{"id":5221,"date":"2026-01-27T16:36:51","date_gmt":"2026-01-27T16:36:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-gb\/?post_type=advice-centre&amp;p=5221"},"modified":"2026-01-27T16:36:51","modified_gmt":"2026-01-27T16:36:51","slug":"composite-vs-pvc-decking-choosing-the-right-materia","status":"publish","type":"advice-centre","link":"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-us\/advice-centre\/composite-vs-pvc-decking-choosing-the-right-materia\/","title":{"rendered":"Composite vs PVC\u00a0decking: Choosing the right materia"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-h3\" id=\"h-article-highlights\">Article highlights\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Popular alternatives to traditional wood decking:\u00a0<\/strong>Although only composite decking replicates the classic wooden look without any of the natural material\u2019s drawbacks.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Both are manufactured materials:\u00a0<\/strong>PVC and composite decking\u00a0offers\u00a0high durability and\u00a0low maintenance.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Differences between PVC and composite:\u00a0<\/strong>Both decking materials also have several similarities, including\u00a0high\u00a0scratch, stain, and slip resistance and long-lasting qualities.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Composite decking is more environmentally friendly:\u00a0<\/strong>Compared to PVC, which is made from plastic, composite decking uses\u00a0renewable\u00a0materials for a more sustainable choice.\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Choosing a decking material depends on your needs:\u00a0<\/strong>Ultimately, the\u00a0decision relies on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and your garden\u2019s specifications.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Garden design trends are constantly changing, from&nbsp;<strong>patio tiles<\/strong>&nbsp;to<strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-deckboard-complete-guide-materials-benefits-and-millboard-difference\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>deckboards<\/strong><\/a>. There are so many materials available that offer more than traditional landscaping&nbsp;materials, with both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern manufactured products, such as&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>composite<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;and PVC, require less general upkeep than natural&nbsp;<strong>wooden decking<\/strong>, and can provide perfect creative solutions for outside living spaces.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide,&nbsp;we\u2019ll&nbsp;explore the key features and&nbsp;<strong>benefits of composite decking<\/strong>&nbsp;and PVC, comparing them on critical factors and when the material is most suitable.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Click on one of the sections below to explore in detail:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Understanding composite decking: key features and benefits<\/strong>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Composite decking offers the look of wood with the durability of plastic \u2013 find out more here.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Exploring PVC: pros and cons as a decking material<\/strong>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>PVC decking is made from plastic and is long-lasting \u2013 discover the material\u2019s features.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Comparing composite and PVC\u00a0decking\u00a0materials<\/strong>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Compare the two decking materials on cost, versatility, sustainability, and longevity&nbsp;features.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Maintenance and cleaning: Is composite decking or PVC better?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Discover how easy PVC and composite decking is to&nbsp;maintain&nbsp;and clean.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Comparing the costs of composite and PVC decking<\/strong>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Find the various costs to consider before buying composite or PVC decking.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>What are the design options and versatility? &#8211; Composite vs PVC<\/strong>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Discover the stylistic options available for the decking materials and creative ways to use them in your outdoor space.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Should you choose composite\u00a0or PVC for your decking?<\/strong>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Using the guide and the featured points,&nbsp;decide which decking material is right for your garden \u2013 composite vs PVC decking.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Frequently asked questions<\/strong>\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Read the most common queries on composite decking and PVC decking.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-h3\" id=\"h-understanding-composite-decking-key-features-and-benefits\">Understanding composite decking: key features and benefits\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Composite decking<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;is a modern, engineered material made from a mix of wood fibres and recycled plastic. Designed to mimic the natural beauty of wood while offering superior durability, composite materials have become popular types of decking among homeowners looking for a long-lasting solution for their outdoor space.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the standout features of composite decking is its resilience. Unlike traditional wood, composite decking is highly resistant to rot, warping, and insect damage. This makes it particularly well-suited for areas with varying weather conditions, where timber may deteriorate more quickly.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Composite decking is also renowned for its&nbsp;low maintenance, requiring no staining, sealing, or sanding \u2013 a simple clean with soap and water is often enough to keep it looking its best.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-uppercase\" id=\"h-key-features-nbsp\">Key features:&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Long-lasting:\u00a0<\/strong>It lasts significantly longer than traditional\u00a0wood decking, reducing replacement costs.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Durability:\u00a0<\/strong>Resistant to rot, warping, and splintering due to its protective plastic shell.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Sustainability:\u00a0<\/strong>Made\u00a0using\u00a0recycled materials, reducing waste and a greener alternative to natural wood.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Moisture resistance:\u00a0<\/strong>Designed to repel water and reduce the risk of decay.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Consistent appearance:\u00a0<\/strong>Retains\u00a0its look over time without the need for staining or sealing.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-uppercase\" id=\"h-millboard-composite-decking-nbsp\">Millboard composite decking&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In the world of composite decking, Millboard stands out due to its unique designs and characteristics. Our decking boards are created with moulds from vintage master boards to bring the authentic wood look and feel to life.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Millboard composite decking<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;is made from a polyurethane resin&nbsp;core, and&nbsp;has a&nbsp;Lastane\u00ae top layer for&nbsp;high resistance to&nbsp;scratches and stains.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-us\/en-gb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/01\/Case-Study_MDE176J_Enhanced-Grain_Jarrah_Project-Imagery_Balcony.jpg\"><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-us\/en-gb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/01\/MDW200V_Weathed-Oak_Vintage_Hero_Lakeside.jpg\"><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-us\/en-gb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/01\/MDW200R-Weathered-Oak_Embered_Hero-2_Model-2.jpg\"><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Shop&nbsp;our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\/enhanced-grain\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Enhanced Grain collection<\/strong><\/a><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Shop&nbsp;our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\/enhanced-grain\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Enhanced Grain collection<\/strong><\/a><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\">Shop&nbsp;our&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\/enhanced-grain\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Enhanced Grain collection<\/strong><\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\">Request Free Samples<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-uppercase\" id=\"h-exploring-pvc-pros-and-cons-as-a-decking-material\">Exploring PVC: pros and cons as a decking material<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>PVC decking is another engineered material, made entirely from polyvinyl chloride (a type of plastic). Like composite decking, PVC is designed to withstand the elements, offering excellent resistance to scratches, rot, and insect damage. It is often chosen for its lightweight composition and easy installation, making it a convenient option for DIY projects compared to a traditional wood deck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Due to its moisture-resistant qualities, PVC is a good decking choice for areas near water, such as poolside or docks. The plastic material also means this decking\u00a0option\u00a0has a long-life span and is often easy to\u00a0maintain.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-uppercase\" id=\"h-key-features-nbsp-0\">Key features:&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Durability:<\/strong>\u00a0Highly resistant to rot, mould, mildew, and insect damage, ensuring long-term performance.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Recyclability:\u00a0<\/strong>Some PVC decking options are recyclable, depending on the manufacturer.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lightweight:\u00a0<\/strong>Easier to handle and install, making it a practical choice for many renovation projects.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Heat and moisture resistance:\u00a0<\/strong>Fully synthetic, non-porous and can withstand\u00a0high temperatures, although it may become hot underfoot,\u00a0in direct sunlight.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>While&nbsp;highly durable, its plastic construction can make it less appealing to those seeking a natural aesthetic. Although some modern PVC boards mimic woodgrain patterns, they rarely achieve the same authenticity as composite decking.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-uppercase\" id=\"h-comparing-composite-and-pvc-decking-materials-nbsp\">Comparing composite and PVC decking materials&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Both composite and PVC decking have some great advantages compared to traditional wood, and knowing their differences can help you make your choice. Consider the qualities you are looking for and what will be most beneficial for your outdoor space, including longevity, cost,&nbsp;visual&nbsp;appeal&nbsp;and the care they&nbsp;require.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the table below, compare both PVC and composite decking to help your make your choice:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Feature<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td><strong>Composite&nbsp;decking<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td><strong>PVC&nbsp;decking<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Cost<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td>Moderate to high&nbsp;<\/td><td>Moderate to high&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Durability<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td>Highly durable; resists rot, insects, and warping&nbsp;<\/td><td>Extremely durable;&nbsp;good&nbsp;moisture resistance&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Sustainability<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td>Can&nbsp;be made&nbsp;from recycled materials&nbsp;<\/td><td>Can be made from recycled materials&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Slip resistance<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td>Highly&nbsp;slip-resistance&nbsp;<\/td><td>May be slippery due to the plastic&nbsp;finish; depends on the manufacturer and quality&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Design&nbsp;options<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td>Wide range of natural wood tones and textures&nbsp;<\/td><td>Limited; some woodgrain options but less authentic&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Maintenance<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td>Low maintenance&nbsp;<\/td><td>Very low&nbsp;maintenance&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Heat Retention<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td>Can get warm but varies by colour&nbsp;<\/td><td>Can become&nbsp;very hot&nbsp;in direct sunlight&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Lifespan<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/td><td>25\u201330+ years with proper care&nbsp;<\/td><td>30+ years;&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-h3\" id=\"h-maintenance-and-cleaning-is-composite-decking-or-pvc-better\">Maintenance and cleaning: Is composite decking or PVC better?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Regarding&nbsp;maintenance, composite and PVC decking are&nbsp;relatively easy&nbsp;to care for compared to traditional wood. Composite decking requires occasional cleaning with a gentle soap-and-water solution or a specialised composite deck cleaner. Stains like grease or wine can be wiped away without permanent damage.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>PVC decking is similarly&nbsp;low maintenance. Since it is non-porous, it&nbsp;doesn\u2019t&nbsp;absorb stains and is easy to clean with hot, soapy water and a soft-bristle brush. Its resistance to mould and mildew makes it ideal for humid environments. However, scratches on PVC decking can be more visible than on composite boards, as the colour does not extend through the material.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-h3\" id=\"h-comparing-the-costs-of-composite-and-pvc-decking\">Comparing the costs of composite and PVC decking\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The cost of decking materials is an important consideration for most homeowners.&nbsp;<strong>Composite&nbsp;<\/strong>and&nbsp;PVC decking&nbsp;costs vary&nbsp;depending on brand, style, and quality. Composite decking is often seen as offering better value due to its&nbsp;sustainability&nbsp;and&nbsp;realistic appearance.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over the long term, the reduced maintenance costs of both materials compared to timber can lead to significant savings.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Installation costs<\/strong>&nbsp;for both materials are&nbsp;generally comparable.&nbsp;Millboard composite decking requires certain specialist&nbsp;fixings&nbsp;to ensure&nbsp;high-quality installations. We have&nbsp;approved installers across the country who are trained to our highest standards and are well-versed in the specific requirements needed to&nbsp;install&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Millboard composite&nbsp;decking<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/envello-composite-cladding\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>cladding<\/strong><\/a><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong>boards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Using an expert will help&nbsp;to provide the best&nbsp;installation\u2013&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/find-an-installer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>find your nearest Millboard-approved installer<\/strong><\/a><strong>&nbsp;here<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-h3\" id=\"h-what-are-the-design-options-and-versatility-composite-vs-pvc-decking\">What are the design options and versatility? &#8211; Composite vs PVC\u00a0decking\u00a0<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Both materials can create unique outdoor spaces, from multi-level decks to seamless pool surrounds. However, composite decking\u2019s superior aesthetics and range of styles give it the edge for homeowners seeking a premium look.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>PVC decking boards, while available in&nbsp;various colours, often falls short of mimicking the natural look of wood. However, its lighter weight makes it a practical choice for projects like rooftop decks or docks, where&nbsp;material weight&nbsp;might come into play.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, composite decking is available in a broad range of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/blog\/millboard-guide-colour?_gl=1*1rymclr*_up*MQ..&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwmt24BhDPARIsAJFYKk0jlomiKUs9PYaijuf8nYS9P2_pcHY_asDgfakY-F_symFC-uO3xL4aAlfrEALw_wcB\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>colours<\/strong><\/a>, textures, and finishes. This allows homeowners to create&nbsp;practically any&nbsp;design in their outdoor space, from a rustic wood-like aesthetic to a sleek, modern look with darker hues.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Millboard decking<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;boards&nbsp;offer unique patterns&nbsp;to further replicate the classic wood aesthetic. With subtle differences in shades and grains, our composite decking boards look natural and easy to mix and match with other hues.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Browse the\u00a0different colours\u00a0below to find your perfect shade:\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-us\/en-gb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/01\/MDE176C_Enhanced_Grain_Coppered_Oak_Overhead-Laying-Pattern-1.jpg\"><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-us\/en-gb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/01\/MDE176R_Enhanced_Grain_Burnt_Cedar_Overhead-Laying-Pattern.jpg\"><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-us\/en-gb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/01\/MDL200C_Lasta-Grip_Coppered_Oak_Overhead-Laying-Pattern.jpg\"><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\/enhanced-grain\/coppered-oak\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Enhanced Grain:<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;Coppered Oak&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\/enhanced-grain\/burnt-cedar\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Enhanced Grain:<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;Burnt Cedar&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\/lasta-grip\/coppered-oak\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Lasta-Grip:<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;Coppered Oak&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-us\/en-gb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/01\/MDE176Y_Enhanced_Grain_Ebony_Grey_Overhead-Laying-Pattern-1-scaled.jpg\"><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-us\/en-gb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/01\/MDW200V_Weathered_Oak_Vintage.jpg\"><\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/millboard.com\/en-us\/en-gb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2026\/01\/MDW200D_Weathered-Oak_Driftwood_Overhead-Laying-Pattern-2.jpg\"><\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\/enhanced-grain\/ebony-grey\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Enhanced Grain:<\/strong><\/a><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong>Ebony Grey<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\/weathered-oak\/vintage\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Weathered Oak:<\/strong><\/a>&nbsp;Vintage&nbsp;<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-center\" data-align=\"center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/composite-decking-collections\/weathered-oak\/driftwood\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Weathered Oak:<\/strong><\/a><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong>Driftwood<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>For more information, read\u00a0<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/blog\/millboard-guide-colour\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>our complete Millboard guide to colour<\/strong><\/a><strong>\u00a0here.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-h3\" id=\"h-should-you-choose-composite-or-pvc-for-your-decking-nbsp\">Should you choose composite or PVC for your decking?&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When deciding between composite and PVC decking, the right choice&nbsp;ultimately depends&nbsp;on your priorities. For homeowners seeking a natural aesthetic,&nbsp;a nicer feel underfoot, and a wide range of design options, composite decking is the clear winner. At the end of the day, its combination of durability, sustainability, and&nbsp;low maintenance&nbsp;make it a versatile and long-lasting choice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, PVC decking excels in environments where moisture resistance is paramount, effectively preventing mould and mildew growth. If&nbsp;you\u2019re&nbsp;building a deck near a pool or in a particularly humid area, PVC\u2019s non-porous surface may be worth considering despite its aesthetic limitations.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In most cases, composite decking strikes the ideal balance between performance, aesthetics, and&nbsp;long-term value, making it the better choice to create a beautiful, functional outdoor space.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have any questions on your composite decking or would like more advice on flooring options,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.millboard.com\/en-gb\/contact\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>speak to the Millboard team today<\/strong><\/a>! Call us at 024 7643 9943.<\/p>\n\n\n<section data-allow-multiple=\"false\" class=\"accordion wp-block alignfull\">\n    <div class=\"accordion__inner\">\n\n        <div class=\"accordion__header\">\n\n            \n                            <h3 class=\"accordion__header__heading\">Frequently asked questions<\/h3>\n            \n            \n            \n        <\/div>\n\n        <div class=\"accordion__items\">\n<div class=\"accordion__item wp-block\">\n    <button aria-expanded=\"true\" aria-controls=\"accordion-panel-1\" type=\"button\" class=\"accordion__item__trigger js-accordion-button\" id=\"is-composite-or-pvc-decking-more-durable-in-wet-conditions\"><h3 class=\"accordion__item__heading\">Is composite or PVC decking more durable in wet conditions?<\/h3><\/button>\n\n    <div id=\"accordion-panel-1\" class=\"accordion__item__panel js-expandable-element\" aria-labelledby=\"is-composite-or-pvc-decking-more-durable-in-wet-conditions\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__item__panel__inner\">\n            <p>While both materials are highly durable, PVC decking is entirely non-porous, making it suited for extremely wet conditions such as poolside or coastal areas.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"accordion__item wp-block\">\n    <button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-panel-2\" type=\"button\" class=\"accordion__item__trigger js-accordion-button\" id=\"can-composite-or-pvc-decking-be-recycled\"><h3 class=\"accordion__item__heading\">Can composite or PVC decking be recycled?<\/h3><\/button>\n\n    <div id=\"accordion-panel-2\" class=\"accordion__item__panel js-expandable-element\" aria-labelledby=\"can-composite-or-pvc-decking-be-recycled\" hidden=\"true\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n        <div class=\"accordion__item__panel__inner\">\n            <p>Composite decking is often made from recycled materials, but it is not always recyclable itself. PVC decking, while synthetic, can sometimes be recycled, depending on the manufacturer.<\/p>\n<p>At Millboard, we prioritise sustainability through our innovative products and processes. Over a third of the raw materials used in manufacturing composite decking boards are recycled and reprocessed into our boards.<\/p>\n<p>Read more about our sustainability goals and accreditations here.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading is-style-typestyle-uppercase\" id=\"h-related-content\">Related content<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Composite vs wood<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Composite vs patio<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Composite vs concrete<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Article highlights\u00a0 Choosing a decking material depends on your needs:\u00a0Ultimately, the\u00a0decision relies on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and your garden\u2019s&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"content-type":"","footnotes":""},"advice_category":[],"class_list":["post-5221","advice-centre","type-advice-centre","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Composite vs PVC Decking: Which Should You Choose<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Manufactured products, like PVC and composite, have many benefits for outdoor living spaces. 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