Low maintenance decking comes in PVC & HDPE (Reinforced High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). The compelling reason to use an artificial board over lumber is the low maintenance. PVC, synthetic & HDPE decks/porches do not require annual staining or painting. They are splinter free and typically less slippery to wood when wet. They do not rot, twist crack or warp.

HDPE (high density polyethylene) or LDPE (low density polyethylene) have no organics as part of the board composition.

PVC is typically nicer to work with versus composite. PVC decking is lighter, screws easier, (no pre-drilling), and cuts easier. PVC is the world's third-most widely produced synthetic plastic polymer.