The Benefits of Wood-Free Plastic Decking

Written on 07/02/2025
Dave Cathcart of Fantastic Images Distributing

Over the past several decades, plastic has infiltrated the decking industry. Homeowners no longer settle for traditional timber but desire trouble-free decking that will last for generations to come. Though composite decking includes plastic ingredients, 100 percent synthetic decking like OC™ Lumber’s WEARDECK™ offers unbeatable benefits for homeowners.

Low-Maintenance Decking
Homeowners often switch from wood to plastic decking to avoid heavy maintenance costs. Contrary to wood, plastic decking requires no burdensome staining, painting, sealing, or sanding. Synthetic decking also resists fading and staining. Once builders install plastic boards, homeowners only need to occasionally clean their decking with soap and water.

Safety Advantages
Plastic decking provides safety benefits. Splinter-free plastic deck boards frequently include a wood-grain finish for enhanced slip resistance. Plastic decks and docks significantly reduce the risk of collapse thanks to their weatherproof and waterproof qualities.

Durable Decking: Weatherproof and Waterproof
Plastic deck boards exclude organic ingredients like wood, making them weatherproof and waterproof. Synthetic decking will not succumb to mold, mildew or water damage. Plastic decking contains no natural material for insects to eat or nest in, preventing insect infestation. Through rain, snow, and blistering heat, plastic deck boards overcome weather extremes.

Easy Installation
Builders and homeowners can install synthetic decking like traditional wood. Rip, route, and edge plastic decking like WEARDECK™ to achieve your ideal project design.

Aesthetics and Applications

With wood-grain patterns and a variety of colors, today’s plastic deck boards look and feel more natural. Color options range from deep wood tones to modern greys and beyond. Homeowners can elevate their outdoor space with high quality synthetic railing, gates, and even plastic piling wraps for docks to create a customized, complementary look.

Value of Plastic Decking
Plastic decks and docks add value to a property and help homeowners save in the long run by avoiding expensive ongoing maintenance and replacement costs. According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, homeowners can expect to recoup 68.2 percent of the cost of a wood composite deck addition. We estimate that a plastic deck addition will yield an even higher return as buyers consider the superior longevity and durability of synthetic boards.

WEARDECK™: The Superior Composite Decking
Owens Corning has reinforced High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) with fiberglass to produce a superior structural, heat-reflective decking, WEARDECK™. WEARDECK™ stands out among plastic deck boards with unparalleled strength and easy maintenance. WEARDECK™ is rated for ground contact and underwater installation. Ready to learn the difference for yourself? Contact us at 248-821-8242 for more information or to make an appointment to visit our showroom.