PVC Decking: Pros, Cons, and Maintenance

While our Western Canadian counterparts have been using PVC deck boards for a long time, this outdoor flooring material is not quite as established in these parts of the country. To turn this situation around, and give homeowners an alternative when renovating their deck or balcony, take a closer look at the pros and cons of using PVC deck boards and the best maintenance tips.

PVC Decking

Benefits of PVC Deck Boards

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First and foremost, PVC decking is both water- and slip-proof, which gives it a certain advantage against other deck or balcony coatings such as wood or cement on which, when wet, it can get rather perilous to walk on. 

Since it is a flexible material, it is easy to install on numerous surfaces such as wood, fibreglass, and even cement; it is a remarkably versatile material. Its multipurpose trademark is also reflected in its wide variety of colours, and the possibility of obtaining it in a transparent, opaque, rigid, or flexible form.

On another note, PVC deck boards have a soft texture, are nice to the touch, and are not uncomfortable to tread on, barefoot. This fact is all the more true since it does not become excessively warm in direct sunlight. 

What more can be said about this decking material? First of all, note that a PVC deck board is resistant to chlorine and calcium, thereby making it a durable deck or balcony coating from which you can benefit for years to come. And, for all those animal lovers out there, note that this type of deck board is scratch-resistant, so there is nothing to fear on that side of things. Furthermore, PVC deck boards are designed to allow moisture to filter through, thus preventing the growth of mould and mildew beneath the surface.

Another important factor to keep in mind is that this type of deck board is resistant to UV rays. Therefore, there is no need to worry about the coating fading within the next 10 to 15 years. As for the durability of the material itself, it averages 25 years, which is quite a decent amount of time.

Better Than Ripping Out Everything

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Whenever a deck or balcony begins to show signs of wear and tear, and some minor damage, the first option that usually comes to mind is to completely redo it, which can be quite costly. However, in such circumstances, the possibility of preserving the original structure makes the installation of PVC decking the ideal solution.

Downsides of PVC Deck Boards

Just like every coin has a flip side, PVC decking is not the most resistant material to cold weather. Furthermore, its appearance cannot be altered by applying a coat of dye or paint. For this reason, carefully choose the colour of the boards at the time of purchase, otherwise, you will have to live with the dissatisfaction for a relatively long time.

PVC Decking Maintenance

Let us just simply stress the fact that this type of flooring is relatively easy to maintain; it can be cleaned with a brush and soapy water. However, for those who wish to thoroughly clean the surface, you can also pressure wash it. Clean the surface on average three times a year to keep it looking its best.

Ideal Width of a Deck Board

When it comes to purchasing your PVC decking, note that it is available in various widths, which can range from 30 to 60 millimetres. For a ground application, it is preferable to purchase a 40-millimeter deck board. PVC decking with a greater width is generally reserved for flat rooftops and requires the services of a certified roofer with a valid license from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec.

While some laymen may think they can, without fail, install PVC decking on a balcony or deck, it is recommended that a professional perform the installation. Keep in mind that a shoddy installation may compromise the decking's water resistance, which can eventually lead to a build-up of moisture beneath the material.