When planning a deck, one of the most important decisions a homeowner or builder makes is choosing the right material. For many years, natural wood dominated outdoor decking. However, materials like PVC decking have emerged as durable, low-maintenance alternatives. While both wood and PVC decking can create beautiful outdoor spaces, the way they are installed differs significantly. Understanding these differences helps homeowners, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts plan more effectively, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure the deck performs well for years to come.

1. Understanding the Materials

PVC Decking

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking is made entirely from synthetic plastic. It contains no wood fibers, which makes it highly resistant to rot, insects, and moisture damage. Many modern PVC decking boards are designed with a textured surface that mimics natural wood grain. They also come in consistent dimensions and colors, reducing waste during installation.

Traditional Wood Decking

Wood decking, on the other hand, is made from natural lumber—such as pressure-treated pine, cedar, or tropical hardwoods. Each board has its own grain, knots, and density, making it a naturally beautiful but sometimes unpredictable material. Wood requires sealing, staining, or painting to protect it from weathering.

Because the materials themselves differ so much, their installation processes also differ in terms of handling, fastening, and long-term maintenance.

2. Substructure and Framing

Similar Foundation

Both PVC and traditional wood decking require a solid substructure. The foundation typically includes concrete footings, beams, and joists. Regardless of the decking material, the frame must meet local building codes and provide sufficient support for the expected load.

Framing Spacing Differences

Where PVC decking differs is in the required joist spacing. Since PVC is more flexible than wood, it often requires closer joist spacing to prevent sagging or flexing under weight.

• Typical wood decking joist spacing: 16 inches on center.
• Typical PVC decking joist spacing: 12 to 16 inches on center, depending on manufacturer guidelines.

Following the manufacturer’s recommendation is crucial because improper spacing can lead to movement, deflection, or “bounce” in the finished deck surface.

Framing Material Choice

For wood decking, the frame is usually made of pressure-treated lumber. With PVC decking, builders may choose pressure-treated wood or a steel or aluminum frame to create a fully moisture-resistant system, especially in coastal or high-humidity regions.

3. Acclimation Before Installation

PVC Decking

PVC decking expands and contracts with temperature changes. To minimize movement after installation, boards should acclimate to the installation environment for 24–48 hours. This means storing them flat, off the ground, and out of direct sunlight before installation.

Wood Decking

Wood also needs acclimation, but for a different reason. Because wood absorbs and releases moisture, it needs time to adjust to the local humidity level to reduce post-installation warping or cupping. Builders typically store wood decking for several days before installation.

In both cases, acclimation helps stabilize the material, but PVC responds mainly to temperature, while wood reacts to moisture.

4. Cutting and Handling the Boards

Working with PVC Decking

PVC boards are lightweight and easy to cut using standard woodworking tools like circular saws or miter saws fitted with carbide-tipped blades. Cutting produces fine plastic shavings instead of sawdust. Since PVC decking is uniform, every cut is predictable.

However, installers must take care to collect or dispose of plastic shavings properly to avoid environmental pollution.

Working with Wood Decking

Cutting wood decking is straightforward, but imperfections such as knots or splits may affect precision. Boards may also vary slightly in width or thickness, requiring adjustments during installation. Because wood is more rigid, it does not flex as easily during alignment, so proper pre-cutting and spacing are essential.

5. Fastening Methods

Fastening PVC Decking

One of the biggest differences between PVC and wood decking installation lies in the fastening systems.

PVC decking can be installed using either hidden fasteners or face screws:

• Hidden fasteners (clips or grooves): Most PVC boards are designed with side grooves that fit proprietary clips. These clips are attached to the joists and hold the boards securely in place without visible screws. This creates a clean, seamless surface.
• Face screwing: Some installers still prefer traditional face screws, but special screws designed for PVC should be used. These screws typically have reverse threads near the head to prevent mushrooming (raised material around the screw).

It’s important to use fasteners approved by the decking manufacturer. Using the wrong fastener type can void warranties or cause aesthetic issues.

Fastening Wood Decking

Traditional wood decking usually relies on face screws or nails:

• Nails: Common in older decks but prone to loosening over time.
• Deck screws: Provide a more secure hold and resist popping out.
• Hidden fasteners: Some modern wood decks use hidden systems, but these are less common because wood expands and contracts more irregularly than PVC.

Because wood fibers compress under screw heads, pre-drilling is often recommended—especially for hardwood species—to prevent splitting.

6. Board Spacing and Alignment

Expansion and Contraction Considerations

PVC decking expands and contracts with temperature changes, especially in long boards. Therefore, proper spacing between ends and sides is critical. Installers must follow manufacturer guidelines, which usually specify:

• End-to-end gaps: 1/8 to 1/4 inch depending on temperature at installation.
• Side gaps: 1/8 inch for drainage and expansion.

In contrast, wood decking shrinks as it dries. Boards are often installed tight together or with minimal gaps, knowing they will open up over time.

Alignment Techniques

PVC boards are manufactured to consistent dimensions, making alignment easier and more uniform. Wood boards may require adjustments or shimming due to variations in width, especially if they are not kiln-dried.

7. Trimming, Edging, and Finishing Touches

For both decking types, finishing details like borders, fascia boards, and stair treads complete the look.

PVC Decking

PVC fascia and trim pieces are often available from the same manufacturer, ensuring color and texture consistency. Because PVC does not absorb moisture, it does not require sealing or painting. After installation, joints and edges are sometimes finished with matching plugs or trim caps for a professional appearance.

Wood Decking

With wood, finishing involves sanding rough spots and applying sealant, stain, or paint to protect against UV and moisture. Trim boards are usually cut from the same wood stock and finished to match. Over time, these finishes must be reapplied to maintain appearance and durability.

8. Maintenance After Installation

PVC Decking Maintenance

Once installed, PVC decking requires very little upkeep. Cleaning involves simply hosing down or washing with mild soap and water. Because PVC is nonporous, it resists mold, mildew, and staining. There’s no need for annual sanding or resealing.

Wood Decking Maintenance

Wood decks need more attention. Exposure to rain, sun, and temperature changes causes fading, cracking, and splintering. Routine maintenance includes:

• Annual cleaning.
• Re-staining or sealing every 1–2 years.
• Inspecting and replacing damaged boards.

While maintenance adds to long-term costs, many homeowners still prefer the natural look and feel of real wood.

9. Installation Time and Skill Level

PVC Decking

PVC decking systems are designed for ease of installation, particularly when using hidden fasteners. The consistent board sizes and pre-fabricated grooves allow professionals and experienced DIYers to work efficiently. However, attention to temperature and expansion gaps is crucial, which requires precision and planning.

Wood Decking

Installing wood decking can be faster in some cases because traditional screws or nails are familiar to most builders. However, variations in wood quality, warping, and pre-drilling needs can slow the process. For hardwoods, installation is typically more labor-intensive.

In general, PVC decking installations are slightly more predictable but may take longer initially due to attention to manufacturer-specific details. The benefit is a cleaner, low-maintenance finish.

10. Long-Term Durability and Performance

While this article focuses on installation, it’s worth noting how installation affects longevity.

PVC decking, when installed properly, remains stable and warp-resistant. Correct joist spacing and expansion allowances are critical to prevent board distortion. Improper installation—such as insufficient spacing—can cause boards to bulge or buckle under heat.

Wood decking, even with perfect installation, naturally changes over time. It expands and contracts with humidity, leading to cracks or cupping. Regular maintenance helps mitigate these effects but cannot eliminate them entirely.

Thus, while both can perform well, the quality of installation plays a larger role in PVC’s long-term success.

11. Environmental and Cost Considerations During Installation

PVC decking typically costs more upfront than wood, both in material and sometimes in fasteners or specialized clips. However, installation waste is lower because boards are consistent and pre-finished.

Wood decking can be more affordable initially, but variability in board quality may lead to higher waste during installation. Additionally, ongoing finishing and maintenance add cost and labor over time.

From an environmental perspective, sustainably harvested wood can be renewable, whereas PVC is synthetic but long-lasting. Recycled PVC options are becoming more common, bridging this gap somewhat.

12. Key Takeaways: Installation Comparison Summary

13. Final Thoughts

Installing PVC decking and traditional wood decking may seem similar at first glance, but the differences become clear in the details. PVC’s installation emphasizes precision—especially in spacing, fastening, and temperature control—while wood decking focuses on craftsmanship in cutting, sealing, and finishing natural material.

For homeowners, understanding these distinctions helps them choose the material that aligns with their long-term goals. PVC decking offers consistency, low maintenance, and a polished appearance, while wood decking provides warmth, natural character, and traditional building familiarity.

Ultimately, the success of any deck—PVC or wood—depends on thoughtful installation. A properly constructed deck not only enhances outdoor living but also stands as a lasting testament to the importance of planning, patience, and attention to detail.