How Contractors Explain Composite vs PVC Decking. (Without Confusing Customers)

If you build decks long enough, this question is guaranteed to come up.

You’re talking to the customer and the homeowner asks:

“What’s the real difference between composite and PVC decking?”

How you answer that question can either build confidence or create confusion. The good news. You don’t need a technical lecture.

You need a clear, repeatable way to explain the difference so customers feel informed and ready to move forward.

This quick guide is designed to help contractors explain composite vs PVC decking in plain language, while positioning yourself as the expert.

Start With the Simple Explanation (Contractor Script)

When customers feel overwhelmed, keep it simple first.

Composite decking: “Composite is a mix of wood fibers and recycled plastic. It looks and feels more like real wood, but without staining or sealing.”

PVC decking: “PVC is 100 percent plastic. No wood at all. That means it’s extremely resistant to moisture, stains, and weather.”

Once they get that baseline, you can layer in the details that actually help them decide.

Composite vs PVC Decking. The Differences Homeowners Care About

Look and Feel (This Is Usually the First Decision Driver)

Composite decking

• More natural, wood-like grain and texture

• Warmer underfoot

• Popular with homeowners who want a traditional look

• PVC decking

  • Smoother and more uniform

  • Cleaner, more modern appearance

  • Holds color extremely well over time

Composite decking

PVC decking

How contractors frame it:

If you want it to look like wood, composite usually wins. If you want it to stay looking brand-new longer, PVC shines.

Moisture, Snow and Utah Weather

Utah's climate makes this conversation important.

Composite decking

• Highly durable, especially capped composites

• Can hold moisture in shaded or damp areas if not cleaned periodically

PVC decking

• Does not absorb moisture

• Will not swell, rot, or host mold

• Excellent for snow load areas, shaded decks, and covered decks

Both are durable. PVC just handles moisture better over the long run.

Modern deck with smooth PVC decking and railing

Maintenance Expectations

Neither option requires the upkeep of traditional wood.

Composite decking may need periodic cleaning, especially in shaded areas, but it never needs staining or sealing.

PVC decking needs very little maintenance beyond basic cleaning. It is highly stain resistant.

Setting these expectations early helps avoid future frustration.

Budget Conversations

Composite decking typically has a lower upfront cost. That makes it a popular option for many residential projects.

PVC decking costs more initially, but many homeowners see value in its longevity and lower maintenance over time.

A helpful way to explain it:

"Composite saves money upfront. PVC saves effort and maintenance long-term".

When to Recommend Each Option

Recommend composite decking when homeowners:

• Want a natural wood look

• Are budget conscious

• Want durability with minimal upkeep

• Care about recycled materials

Recommend PVC decking when homeowners:

• Want the lowest maintenance option

• Have a high-moisture or shaded deck area

• Want long-term color consistency

• Prefer maximum weather resistance

Why the Right Supplier Makes This Easier

Having the right products and support behind you makes these conversations smoother. Working with a local supplier like Wasatch Deck and Rail Supply means you get materials that perform well in Utah’s climate, along with guidance that helps you recommend the right solution the first time.

Want Help Having Better Decking Conversations?

If you find yourself explaining composite vs PVC decking over and over, it helps to have a system.

We created a free Contractor Decking Conversation Guide to help you:

• Explain decking options clearly and confidently

• Educate homeowners without overselling

• Set expectations that reduce callbacks

• Close jobs faster with less confusion

👉 Download the free guide and start having better decking conversations with your customers.

This guide is built specifically for contractors who want to grow their business by educating, not overwhelming, their customers.