Lifetime PVC Decks | 50-Year Performance

PVC decking is a premium, 100% synthetic outdoor flooring material made entirely from polyvinyl chloride plastic, specifically engineered for deck construction. Unlike traditional wood decking that requires regular maintenance and is susceptible to environmental damage, PVC decking offers exceptional durability and weather resistance.

The key differences between PVC and other materials include:

Compared to Wood: While natural wood offers traditional beauty, PVC eliminates common wood problems like rotting, splintering, warping, and insect infestation. PVC decking requires no staining, sealing, or sanding, saving homeowners countless maintenance hours and costs over its lifetime.

Compared to Composite: Composite decking contains a blend of wood fibers and plastic, making it more durable than wood but still susceptible to some moisture absorption and potential mold issues. PVC decking contains no organic materials, making it completely impervious to moisture, mold, and mildew – ideal for Durham Region's variable climate conditions.

Premium brands we install, such as TimberTech AZEK and Clubhouse, offer sophisticated wood-like textures and rich color options that maintain their appearance for decades, backed by industry-leading warranties of up to 50 years. For homeowners throughout the GTA seeking a beautiful, virtually maintenance-free outdoor living space, PVC decking represents the ultimate long-term investment.

PVC decking offers substantial advantages over both traditional wood and composite alternatives, making it an excellent long-term investment for Durham Region and GTA homeowners.

Benefits over Wood:

• Superior Durability: PVC decking will never rot, splinter, crack, or warp—even after decades of exposure to harsh Canadian weather conditions.

• Moisture Resistance: Completely impervious to water damage, making it ideal for pool surrounds, waterfront properties, and areas with high humidity.

• Minimal Maintenance: While wood requires annual sanding, staining, and sealing, PVC decking needs only occasional cleaning with soap and water.

• Longer Lifespan: PVC comes with industry-leading warranties up to 50 years, compared to just 1-2 years for most wood products.

• Long-term Value: Though the initial investment is higher, PVC's durability and near-zero maintenance costs make it more economical over its lifetime.

Benefits over Composite:

• Complete Waterproofing: Unlike composite decking (which contains wood fibers that can absorb moisture), PVC is 100% synthetic and completely waterproof.

• Superior Resistance: PVC typically offers better scratch, stain, and fade resistance than composite options.

• Temperature Performance: Many premium PVC products stay cooler underfoot in direct sunlight compared to composite decking.

• Extended Warranties: PVC decking typically comes with longer warranties (up to 50 years versus 25-30 years for most composites).

• Ultimate Durability: For homeowners seeking the absolute pinnacle of low-maintenance decking with maximum longevity, PVC represents the ultimate choice—especially in Ontario's variable climate conditions.

Our professional installation of premium PVC decking provides homeowners with beautiful outdoor living spaces that maintain their appearance and structural integrity for decades with minimal upkeep.

PVC decking is engineered for exceptional longevity, outperforming virtually all other decking materials on the market. When professionally installed and with minimal maintenance, a quality PVC deck can last 50+ years without significant deterioration in appearance or structural integrity. This remarkable durability means a PVC deck could potentially be the last deck you'll ever need to install on your home.

Premium PVC decking manufacturers back this longevity with industry-leading warranties:

• Manufacturer Warranties: Most high-quality PVC decking products come with comprehensive 40-50 year limited warranties, depending on the brand

• Warranty Coverage: These warranties typically protect against structural defects, splitting, cracking, rot, termite damage, and even fade and stain resistance

• Enhanced Protection: At Align Decking, we complement manufacturer warranties with our own 5-year craftsmanship warranty on installation

These extensive warranty periods reflect manufacturers' confidence in their PVC products' ability to withstand decades of exposure to harsh Canadian weather conditions, from freezing winters to hot summers. The combination of manufacturer material warranties and our installation warranty provides Durham Region and GTA homeowners with complete peace of mind that their outdoor living investment is thoroughly protected.

For specific warranty details on the PVC decking brands we install, our team is happy to provide manufacturer documentation during your consultation.

PVC decking represents a premium investment in your home, typically costing more upfront than traditional wood or composite alternatives. In the Durham Region and GTA, you can expect the following approximate cost comparisons:

• Pressure-Treated Wood: $7-$10 per square foot

• Cedar or Hardwood: $12-$25 per square foot

• Composite Decking: $15-$30 per square foot

• PVC Decking: $20-$35 per square foot

These costs reflect material prices only. When evaluating the true value of each option, it's important to consider the total lifetime expense:

Long-term Cost Considerations:

• While wood decking has a lower initial cost, it requires annual maintenance (staining, sealing) costing approximately $2-$4 per square foot annually, plus potential repairs for rot, warping, or splintering

• Composite decking requires less maintenance than wood but still needs periodic cleaning and may show wear over time

• PVC decking requires minimal maintenance (occasional cleaning with soap and water) and typically maintains its appearance and structural integrity for decades

When factoring in maintenance costs over a 15-20 year period, PVC decking often becomes the more economical choice despite its higher upfront price. Additionally, PVC decking adds significant value to your home and can be an attractive selling feature if you decide to move in the future.

At Align Decking, we offer various PVC decking options at different price points to accommodate different budgets. During your consultation, we can provide specific pricing for your project based on size, design complexity, and material selection.

For most Durham Region and GTA homeowners, PVC decking represents an excellent long-term investment despite its higher initial price point. Here's why many of our clients consider it worth the premium:

Financial Value:

• While PVC decking costs more upfront than wood or composite alternatives, it eliminates the annual maintenance expenses of wood (staining, sealing, repairs), which can amount to thousands of dollars over time

• When calculating total ownership costs over 15-20 years, PVC decking typically becomes the most cost-effective option

• Premium outdoor living spaces can increase your property's resale value, with deck investments typically providing a 65-75% ROI—often higher for premium materials like PVC

Lifestyle Value:

• The near-zero maintenance requirements mean more time enjoying your outdoor space rather than maintaining it

• Superior durability ensures your deck remains safe and beautiful for decades without degradation

• Enhanced resistance to staining, scratching, and fading keeps your outdoor space looking new longer

Long-term Peace of Mind:

• Industry-leading warranties of up to 50 years protect your investment

• Complete moisture resistance eliminates concerns about rot, mold, or structural failure

• No splinters, warping, or cracking means safer enjoyment for families with children and pets

For homeowners planning to stay in their homes for 5+ years, who value quality and low maintenance, or who frequently entertain outdoors, PVC decking typically proves to be well worth the investment. Many of our clients tell us they wish they had upgraded to PVC sooner after experiencing its benefits firsthand.

During your consultation, we can provide a detailed cost comparison showing the lifetime value of PVC versus other materials for your specific project.

One of the most attractive benefits of PVC decking is its minimal maintenance requirements compared to traditional materials. Here's a complete guide to keeping your PVC deck looking beautiful for decades:

Routine Cleaning (2-3 times per year):

• Simply wash your deck with mild soap and warm water using a soft bristle brush or mop

• For general cleaning, a solution of dish soap and water works perfectly

• Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose after cleaning

• For best results, clean your deck in spring after winter, mid-summer, and fall before winter

Addressing Stains:

• Food and beverage stains: Clean promptly with warm, soapy water

• Pollen or leaf stains: Rinse with a hose and use a soft brush with soapy water

• Oil or grease: Use a specific PVC deck cleaner or mild degreaser approved for PVC

• Mold or mildew: Though PVC resists mold growth, surface mold can be removed with a mild vinegar solution or specialized deck cleaner

Maintenance Don'ts:

• Avoid power washing above 1500 PSI or using narrow-angle nozzles that could damage the surface

• Never use metal shovels or sharp-edged tools for snow removal (use plastic shovels or brushes)

• Don't use abrasive cleaners, chlorine bleach, or acetone-based products

• Avoid dragging heavy furniture without protective pads

Seasonal Considerations:

• Remove leaves and debris from the deck surface in fall to prevent staining

• Clear snow using plastic shovels only, and avoid ice-melting chemicals containing calcium chloride

Unlike wood decking, PVC never requires sanding, staining, sealing, refinishing, or painting—saving you significant time and money over the life of your deck. Most of our Durham Region clients spend less than 2 hours per year maintaining their PVC decks, compared to 20+ hours for wood deck maintenance.

Like all decking materials, PVC will warm up in direct sunlight, but it offers several advantages over other options:

Heat Performance Compared to Other Materials:

• PVC decking typically stays cooler underfoot than composite decking, which contains wood fibers that can retain more heat

• Premium PVC products are engineered with heat-reflective technology that helps reduce surface temperature

• While darker colored PVC boards will absorb more heat than lighter colors (just like any material), they generally perform better than equivalent composite colors

Factors Affecting PVC Deck Temperature:

• Color choice: Lighter colors like sandy beige, pearl gray, or white PVC reflect more sunlight and stay significantly cooler than darker brown or gray tones

• Deck location: South and west-facing decks receive more direct afternoon sun and will naturally be warmer

• Overhead structures: Pergolas, partial roofing, or shade sails can dramatically reduce deck surface temperatures

Tips for Keeping Your PVC Deck Cooler:

• Consider lighter color options for areas with full sun exposure, especially around pools

• Install strategic shade elements like umbrellas or pergolas over the most frequently used areas

• For existing decks that get hot, outdoor rugs or mats can provide comfortable walking surfaces in high-traffic areas

• Schedule your deck installation with appropriate joist spacing to allow for optimal airflow under the deck surface

In Durham Region's climate, most homeowners find PVC decking remains comfortable for barefoot use throughout most of the day, particularly when choosing lighter colors or incorporating some shade elements. During your consultation, we can recommend specific PVC products and colors that offer the best heat performance for your deck's exposure and intended use. Choose lighter colors which reflect more solar heat

• Select brands with specific cooling technology like TimberTech AZEK

• Consider design elements like pergolas or shade sails for especially sunny areas

Modern PVC decking offers an impressive range of colors and styles that beautifully mimic the appearance of natural wood without the maintenance concerns. The selection includes:

Color Options:

• Earth Tones: Rich browns, warm tans, and reddish cedar-like finishes

• Grays: From light weathered gray to deep charcoal and slate tones

• Multi-Tonal Boards: Variegated boards with subtle color blending that replicate exotic hardwoods

• Unique Options: Whitewashed beach-inspired tones and contemporary cool tones

Textures and Finishes:

• Authentic wood grain patterns that capture the look of premium hardwoods

• Wire-brushed textures that recreate the character of hand-scraped wood

• Subtle matte finishes that minimize glare and enhance the natural appearance

• Distressed finishes that mimic reclaimed or weathered wood

Design Patterns:

• Traditional straight board installation

• Diagonal patterns for visual interest

• Picture frame borders around deck perimeters

• Custom inlays and feature strips for truly unique designs

Premium brands we install, such as TimberTech AZEK and Clubhouse, continually update their color and style offerings to keep pace with home design trends. During your consultation, we'll provide actual samples so you can see how different options complement your home's exterior and your personal style preferences. Many of our clients find it helpful to view these samples in different lighting conditions before making their final selection.

Absolutely! PVC decking systems are designed as complete outdoor living solutions that fully support all the features you'd want in a premium deck:

Railing Systems:

• Most PVC decking manufacturers offer coordinating railing systems in matching or complementary colors

• Options include traditional post-and-baluster styles, glass panel systems for unobstructed views, cable railings, and mixed material designs

• These systems are engineered to meet or exceed all building code requirements for safety

Stairs and Transitions:

• PVC decking cuts and installs cleanly for stairs with precise, finished edges

• Special nosing and transition pieces create professional, polished stair edges

• Multi-level designs with landings are fully achievable with PVC systems

Integrated Lighting:

• Recessed deck lights can be incorporated into the decking surface

• Post cap lights, railing lights, and stair riser lights integrate seamlessly with PVC components

• Low-voltage LED systems can be wired beneath the deck for clean installation

Additional Features:

• Built-in benches and planter boxes can be constructed using PVC materials

• Privacy screens and pergolas can be integrated with your deck design

• Custom features like outdoor kitchens, bar areas, and fire pit surrounds can all be incorporated

At Align Decking, we specialize in custom PVC deck designs that incorporate all these elements into a cohesive, functional outdoor living space. During the design process, we can show you examples of how these features work together to enhance both the aesthetics and usability of your deck.

The timeline for PVC deck installation depends on several factors, but here's what you can typically expect:

Average Timeline Breakdown:

• Small to medium deck (up to 300 sq ft): 3-7 days

• Medium to large deck (300-500 sq ft): 1-2 weeks

• Complex designs with multiple levels or custom features: 2-4 weeks

• Removal of existing deck (if required): Add 1-2 days

Factors That Affect Installation Time:

• Design complexity: Simple rectangular designs are faster than multi-level or custom-shaped decks

• Site accessibility: Clear, level ground with easy access allows for faster installation

• Weather conditions: While we work efficiently in most conditions, severe weather may cause brief delays

• Special features: Integrated lighting, custom railings, or built-in elements add installation time

• Permit processes: Obtaining required permits typically occurs before the installation begins

Our Installation Process:

1. Preparation: Site preparation and excavation (1-2 days)

2. Foundation: Installing concrete footings or helical piles (1-2 days)

3. Framing: Construction of the post, beam and joist structure (2-7 days)

4. Decking: Laying the PVC deck boards (1-3 days)

5. Features: Adding railings, stairs, and other features (1-3 days)

6. Finishing: Final touches and clean-up (1-2 days)

At Align Decking, we're known for our efficient, professional installation process. We provide a detailed timeline during your consultation and keep you updated throughout the project. While PVC deck installation typically takes slightly longer than pressure-treated wood (due to precision cutting and specialized fastening systems), the superior results and longevity make the minimal additional time investment worthwhile.

PVC decking offers several environmental benefits, particularly when considering its entire lifecycle:

Sustainability Advantages:

• Exceptional longevity: A 50+ year lifespan means fewer replacements and less material consumption over time

• Zero maintenance chemicals: No need for stains, sealers, and preservatives that can leach into soil and groundwater

• Recyclability: Most premium PVC decking is recyclable at the end of its useful life

• Resource conservation: No trees are harvested for PVC production, helping preserve forests

• Manufacturing improvements: Modern PVC production uses significantly less energy than older methods

Environmental Considerations:

• While PVC production does involve petroleum-based materials, the extended lifespan offsets this initial environmental impact

• Many manufacturers now incorporate recycled materials in their PVC formulations

• Leading brands like TimberTech AZEK operate dedicated recycling programs and use sustainable manufacturing processes

• No off-gassing or leaching of toxic chemicals occurs once installed

Eco-Friendly Features:

• Energy-efficient manufacturing processes are increasingly common among premium PVC deck manufacturers

• Zero waste during the product's lifespan (no continuous application of chemicals)

• Reduced transportation emissions due to lightweight nature compared to wood or concrete alternatives

• Some manufacturers use solar power and closed-loop water systems in their production facilities

For environmentally conscious homeowners, we recommend exploring the specific sustainability commitments of different PVC decking manufacturers. Several leading brands now publish annual sustainability reports detailing their environmental initiatives and progress toward reduced carbon footprints. During your consultation, we can highlight the most eco-friendly PVC options available for your project.