatures, the material will weaken.
On the other hand, composite decking is designed to flex, expand, and contract with extreme weather changes. This is due to the combination of wood fibres and plastic polymers, creating a fusion of materials than can handle heat expansion and contraction.
Our composite cladding and composite fencing also comes with brilliant extended warranties ranging from 10-25 years.
Vinyl decking has a much shorter lifespan than composite decking due to the fact that it is made of 100% synthetic plastic. When plastics are exposed to extreme temperatures, the material will weaken.
On the other hand, composite decking is designed to flex, expand, and contract with extreme weather changes. This is due to the combination of wood fibres and plastic polymers, creating a fusion of materials than can handle heat expansion and contraction.
Our composite cladding and composite fencing also comes with brilliant extended warranties ranging from 10-25 years.
Thinking of adding a composite solution to your property?
Browse our wide range of composite products or call the Greensquares team on 0800 028 8756 to discuss your project with a composite expert!