When it comes to choosing the right composite decking for outdoor spaces, homeowners and contractors often face the challenge of comparing multiple brands. Among the most popular names in the market are Fiberon Armorguard Decking and Hosung Decking. While both claim durability, low-maintenance, and aesthetic appeal, a closer look reveals significant differences in materials, performance, design flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.
Table of Contents
In this article, we will provide a detailed comparison of Fiberon Armorguard Decking vs Hosung Decking, helping you make an informed decision. By the end, you will see why Hosung stands out as the superior choice for modern decking needs.
Introduction to the Brands
Fiberon Armorguard Decking
Fiberon is a U.S.-based brand well known for composite decking. Its Armorguard line is available through major retailers like Home Depot. It emphasizes affordability and basic performance, targeting homeowners looking for entry-level composite decking.
Key points:
Widely available in the U.S.
Marketed as budget-friendly.
Focus on scratch and stain resistance.
Hosung Decking
Hosung is a leading global manufacturer of WPC (Wood Plastic Composite) decking, specializing in advanced extrusion technology. With over 20 years of manufacturing expertise, Hosung offers decking solutions that combine durability, eco-friendliness, and design flexibility. Unlike many mass-market brands, Hosung focuses on quality consistency and customized solutions, serving both residential and commercial projects worldwide.
Key points:
Over two decades of professional manufacturing experience.
Advanced co-extrusion technology.
Competitive global pricing.
Strong export reputation in North America, Europe, and Australia.
Material Composition
The heart of any composite decking lies in its material formulation. Both brands use a blend of wood fibers and plastic polymers, but the proportions and processes differ.
| Brand | Material Composition | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiberon Armorguard | 50% recycled wood fibers, 50% recycled plastics | Affordable, eco-friendly | Higher water absorption, risk of swelling |
| Hosung Decking | 55% wood fiber, 35% HDPE, 10% additives (UV stabilizers, anti-oxidants, pigments) | Stronger structure, higher UV resistance, lower water absorption | Slightly higher upfront price but better value long-term |
Verdict: Hosung offers a more balanced formula, enhanced with additives that protect against UV damage, color fading, and moisture — giving it longer-lasting durability compared to Armorguard.
Major Product Line Comparison: Fiberon Armorguard vs Hosung Decking
When comparing decking brands, it is not enough to simply look at the material composition or warranties. The actual product lines offered by each company reveal how versatile, innovative, and user-focused the brand is. Both Fiberon Armorguard and Hosung have developed their own range of products, but they differ greatly in terms of variety, customization, and technical innovation.
Fiberon Armorguard Product Line
Fiberon’s Armorguard series is positioned as an entry-level composite decking solution. The collection is relatively simple and mainly consists of:
Grooved Edge Boards: Designed for hidden fastening systems, commonly used in DIY projects.
Square Edge Boards: Typically used for stair treads or perimeter framing.
Color Range: Limited to a few basic earth tones such as brown, gray, and tan. The shades are intentionally neutral, making them widely applicable, but they lack the richness and variation found in premium products.
Sizes and Profiles: Standardized dimensions with little flexibility.
The Armorguard product line is best suited for budget-conscious homeowners who want a low-cost composite alternative to pressure-treated lumber. However, its limited color palette and basic woodgrain embossing make it less attractive for modern architectural projects that demand unique aesthetics.
Hosung Decking Product Line
Hosung’s product line is significantly broader and more sophisticated, reflecting its commitment to both residential and commercial clients. Key categories include:
Traditional WPC Decking: Made with high-quality wood-plastic composite material, offering affordability with durability.
Co-Extrusion Decking (Capped Decking): Advanced technology where each board is capped with a protective polymer layer, providing superior scratch, fade, and stain resistance.
3D Deep Woodgrain Decking: Boards designed with rich, realistic textures that mimic natural hardwood, available in multiple tones for enhanced design flexibility.
Hollow and Solid Profiles: Options to reduce weight (hollow boards for residential patios) or maximize strength (solid boards for commercial walkways, pool decks, and public projects).
Customized Solutions: Hosung allows clients to choose colors, surface finishes, and even board dimensions, something not typically available in mass-retail brands like Fiberon.
Comparative Insight
The biggest difference lies in innovation and diversity. Fiberon Armorguard focuses on simplicity and cost-efficiency, which may be appealing for small DIY backyard projects. However, it falls short when it comes to advanced technology, realistic aesthetics, and project-specific customization. Hosung, on the other hand, has a comprehensive product line that adapts to different climates, budgets, and design needs. Whether it’s a luxury hotel terrace, a seaside boardwalk, or a family backyard, Hosung has a tailored solution.
Verdict: For homeowners or contractors who want more than just a basic composite deck, Hosung’s product line clearly outshines Fiberon Armorguard in both variety and performance.
Durability and Performance
Decking should withstand daily wear, changing weather, and long-term use. Here’s how the two compare:
Fiberon Armorguard
Basic resistance to rot and splintering.
Coating helps reduce scratches, but not immune to heavy impact.
Susceptible to fading after long sun exposure.
Prone to mold growth in humid climates if not cleaned regularly.
Hosung Decking
Uses co-extrusion capping technology, ensuring a protective shield against scratches, stains, and fading.
Superior moisture resistance due to low water absorption rate (<0.5%).
Performs exceptionally well in extreme climates (hot summers, freezing winters).
Resistant to termites, mildew, and mold.
Verdict: Hosung decking outperforms Armorguard in both durability and long-term resilience, making it ideal for areas with harsh weather conditions.
Color Options and Design Flexibility
Color selection is a critical factor when planning an outdoor deck, as it directly influences the aesthetic appeal and overall harmony with the surrounding environment. Both Fiberon Armorguard and Hosung Decking offer color options, but the range, vibrancy, and customization potential differ significantly.
Fiberon Armorguard Color Options
Fiberon Armorguard provides a limited palette of neutral earth tones, including shades of brown, gray, and tan. These colors are intended to blend naturally with outdoor settings and provide a safe, classic look. While suitable for standard backyard patios or budget-conscious DIY projects, the Armorguard range offers minimal variation. The uniformity of color across boards can make large spaces appear somewhat monotonous, and it restricts the ability to create dynamic visual patterns or contrasting accents.
Hosung Decking Color Options
Hosung excels in this area with a wide array of colors and finishes that cater to modern design trends:
Natural Wood Tones: Rich teak, walnut, and cedar-inspired hues for a traditional yet luxurious appearance.
Modern Neutrals: Charcoal gray, soft beige, and graphite for contemporary decks that suit minimalist architecture.
Dual-Tone Boards: Featuring subtle variations along the grain to mimic real hardwood, adding depth and visual interest.
Custom Colors: Hosung can manufacture boards in specific shades to match project branding, furniture, or surrounding landscaping.
Design Flexibility
The broad color selection of Hosung Decking allows homeowners and designers to experiment with contrast, shading, and complementary tones, creating unique outdoor environments. For example:
Using lighter tones for poolside areas to reduce heat absorption.
Mixing dark and medium hues to visually expand terrace spaces.
Coordinating deck color with outdoor furniture, fences, and plantings for a cohesive design.
Verdict: While Fiberon Armorguard provides basic neutral options, Hosung Decking offers superior color variety and design flexibility, making it ideal for projects that demand both style and personality.
Aesthetic Options
Fiberon Armorguard
Limited color range (mostly earth tones).
Simple woodgrain embossing.
Suitable for budget-conscious projects but less variety for high-end design needs.
Hosung Decking
Offers extensive design options including:
Multiple color palettes (charcoal grey, teak, walnut, cedar, etc.).
Customizable finishes (brushed, embossed, or deep woodgrain).
Dual-tone co-extrusion boards for a more natural look.
Compatible with mix-and-match designs for modern outdoor aesthetics.
Verdict: Hosung provides greater design freedom, helping architects, designers, and homeowners achieve personalized looks.
Installation and Maintenance
| Feature | Fiberon Armorguard | Hosung Decking |
|---|---|---|
| Installation System | Hidden fastener compatible, available at Home Depot | Hidden fasteners + customized accessories |
| Ease of Cutting | Standard tools required | Standard tools, more flexible edge finishing |
| Maintenance | Requires cleaning with soap and water, potential mold removal in humid areas | Almost maintenance-free, simple wash with water |
| Warranty Coverage | 25-year residential, limited coverage | Up to 30-year residential, extended fade & stain warranty |
Verdict: Hosung offers longer warranties and simpler maintenance, reinforcing its position as a premium, hassle-free decking solution.
Environmental Impact
Sustainability has become a key consideration for modern consumers.
Fiberon Armorguard: Promotes eco-friendly content with high recycled material usage. However, its shorter lifespan means earlier replacement, which may reduce long-term eco benefits.
Hosung Decking: Uses recycled HDPE and reclaimed wood fibers, combined with a longer service life (up to 30+ years). This results in lower overall environmental footprint.
Verdict: Hosung delivers a more sustainable choice, combining eco-friendly materials with longer durability.
Price and Value
Fiberon Armorguard
Known as a budget-friendly entry-level product.
Average cost: $2.20–$2.60 per linear foot (U.S. retail).
Lower upfront investment, but higher long-term maintenance.
Hosung Decking
Competitive pricing for premium-grade WPC.
Average cost: $2.80–$3.20 per linear foot (depending on order volume and customization).
Longer lifespan, lower maintenance costs, and stronger warranties.
Verdict: While Fiberon seems cheaper upfront, Hosung delivers superior long-term value because of durability, warranty, and reduced maintenance needs.
Installation
Merbau
Can be nailed or screwed directly onto timber joists
Requires pre-drilling for clean finish
Heavier than WPC
Hosung WPC
Quick and easy installation using clip system
Lightweight boards reduce labor intensity
Can be installed on timber or aluminum subframes
✅ Winner: Hosung WPC – Easier and cleaner installation process.
Customer Experience and Market Reach
Fiberon Armorguard
Easily available at big-box retailers.
Suitable for DIY homeowners with smaller budgets.
Some customer complaints about color fading and staining issues.
Hosung Decking
Trusted by contractors, architects, and distributors worldwide.
Offers customized solutions for large projects.
Excellent after-sales support, with technical guidance on installation and design.
Positive feedback from international markets (Australia, U.S., Europe).
Real-World Applications
Fiberon Armorguard: Mostly used in small residential backyards or DIY patio projects.
Hosung Decking: Applied in residential, commercial, and public spaces, including:
Luxury poolside decking.
Outdoor restaurants.
Hotel terraces.
Large-scale municipal walkways.
The versatility of Hosung decking makes it the preferred choice for both personal use and professional projects.
Side-by-Side Comparison Summary
| Feature | Fiberon Armorguard | Hosung Decking |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Good | Excellent |
| Scratch Resistance | Moderate | High |
| Fade Resistance | Moderate | Superior |
| Water Absorption | Higher | Lower |
| Color Variety | Limited | Extensive |
| Warranty | 25 years | Up to 30 years |
| Price | Lower upfront | Better long-term value |
| Applications | Residential only | Residential + Commercial |
Why Hosung is the Better Choice
After comparing Fiberon Armorguard vs Hosung Decking, the results are clear:
Stronger and longer-lasting materials.
Better resistance against UV, moisture, and scratches.
More design flexibility and customization options.
Longer warranties and stronger after-sales support.
Competitive pricing that delivers higher long-term value.
For homeowners seeking a stylish and reliable outdoor deck or contractors looking for a trusted global supplier, Hosung is the superior choice.
Conclusion
While Fiberon Armorguard is a decent option for budget-conscious homeowners shopping at local retailers, it falls short in key areas like durability, design versatility, and long-term performance. Hosung Decking, with its advanced co-extrusion technology, superior resilience, and wide aesthetic options, offers an investment that pays off over decades.
If you are planning your next outdoor decking project, Hosung Decking clearly stands out as the smarter, more durable, and more stylish choice.
