Why PVC handles moisture so well
Because PVC contains no organic wood fiber, there's nothing in the board for moisture to swell or for mold to feed on, although mildew can still grow on surface dirt.
That makes PVC a strong choice for pool surrounds, docks, low decks with little airflow, and shaded yards where other boards stay damp.
When is PVC worth more than composite?
Around pools, under trees, on low decks with little airflow, and anywhere boards stay wet. Elsewhere, quality capped composite often performs similarly for less.
Does PVC decking stay cooler?
Lighter PVC colors and heat-mitigating product lines can stay more comfortable than dark composite. Color still dominates; compare samples in your own sun.
What installation details matter for PVC?
- Follow temperature-based gap charts closely.
- Use approved fasteners or plugs.
- Allow movement at fascia and borders.
- Confirm joist spacing for the specific board.
How do you clean PVC decking?
Use mild soap and water or the manufacturer's recommended cleaner and a soft brush. Rinse pool chemicals and remove leaf debris that can leave tannin stains.
What colors and textures does PVC decking come in?
PVC lines range from light grays and whites suited to coastal and pool settings to wood-look browns with embossed grain. Lighter colors stay cooler and show less fading; multi-tone streaking hides dust and pollen. Because PVC is often chosen for wet areas, prioritize textured, slip-resistant finishes over smooth ones, and order samples to compare in your own light.
How does PVC decking handle stains and spills?
Because PVC has no organic content, most food, drink and grease spills stay on the surface and wash off with soap and water if cleaned promptly. Leaves, pine needles and rust from metal furniture can still leave marks if they sit for weeks, so regular sweeping and furniture pads help keep the surface looking new.
Can PVC decking go on an old wood frame?
Only if the frame is sound and spaced correctly. PVC's long life is wasted on framing near the end of its service, so inspect thoroughly before re-decking.
How does pvc decking differ across the states we serve?
PVC's advantage grows with the number of wet days. The figure varies most between Washington (95) and Minnesota (60).
| State | Wet days / yr (median) | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia | 80 | Frequent rain: flashing, drainage and airflow protect pvc decking |
| Illinois | 74 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for pvc decking |
| Kansas | 60 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for pvc decking |
| Maryland | 81 | Frequent rain: flashing, drainage and airflow protect pvc decking |
| Massachusetts | 82 | Frequent rain: flashing, drainage and airflow protect pvc decking |
| Minnesota | 60 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for pvc decking |
| North Carolina | 75 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for pvc decking |
| Pennsylvania | 79 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for pvc decking |
| Tennessee | 84 | Frequent rain: flashing, drainage and airflow protect pvc decking |
| Virginia | 77 | Drier spells: sun and checking are as important as moisture for pvc decking |
| Washington | 95 | Frequent rain: flashing, drainage and airflow protect pvc decking |
Figures are medians across our covered communities in each state, from NOAA 1991–2020 climate normals and the Census Bureau's 2020–2024 American Community Survey. Each state and community page explains local conditions in more detail.