Designing an area that is perfect for poolside parties and at the same time, ensuring safety and style would mainly depend on the decking material used. As your pool deck is going to be exposed to water, heat, sun, and foot traffic, the material you choose should be capable of handling all these without any damage and not just be appealing to the eye. Currently, many homeowners are comparing WPC Decking with traditional wood to determine which is better for the swimming pool area. Even the top Swimming Pool Companies in Dubai are not immune to this trend as they opt for modern decking materials due to their promising long-term benefits.
In case you are setting up a pool area or want to upgrade it, below is a detailed humanized comparison between WPC and natural wood that will provide you with the most informed choice.
1. Durability and Weather Resistance
WPC Decking (Wood Plastic Composite) is typically tougher than real wood - the variance becomes significantly higher if the weather is severe.
The poolside area is a perfect instance of a location that is subjected to water splashes, elevated humidity, and solar UV radiation. Accordingly, resistance to moisture and temperature variations in this case is similar to breathing or being alive or dead.
How WPC performs:
Not susceptible to warping and cracking
Does not produce splinters
Absorbs moisture from the air well
Retains colour for a long time
How wood performs:
If that is the case, the wood can rot and swell
Must be sealed or varnished every year
May develop cracks as a result of ageing
Colour fades quicker
This is one of the reasons why Swimming Pool Companies in Dubai advise the use of composite materials around the pool, because they are less demanding in terms of maintenance and can last for years while still looking fresh and intact.
2. Safety and Slip Resistance
It should be emphasised that the utmost caution is required to guarantee the safety of those present in the pool area, which is actually the main concern. A slippery floor may lead one to slip and fall, and among kids and the elderly are the ones who can be hurt the most in such mishaps.
WPC Decking safety advantages:
Anti-slip feature
Comfortable to step on
No splinters
Wood safety considerations:
It can become slippery when wet
Splinters may form as wood ages
You have to regularly sand it to keep it smooth.
WPC's non-slip surface is definitely a relief for the parents, particularly in houses where children are the ones who are always running and playing by the water.
3. Maintenance Requirements
Most of the time, wooden decking will require more attention from you. If you are admiring the beauty of the wood but at the same time you don’t want to be bothered with the maintenance, this fact may greatly influence your choice.
WPC care:
Can be left unwashed for a long time, but needs occasional cleaning
No polishing or varnish is required
Keeps looking new for years
Wood care:
Needs repainting, polishing, or sealing
It can be easily infected with mould and mildew
Cleaning should be done more thoroughly to remove the absorbed water
If a family is leading a busy life WPC will be a better option for them.
4. Aesthetic Appeal
Wood has the ability to produce a warm, sunny and natural atmosphere, which is a favourite of many homeowners. Nevertheless, WPC has been developing and is now available in pretty accurate wood-look finishes that make the natural look of the materials hardly distinguishable.
Aesthetic pros:
WPC is available in a trendy wood colour
Wood gives a timeless, nature-inspired vibe
Besides that, both will look perfect around the poolside gardens
The decision here is entirely dependent on your taste, but WPC can give you a wood-like appearance for a much longer time than wood.
5. Cost and Long-Term Value
On the surface, wood may look like a cheaper option, but you will have to pay more over time for maintenance and repairs. WPC carries a slightly higher price tag for the first and is a good value for money in the long run.
Think of the cost that comes with the length of time:
WPC: Higher durability = lower maintenance cost
Wood: Lower initial cost = higher yearly upkeep
In a situation of a strong item with minimal spending per year, WPC will probably be your choice.
So, Which Is Better for Pool Areas?
All the materials mentioned have some nice features, but typically, WPC takes the trophy in the case of poolside wood, as it is a long-lasting, safe, and low-maintenance type of material. People who wish to have a wooden deck with a natural, vintage style can still choose regular wood; however, it is necessary that they put more effort and especially if they live in hot or humid areas.
Final Thoughts
The choice between WPC or wood for decking is a question that depends on factors such as your lifestyle, maintenance preference, and the long-term vision of your poolside area. Considering that moisture, heat, and noise are daily companions of swimming pools, WPC appears to be a safer and more reliable choice. A growing number of experts, among them top Swimming Pool Companies in Dubai, are now WPC advocates for homeowners who want both durability and beauty.
Progren Flooring is your one-stop shop for top-grade WPC products and expert outdoor solutions if you are looking for long-lasting decking options that not only elevate but also add safety to your poolside area.
