Is Composite Decking As Strong As Wood?

A Strong Deck All Comes Down to the Framing

Is composite decking as strong as wood? It’s a great question to ask, especially if you’d like to use your deck for large gatherings or to support something heavy like a hot tub. Here’s our straightforward answer about the strength of composite decking compared to wood.

What’s Stronger: Composite Decking or Wood?

Technically speaking, it depends on several factors. What kind of wood is it? (Pine? Redwood? Cedar?) What quality is the wood? How old is the lumber? What brand of composite decking are you using? The specific amount of weight that deck boards can bear varies depending on your answers to these questions.

Generally speaking, composite decking is strong, but not always stronger than wood. It’s more flexible than wood, but that doesn’t mean it’s weak. It just means you need to support it in different ways.

The Framing Is What Makes a Deck Strong

If you’re going to take anything away from this article, it’s that the real strength of a deck comes from what’s underneath it—the frame, joists and posts—not the boards that lay on top. Today, most decks use pressure-treated lumber for these framing components. The pressure treatment process sucks out air and pushes preservatives into it, resulting in a strong, tough base.

Installing wood floor for patio deck with new wooden planks

Scenic view of two comfortable chairs on a patio

Composite Decks Need Tighter Joist Spacing

Composite decking is naturally flexible, so for a solid feel underfoot, it requires the joists to be spaced closer together—typically 12 inches apart with composite boards, as opposed to 16 inches apart with wooden boards. (If it helps, think of joists like slats in a bunk bed; the closer they are, the more support they give.) This small adjustment during construction pays off with a longer-lasting, low-maintenance deck surface that withstands years of use without warping, rotting or splintering.

Planning for Heavy Use? Work With a Professional Decking Company

If you’re planning a second-story deck or want to put a hot tub on it or host large parties, it’s best to work with an experienced deck company or consult a structural engineer because these aren’t things you want to guess on. Many decks with hot tubs need extra posts, doubled joists or reinforced beams. Even if you’re tackling a DIY decking project, it’s worth getting a professional opinion to make sure your plans are safe.

Dutch Way Is Charlottesville’s Trusted Composite Decking Company

As you explore materials for your deck project, the team at Dutch Way can walk you through options and planning. We serve Charlottesville, Harrisonburg and throughout the Shenandoah Valley and source only the best brands of composite decking, such as Wolf and Fiberon. Get in touch for a free estimate today.

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