What Is Capped Composite Decking?

What Is Capped Composite Decking?

What You Should Know About Capped Composite Decking

If you’re researching composite decking, you’ve likely come across the term “capped composite decking.” But what does it actually mean—and is it the right choice for your outdoor space?

Let’s break it down.

What Makes It “Capped”?

Capped composite decking is made with a core of wood fibers and plastic. This core is then wrapped in a protective shell—called a “cap”—made from a tough plastic, like PVC.

This cap protects the deck board from:

  • Moisture
  • UV rays
  • Stains and spills
  • Mold and mildew
  • Scratching and fading

Uncapped composite was one of the first alternatives to wood, but it doesn’t last much longer than wood. The cap is what makes today’s composite decking much more durable and low-maintenance.

Capped composite deck board from Fiberon
Capped composite decking from Fiberon

Trex Decking’s Cap Layer Is Thinner Than Its Competitors

Trex is one of the most well-known names in composite decking. Their boards are capped and offer decent performance for most homeowners. But the cap layer on Trex products is thinner than many of its competitors, making the boards more prone to fading over time—especially in direct sunlight.

Trex is a solid option but not the most long-lasting choice on the market.

PVC Decking Is the Premium Choice

For the highest level of durability and performance, solid PVC boards are hard to beat. PVC decking boards are 100% plastic with no wood content.

That makes them:

  • Perfect for humid climates
  • Great around pools or hot tubs
  • Highly resistant to mold, mildew and water damage

Plus, they maintain their color and texture for years without staining or sealing.

PVC decking from Wolf
PVC decking from Wolf

Which Decking Is Right for You?

Choosing between capped composite and solid PVC decking depends on your budget, how much maintenance you want to do and the environment your deck will be in. Capped composite is a great all-around option, but solid PVC provides next-level durability and weather resistance.

Dutch Way Has the Decking Expertise You Need

Dutch Way supplies premium decking materials from trusted brands like Wolf Home Products and Fiberon Decking. Serving Rockingham County, Virginia and the surrounding area, our team is here to answer your questions, explain your options and help you choose the best PVC composite decking material for your space and budget.

Contact Us Today to Begin Your Composite Decking Project!

Customer Reviews

Our customers love
our work. Here’s why.

star iconstar iconstar iconstar iconstar icon

Bridget Smith

Dutch Way came this morning to begin the process of our vinyl fence. They have been extremely polite and easy to work with, knowledgable, patient and professional as we changed our minds a few times about what we wanted. Our fence posts are just starting to be put in, but I would already highly recommend them! Can’t wait to see the finished product.

star iconstar iconstar iconstar iconstar icon

Ryan Kline

Only place to go if you are looking for a quality fence at a reasonable price. The staff are professional and care about doing a quality job and making the customer happy. Thanks for everything Dutch Way! I wouldn’t use anyone else!

star iconstar iconstar iconstar iconstar icon

Sarah & Tom Ferguson

We are very pleased with the beautiful decking, railing, and lattice recently installed at our home. Visitors have commented on how great it looks. Claude and Justin are very skilled, talented, patient, and steadfast. You have two very valuable employees who handle working under less-than-pleasant conditions and nasty weather with professionalism and grace. Most happy to give Dutch Way company and their employees a great review!

News

Get the inside scoop about the newest trends, products and techniques in the fencing, railing and decking world.

Vinyl fence cleaning

Fence Cleaning Made Simple: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Cleaning your fence doesn’t have to be complicated, but the right approach depends on the material. Learn how to care for wood, vinyl and aluminum fencing while keeping maintenance to a minimum.
Vinyl Fencing

Is a Fence Required for an Above-Ground Pool?

Albemarle County homeowners: find out if pool fencing is required for your above-ground or in-ground pool. Learn about state regulations, safety tips, quality materials and professional installation.