Composite and PVC decks
Decking that doesn't need to be stained every couple of years in the dry Black Hills sun, and what to know before you choose it.
Composite boards blend wood fiber and plastic, and PVC boards are all plastic. Both are made to resist rot and skip the cleaning and staining routine that wood needs. In Rapid City's dry, sunny climate, where wood decks tend to gray, check and lose their finish quickly, that's the main reason people choose them.
What are the trade-offs?
- Upfront cost. Composite and PVC usually cost more than treated wood. Many owners weigh that against years of staining.
- Heat. Dark boards can get very hot in direct summer sun. Lighter colors and shade help.
- Hail. Composite doesn't split like dry wood, but large hail can still chip or mark some boards. Ask how the product handles impact.
- Movement. Boards expand and contract with temperature, and Rapid City swings hard. Builders follow the manufacturer's gap and fastening rules so boards don't buckle or open up.
- Fire. Composite boards are still combustible. Near the trees, see the deck guide for Firewise tips.
Can composite go on my existing deck frame?
Sometimes. If the footings, posts, beams and joists are sound and spaced right, a builder may be able to re-deck with composite. But composite often calls for closer joist spacing than old wood decks were built with, and the frame underneath will now need to last as long as the new boards. Many builders will want to check the ledger, hangers and footings first, and some will recommend rebuilding the frame.
What about the framing?
Composite decks still usually sit on pressure-treated wood framing. Joist tape on top of the joists and proper flashing at the ledger help the frame last longer under boards that are expected to go decades.
Railings to match
Most composite systems have matching railings, and metal or cable railings pair well with them too. See railings and stairs.
The builder prices the job after seeing the site, measuring, and talking through materials and layout with you. We don't quote prices, and a number given over the phone is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Is composite decking worth it in Rapid City?
For many owners, yes, mainly because it skips the staining that wood needs in dry, sunny weather. It costs more up front, so compare the total over the years you'll own the house.
Does composite decking get slippery in winter?
Any deck surface can get slick with snow and ice. Clear snow with a plastic shovel and follow the manufacturer's guidance on ice melt.
Related services
More background: Rapid City deck guide.
Soft boards, a wobbly railing or a deck you've been planning for years?
Call now and a local deck builder will help you sort out the next step.