VS
Overall Winner: Cumaru
Based on price, durability, aesthetics, and eco-friendliness
pvc
PVC Decking
Price$10 – $22 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceNone
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
★ Winner
exotic-wood
Cumaru
Price$8 – $16 per sq ft/sqft
Lifespan
MaintenanceLow
Durability
Aesthetics
Eco-Friendly
Visual Comparison
PVC Decking (10/10)
←
Cumaru (9/10)
PVC Decking (7/10)
→
Cumaru (9/10)
PVC Decking (5/10)
=
Cumaru (5/10)
PVC Decking (6/10)
→
Cumaru (7/10)
Cost for a 300 sq ft Deck (Installed)
PVC Decking
$9,000
to $17,100
Cumaru
$8,400
to $15,300
★ Better Value
PVC Decking
Pros
- Completely waterproof — zero moisture absorption
- Will never rot, even in standing water
- Lightest weight decking option
- Resists mold and mildew
- Excellent for pool surrounds and lakefront
- Longest lifespan
Cons
- Most expensive option
- Can look more "plastic" than composite
- Expands/contracts with temperature
- Limited colour options vs composite
- Not made from natural materials
Cumaru
Pros
- Similar hardness to Ipê at lower cost
- Beautiful golden-brown tones
- Naturally resistant to rot and insects
- Very dense and durable
- More affordable exotic option
Cons
- Still expensive compared to domestic woods
- Imported — sustainability concerns
- Hard to work with — requires pre-drilling
- Can be inconsistent in colour
- Less well-known than Ipê
⚖️
The Verdict
Choose PVC Decking if:
Waterfront properties, pool decks, or anyone wanting maximum durability.
Choose Cumaru if:
Homeowners who want exotic hardwood looks at a lower price than Ipê.
