Composite vs. Real Wood

To build with natural lumber or “plastic wood?” That is the question, and our answer begins with vocabulary. “Plastic wood” is an outdated term; think the 1960s. Today’s advanced manufacturing processes combine wood fibers and flour with synthetic materials such as polyactic acid, polypropylene or polyvinyl chloride.

Builders and manufacturers use terms like “composite materials” or “composite wood” to describe the finished product: material that mimics the look, feel and durability of true lumber. Composite materials are increasingly popular in prefabricated construction, siding, courtyards, backyards and gardens.  

Endurance Build & Remodel designers and contractors can help you choose between composite materials and real wood, such as cedar. Our expert craftspeople work with all materials and budgets, whether you’re dreaming of a pergola, porch or a refinished, looks-like-new deck.  

Composite Materials:

• Cost more than natural lumber but deliver long-term value. They are lower maintenance, offer more color choices, and can withstand midwestern weather. An annual pressure wash might be all it takes to keep a composite-built deck looking like new! 

• Resemble natural wood but can’t completely mimic subtle effects like grain or nature’s true hues; composites are durable, beautiful, but may have a more artificial look. 

• Provide excellent reinforcement. Composite materials can replace rotting wood beams and boards and siding. Endurance builders can integrate new composite materials into existing wood structures to maintain the integrity of your original design and make it stronger.  

  
  

  

  
  

Real Wood or Natural Lumber:

• Real wood has been the choice for home design and construction for centuries. Lumber is reliable and it’s beautiful. Nothing beats the sight and scent of a freshly finished, finely grained deck. 

• Here in the Midwest, lumber is plentiful and may cost less than composite materials. 

• Real wood takes real work. Refinish your wood deck every two to four years to keep it looking fresh. An example: red-hued wood like cedar goes grey over time.  

• Real wood is sensitive to the extremes of Wisconsin weather. Lumber reveals wear-and-tear like cracks, mold and rot faster than composite materials.  

Choose Your Wood/Composite Wisely

At the end of the day, design leads the way. Are you looking to reinforce an existing design you already love? Want to transform your patio or porch into a work of (low-maintenance) art?

Start with an expert consultation from Endurance Rebuild & Remodel. We’ll discuss your vision, your budget and material supply-and-demand. Our expertise is all about meeting your needs from a place of comfort and compatibility. Together we’ll build (or rebuild) something you love and can live in for years to come.