PVC for Decking: What Is It?
Deck PVC, like other types of polyvinyl chloride or PVC is a type of plastic. Along with composite decking, these plastic decking boards are low-maintenance alternatives to wood decking. A typical PVC deck board consists of a solid plastic core with capping on three or four sides that creates the look and texture of wood. The caps also provide durability and additional protection from damage and moisture.
You can find PVC deck boards with wood grain textures in shades of brown and gray that mimic the look and grain of walnut, hickory, mahogany and more.
PVC deck board samples let you see how the decking looks in your landscape.
PVC Decking Boards vs. Other Decking
PVC deck boards, composite boards and traditional softwood boards are the most common options for decking. Each material has benefits and considerations and the one you choose depends on factors such as look, maintenance, cost and longevity.
PVC Deck Boards vs. Composite Boards
Both PVC decking and composite decking include plastic, but while composite boards include both plastic and natural wood fibers or wood dust, PVC boards are fully plastic decking boards. Understanding other differences helps you make the best choice for your deck:
Benefits of PVC decking boards over composite decking:
- PVC decking resists water better.
- PVC decking is lighter, making it easier to work with.
- PVC decking typically has a longer lifespan.
- PVC decking has better mold resistance.
Benefits of composite over PVC decking boards:
- Composite decking often costs less to purchase.
- Composite decking looks more like natural wood.
- Composite decking expands and contracts less with temperature changes.
PVC Deck Boards vs. Wood Boards
The difference between a manufactured material and natural wood is a factor in other differences:
Benefits of PVC decking boards over standard wood decking:
- PVC decking is lighter, making it easier to work with.
- PVC decking has higher resistance to rot, fading, moisture, ultraviolet (UV) rays and insects.
- PVC decking maintenance typically requires periodic cleaning rather than sanding, staining and sealing.
- PVC reduces expenses over time with less maintenance and a longer lifespan.
Benefits of standard wood over PVC decking boards:
- Wood decking costs less to purchase.
- Wood decking offers a greater natural warmth, grain, texture and feel.
- Wood decking often offers better traction when wet.
- Wood decking takes on different looks with different exterior stains.
PVC Deck Board Installation Tips
Installation of PVC deck boards varies by type and manufacturer, so follow the steps for your decking. Here are some general tips:
- Follow all local building codes. Obtain permits and schedule inspections as necessary.
- Wear eye protection and any other specified safety gear.
- Ensure the deck frame is level, sturdy and has the necessary blocking between joists.
- Apply waterproof tape to the joist tops to reduce the potential for water damage to the frame.
- Avoid installation near sources of high heat or intense reflected heat.
- Keep the decking as cool as possible before installation to reduce the risk of excessive gapping between board ends.
- You typically install squared PVC deck boards by driving screws through the faces of the boards.
- Boards with groves on both edges install with concealed fasteners.
- Use the fastener type, number, spacing and installation depth the manufacturer specifies.
Find the PVC Decking Boards You Need at Lowe’s
Low-maintenance PVC deck boards offer high durability and a long lifespan, two key elements of a deck that looks great for years to come. Browse the PVC decking on Lowes.com and find the fasteners and tools you need for installation. Or stop by your local Lowe’s and talk to a Red Vest associate about your decking needs and deck installation plans. They’ll help you find everything you need to do the job right.