How to Help Homeowners Choose the Right Decking for Their Home

Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time for homeowners to start planning their outdoor spaces. One of the most important decisions when designing a deck is choosing the right material. At Palmer-Donavin, we offer TimberTech in the Midwest and Fiberon and Zuri in the Southeast, providing high-quality, low-maintenance composite decking options for any style and budget.
PVC Decking
PVC decking is made entirely from synthetic materials, offering:
✔ Superior Moisture Resistance –making it ideal for a deck by the water.
✔ Lightweight Design – Easier to handle and install.
✔ Fade and Stain Resistance – Enhanced UV protection for long-lasting color.
✔ Higher Price Point – Premium product with a longer lifespan.
Composite Decking
Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic, providing:
✔ Natural Aesthetic – Mimics the look of real wood with authentic grain patterns.
✔ Increased Strength – Heavier and more rigid than PVC.
✔ Eco-Friendly Choice – Made from recycled materials.
✔ Cost-Effective – Offers durability at a more affordable price point.
TimberTech Decking (Available in the Midwest)
TimberTech offers a range of decking options, including both PVC and composite collections. Plamer-Donavin Stocks the following collections:
- PVC Collections: Harvest, Harvest+, Landmark, and Vintage—designed for superior moisture resistance and long-lasting color retention.
- Composite Collections: Prime & Premier, Prime+, Terrain, Reserve, and Legacy—offering the natural look of wood with enhanced durability and lower maintenance.
With a variety of textures, colors, and industry-leading warranties, TimberTech provides homeowners with decking solutions to match their style and budget.
View the TimberTech Decking Comparison Chart
Fiberon Decking (Available in the Southeast)
Fiberon offers a wide range of colors and finishes across their PVC and Composite collections. Palmer-Donavin stocks the following collections:
- PVC Collection: Paramount and Promenade.
- Composite Collection: Good Life, Sanctuary, and Concordia.
“Known for its durability and sustainability, Fiberon decking is designed to perform in various climates while being an environmentally conscious choice made from recycled materials. Fiberon PVC Decking offers a Class A fire rating—Promenade FSI 15 Class A and Paramount FSI 25 Class A—making it a strong choice for applications where fire resistance is essential, such as commercial rooftop decks. Additionally, Fiberon PVC decking is lightweight, absorbs very little moisture, and provides exceptional durability, fire resistance, and the highest slip resistance—ideal for wet or damp areas like docks and pools.” Chris Wolfe, Fiberon South East Regional Manager.
View the Fiberon Product Guide
Zuri Premium Decking
Zuri by Westlake Royal is a premium PVC decking option that provides the look of real hardwood with the benefits of low maintenance and superior durability.
- Six Stock Colors: Chestnut, Walnut, Pecan, Brazilia, & Weathered Gray.
- Special Order Color: Hickory.
View the Zuri Stock Sell Sheet
Finding the Perfect Fit
When selecting a decking material, consider factors like climate, budget, and aesthetics. If your deck is near water, PVC decking is the best choice because it doesn’t absorb moisture. In areas with extreme heat, composite decking is often a better option, as modern composites are more resistant to heat than traditional wood. “In the Midwest, TimberTech Prime Plus is a top choice for its natural wood look and durability, perfect for handling seasonal weather changes. In the Southeast, Fiberon Escapes stands out for its fade and moisture resistance, making it ideal for hot and humid climates. Homeowners love these options for their low maintenance and lasting beauty.” – John Speelman, Palmer-Donavin Buyer of Decking.
Review the chart below to compare the key differences between decking materials.
Real Wood Looks | Water Resistance | Mold Resistance | Maintenance | Life Span | Upfront Cost | |
PVC | Great | High | High | Low | 50+ Years | $$$ |
Composite | Good | Moderate | High | Low | 25-30+ Years | $$ |
Wood | Great | Low | Moderate | High | 10-15 Years | $ |
To learn more about PVC and Composite decking visit https://www.timbertech.com/ideas/pvc-vs-composite-decking/
Need help deciding? Contact us today to learn more about the best decking options for your region!