Choosing the Right Decking Material: Comparing Wood, Composite, and PVC Options
- Bolyard Lumber & Design

- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
The Right Foundation for Your Outdoor Masterpiece
Spring is just around the corner, and as homeowners and designers begin planning their outdoor living spaces, the most critical decision is the decking material itself. Choosing the right material ensures your investment lasts for decades, minimizes upkeep, and perfectly complements your home’s design. While traditional wood remains a classic, the market has expanded to offer high-performance composite and advanced PVC options (such as those offered by brands like TimberTech and Trex). At Bolyard Lumber & Design, we focus on providing materials that deliver beauty without the upkeep.

The Composite and PVC Advantage: Beauty Meets Durability
When evaluating your options, high-performance decking—specifically composite and PVC—offers compelling advantages over natural wood.
Pro: Lower initial cost, natural appearance.
Con: Requires yearly maintenance (sanding, staining, sealing), prone to warping, splintering, and insect damage.
Composite and PVC (TimberTech, etc.):
Pro: Virtually maintenance-free, highly resistant to moisture, fading, and insects, backed by industry-leading warranties.
Con: Higher upfront cost.
Why We Choose TimberTech
Our partnership with TimberTech allows us to provide materials that consistently outperform the competition. TimberTech specializes in two core categories:
Composite Decking (TimberTech): Made from a combination of wood fibers and recycled plastics, offering the look of natural wood with superior resilience and protection against moisture.
Advanced PVC Decking (Azek): A high-performance, polymer-based option that provides superior moisture resistance, making it ideal for high-humidity or ground-contact applications.
The key to a successful, long-lasting deck is selecting a premium material that handles the Michigan climate with ease. Jason Vallus, Manager of Decking Sales at Bolyard Lumber & Design, emphasizes this point:
"When clients ask me about their long-term value, I always guide them to TimberTech. They offer top-rated fire resistance and a quality that simply removes the annual chore of staining or sealing. It’s an investment in relaxation, not renovation, that starts with the right material from Bolyard.”
Start Planning Your Deck Today
Don't spend another season sanding and staining. Focus on enjoying your deck. No matter which direction you’re considering—wood, composite, or PVC—our team is here to guide you through styles, colors, railing systems, and installation supplies. Visit Bolyard Lumber & Design to explore TimberTech in person and start planning a deck built for decades of enjoyment.


