How to Choose the Right Decking Material (That Doesn’t Get Hot or Slippery)
Alexandra Wilson- Apr 14
- 3 min read
Tips from a Trusted Deck Builder in Chester County, PA
When it comes to building your dream deck, choosing the right material isn’t just about looks—it’s about how your deck performs in real life. At Iron Ridge Contracting, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners in Kennett Square, Chadds Ford, Landenberg, and beyond create outdoor spaces that look great, feel safe, and last for decades.
Here’s what you need to know when comparing composite decking materials—and why it pays to build with a team who knows what works right here in Chester County.
Safety Matters: What About Slippery Surfaces?
Rain, morning dew, and pool water can all turn the wrong decking into a slip hazard. That’s why we only recommend products that offer texture and traction—no slick, glossy finishes.
What to ask for:
Slip resistance rating (many TimberTech lines are tested for this)
Textured grain patterns for better foot grip
Proper spacing and drainage during installation
Pro Tip: We’ll show you real sample boards in our Ridge Room showroom so you can feel the texture yourself.
Durability, Appearance & Warranty
Not all composite boards age the same. Fading, staining, and splitting can still happen—especially if the product isn’t installed properly or if it’s not suited for our Mid-Atlantic climate.
Why Iron Ridge stands out:
We’re a Certified TimberTech & Deckorators Pro—with exclusive training and warranties
We build for year-round durability in Chester County’s four seasons
We match decking to your lifestyle: low maintenance, high performance, and timeless design
Deckorators® Voyage vs. TimberTech® Advanced PVC
What’s the Right Choice for Your Chester County Deck?
When homeowners visit the Ridge Room for their consultation, one of the biggest decisions they face is choosing the right decking material. Two of the top-tier options we recommend at Iron Ridge Contracting are:
Here’s a breakdown to help you (and your clients) compare apples to apples.
Material Composition
Deckorators Voyage: Mineral-Based Composite (MBC)
Ultra-dense core made of minerals and polymer
35% lighter than traditional composites
Nearly no expansion/contraction—great for Chester County’s seasonal swings
TimberTech Advanced PVC: Capped PVC (Polymer Core)
100% PVC core, capped on all sides
Lightweight, very low moisture absorption
Highly resistant to mold, mildew, and warping
Both are ultra-low maintenance—but TimberTech wins slightly for poolside moisture resistance.
Heat Retention (Cool to the Touch)
Stays cooler than wood or standard composite
Has textured finish that allows airflow beneath your feet
Among the coolest-to-the-touch in the industry
Light colors reflect heat very effectively
Winner: TimberTech, especially in lighter tones. Ideal for sun-drenched decks.
Slip Resistance
Industry-leading slip resistance, even when wet
Great for homeowners with kids, pets, or near pools
Textured grain helps, but not as high slip resistance as Voyage
Winner: Deckorators, especially for safety-conscious families or poolside builds.
Appearance & Style
Vertical grain pattern for a natural, hardwood-inspired look
Color lines: Sierra, Costa, Mesa, Tundra, etc. (earthy tones)
Wider range of colors including coastal grays, driftwood, and modern finishes
More realistic wood textures and embossing
Winner: Tie – Depends on the homeowner’s aesthetic.
Warranty
Deckorators: 50-year structural, 25-year stain & fade
TimberTech: Lifetime limited warranty, 50-year fade & stain (on select lines)
Both brands offer some of the best protection in the industry.
Our Recommendation at Iron Ridge Contracting
We help each client choose based on:
Sun exposure? → TimberTech Advanced PVC in light tones
Slippery surface concerns? → Deckorators Voyage
Style-driven? → Let’s bring samples and design it together
Local climate needs? → Both perform exceptionally in PA’s hot summers & cold winters
Comments