Start researching decking options and you’ll see the terms “plastic decking,” “composite decking,” and “PVC decking” used almost like they mean the same thing. Spoiler—they don’t. As Saskatchewan’s go-to deck supply experts, we see the confusion this causes every spring, whether you’re a Regina homeowner, a Saskatoon contractor, or a first-timer ordering online. Let’s cut through the jargon, clarify what people really mean by each, and help you choose the material that’ll look great, last in the Prairie climate, and deliver the value you actually want.
Plastic, Composite, or PVC: Why the Terms Get Mixed Up
“Plastic decking” is a phrase that crops up all the time, but here’s the rub: nobody actually makes or sells a product officially called "plastic decking" in Canada today. It’s shorthand. Most people mean either composite decking or PVC decking. But these are very different in composition, performance, and price. Both technically use plastics, but the similarities often stop there.
The Myth of Plastic Decking
Decades ago, there were a few all-plastic deck boards on the market. They didn’t perform well—think warping, fading, and a slippery feel. That’s why serious building supply stores (like The Ultimate Deck Shop) moved to offering only composite and advanced PVC decking. So, if you hear "plastic decking" these days, ask more questions: do they mean composite (with wood fiber), or true PVC (zero wood)?
Composite Decking: What It Actually Is
Composite decking is made by mixing plastic polymers—often recycled—with reclaimed wood fibre or sawdust. That blend gets heated, extruded into boards, and then topped off (in most modern brands) with a tough plastic “cap” for surefire protection from the elements.
- Composition: Plastic resin + wood fibres
- Appearance: Classic wood grain and varied colours. Our customers frequently confuse quality composite with stained cedar, until they touch it.
- Durability: 25–30+ years. The cap resists fading, stains, and Saskatchewan’s up-and-down temperatures.
- Eco-friendly: Many lines use recycled plastics and wood, cutting landfill waste.
- Maintenance: No staining or painting needed, just basic cleaning. For guidance on care, check our Deck Maintenance in Regina: A Month-by-Month Checklist.
One look at products like Deckorators Vista Dunewood and you'll see why composite is so popular—it nails the look of cedar or tropical hardwood.
When Composite Makes Sense
- You want a natural wood look, but hate sanding and staining
- Your deck gets a lot of traffic (including pets and kids)
- Your budget is mid-range—you’re upgrading from wood, but not going ultra-premium
- You value material stability across extreme cold and hot cycles (Saskatchewan, anyone?)
PVC Decking: What Sets It Apart
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking contains no wood at all. It’s just a high-tech, fully synthetic board—engineered to be tough, water-resistant, and nearly immune to rot or insects. This isn’t cheap “plastic” like lawn furniture. Modern PVC decking looks remarkable, feels sturdy underfoot, and is especially popular for:
- Pool surrounds (no moisture issues, safe for bare feet)
- Waterfront and four-season lake homes (it laughs off humidity and freezing rains)
- Low-maintenance buyers willing to pay a premium for “install it and ignore it” performance
PVC fast facts:
- Zero organic content: Rot-proof, cannot mould or support algae growth
- Lifespan: Frequently quoted at 50 years when installed right
- Colour retention: Superior fade resistance, even in direct Prairie sun
- Weight: Light for easy installation—but can expand more in heat/cold
Composite vs PVC Decking: Side-by-Side Differences
| Feature | Composite Decking | PVC Decking |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Wood fiber + recycled plastic | 100% synthetic polymer (no wood) |
| Appearance | Authentic wood grain | Sleek, uniform (still realistic, but less wood-like) |
| Lifespan | 25–30 years | 50+ years (when installed as directed) |
| Slip resistance | Excellent (textured cap, wood grain pattern) | Very good (engineered surface) |
| Colour fade | Mild, often looks natural | Minimal, colour stays truer |
| Water resistance | Very high, especially 4-sided capped products | Best (fully waterproof) |
| Expansion/contraction | Less movement (better for temp swings) | Expands/contracts more in extreme swings |
| Scratch resistance | Tough—great for pets/kids | Can scratch but easy to clean |
| Eco impact | Often contains recycled content | Longer lifespan, recyclable—but made from new polymer |
| Price | Mid-range | Premium |
| Typical buyers | Homeowners wanting wood look/feel with less work | Pool/lake owners, modern homes, ultra low-maintenance buyers |
What About Old-Fashioned “Plastic” Decking?
If someone is trying to sell you deck boards labeled simply "plastic," and they can’t show you a reputable brand or warranty, walk away. Neither The Ultimate Deck Shop nor any quality supplier in Canada carries generic “plastic” decking, because it simply doesn't meet modern performance standards for safety or aesthetics. Everything worthwhile today will be branded, with clear composition and a manufacturer’s performance guarantee.
Real Saskatchewan Performance: What Actually Matters by Climate
Our climate is hard on decks—deep freezes, blazing sun, summer thunderstorms, and the odd hailstorm. Here’s what we see, year after year:
- Composite holds up beautifully to freeze/thaw cycles. Movement is minimal. Perfect for raised decks in Regina and Saskatoon.
- PVC outperforms for salt-water or poolside installs—no fear of water absorption or swelling, ever.
- Both are resistant to UV, ice, and stubborn Prairie weeds (yes, even goat’s beard!).
The right choice often comes down to where the deck is being built and how you’ll use it. For more climate-specific guidance, see our internal blog: Deck Maintenance in Regina: A Month-by-Month Checklist for Prairie Weather.
Key Buying Scenarios (With No-Nonsense Advice)
You Might Want Composite Decking If…
- Your deck needs to mimic real wood as closely as possible for value or HOA restrictions
- You want fewer headaches from movement caused by temperature swings
- Your budget is decent but you want the best value for lifespan
- You care about using recycled materials
- Saskatchewan frost heave is a concern—composite tolerates subzero snaps best
You Might Want PVC Decking If…
- The deck is around a pool or within a few meters of the lake/river
- Your biggest issue is water, mildew, or high humidity
- You never want to sand, stain, or touch up anything. Ever.
- Appearance: You love modern lines and super-clean surfaces
- You’re happy to invest more upfront to (maybe) never replace the deck again
What About Maintenance?
Composite and PVC decks are both low maintenance, but not truly “maintenance free.” Both need cleaning to stay safe and attractive, especially after a Saskatchewan winter. A once-over with soapy water, or a careful pressure wash for PVC, does the trick.
We strongly recommend you check our Deck Maintenance in Regina checklist, where we get super detailed: covering cleaning, snow/ice care, and summer prep—no matter what type of decking you choose.
FAQs (We Hear These Weekly in Our Stores)
- Is composite or PVC slippery?
- No. Manufacturers texture both surfaces for traction, even when wet. Slip resistance is comparable—poolside PVC is engineered for this.
- Can I use salt or ice melt on composite or PVC decks?
- Yes, but always use a product recommended for synthetics, and sweep up residue in spring. For more, see our internal guide Safe Ice Melt for Decks.
- Do they get hot in summer?
- Yes, darker colours can heat up more in full sun. PVC tends to feel a bit hotter than composite, but both outperform old “plastic” products for thermal comfort.
- Do I still need to protect my deck frame?
- Absolutely. Rot can still attack the structure below, even if the boards are synthetic. See guidance on joist protection.
Red Flags: What to Watch Out For
- Anyone selling generic "plastic boards" with no specs or warranty
- Lack of clarity about capping (composite should be capped on all sides for best protection)
- No info on cold or heat stability—it matters here!
Local Support & Choosing Materials: Why It Matters
We bring in only proven brands and lines—tested in Saskatchewan, respected across Canada. We carry Trex, Deckorators, MoistureShield, Fiberon and more (all recognized, all with full warranty). Local support means you get clarity on matching the right product to your property.
Final Thoughts: Choosing What Lasts and Looks Good for Years
Here’s what we tell our friends and customers: there’s no one “best” synthetic deck, only the best fit for your home, usage, and budget. Composite decking sets the standard for real-wood looks, resilience, and value. PVC decking outlasts everything in the toughest, wettest spots. Old generic “plastic” decking? Skip it—it doesn’t exist in quality supply channels for a reason.
Remember: No matter which you choose, maintenance and regular cleaning extend your deck’s lifespan. Our deck maintenance guide is the ultimate reference for seasonal prep.
If You Need Guidance—Ask Us
We’ve helped 10,000+ Saskatchewan and Canadian families beat the deck jargon and choose the best material for their home. No obligation, no pressure—just decades of real-life deck support. For expert consults, brand comparisons, and honest answers (with in-store or online pickup and shipping), start at The Ultimate Deck Shop.
