PVC Decking

Key Takeaways:

• PVC decking costs $12–$22 per sq ft for materials — premium pricing for premium performance
• 100% synthetic — contains zero wood fibre, making it completely immune to rot and moisture
• Cooler underfoot than composite in direct sunlight — important for pool decks
• Lifespan: 30–50 years with manufacturer warranties up to lifetime
• Best for wet climates (BC coast, Atlantic), waterfront properties, and covered applications

What Makes PVC Different from Composite?

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) decking and composite decking look similar but differ at the molecular level. Composite contains wood fibres mixed with plastic — typically 50/50. PVC decking is 100% cellular PVC with zero wood content.

This matters because wood fibres — even encapsulated in plastic — can absorb small amounts of moisture over time. PVC cannot absorb moisture at all. In high-moisture environments like Vancouver's coast, Atlantic provinces, or pool surrounds, PVC has a measurable performance advantage.

Top PVC Brands in Canada

Brand	Lines	Price Range	Warranty	Notes
AZEK (TimberTech)	Vintage, Harvest	$16–$22/sq ft	Lifetime limited	Market leader in PVC
Wolf Serenity	Seaside, Harbor	$14–$18/sq ft	25-year limited	Good mid-range option
Endeck	—	$12–$16/sq ft	25-year limited	Canadian brand
Zuri Premium	—	$18–$25/sq ft	25-year limited	Ultra-premium appearance

Performance Advantages

Moisture Immunity

PVC decking is 100% waterproof. It cannot swell, warp, or rot regardless of exposure. Install it directly adjacent to pools, hot tubs, or over water features. In coastal environments with salt spray, PVC outlasts every other decking material including composite.

Heat Performance

Contrary to common belief, PVC decking stays cooler underfoot than most composite decking in direct sun. The cellular PVC structure doesn't absorb and retain heat the way wood-filled composite does. AZEK's testing shows surface temperatures up to 30% lower than comparable composite boards.

Stain Resistance

PVC's non-porous surface resists staining from food, beverages, grease, and mould. Red wine, ketchup, sunscreen — wipe them off with soap and water. Try that on a cedar deck.

Installation Differences

PVC decking has higher thermal expansion than composite or wood. In cities with extreme temperature ranges like Calgary or Winnipeg (spans of 70°C+ from winter to summer):

• End-to-end gap: 6mm minimum at butt joints
• Side gap: 5mm between boards
• Never install below -4°C — the material becomes brittle and can crack during cutting
• Use manufacturer-specified fasteners — PVC requires specific screw profiles to prevent mushrooming

Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck

Component	Budget	Mid-Range	Premium
PVC boards	$3,600	$4,800	$6,600
Substructure (PT)	$900	$1,200	$1,500
Fasteners	$200	$350	$500
Railings	$2,000	$3,500	$5,000
Labour	$6,000	$8,400	$12,000
Total installed	$12,700	$18,250	$25,600

PVC vs Composite — Head to Head

Factor	PVC	Composite
Moisture resistance	Superior — zero absorption	Good — capped but wood-core
Heat in sun	Cooler	Warmer
Scratch resistance	Lower — softer surface	Better — mineral caps available
Price	Higher ($12–22/sq ft)	Lower ($6–18/sq ft)
Weight	Lighter	Heavier (wood content)
Environmental	Recyclable PVC	Better — recycled wood + plastic
Appearance	Excellent — realistic grain	Excellent — realistic grain

Who Should Choose PVC?

PVC is the right choice for pool and spa surrounds, waterfront docks, covered porches where moisture drips, and any application where absolute moisture immunity matters more than upfront cost. It's also the preferred material for commercial decks in restaurant patios where food and drink spills are constant.