Composite decking benefits. Let’s talk about them.
Composite is an increasingly popular decking material option, but there are still a lot of questions surrounding it. In this blog post we’re going to be taking a look at exactly what composite decking is.
We’ll also learn about composite decking benefits, as well as looking at the pros and cons of composite decking compared to PVC and traditional wood decking.
What exactly is composite decking?
Composite decking is an artificial blend of recycled materials, primarily plastic and wood fibres. It’s a durable decking material that is aesthetically similar to traditional wood decking, but requires far less maintenance.
What are some of the alternatives to composite decking?
When considering decking for your outdoor space, your main three choices are composite, wood, and PVC (plastic) decking.
Timber decking can be made from a variety of different softwoods and hardwoods, such as oak, cedar, and timber. Each wood species has different properties and all will be slightly different when used as decking, but the overall results will be largely the same no matter which type of wood you select. Wood is the traditional decking option; it feels sturdy underfoot, and has a classic aesthetic. However, it is notoriously high maintenance, and even with a lot of care and treatment, wooden boards are still prone to rotting, splintering, and warping.
Plastic decking is entirely comprised of synthetic materials, and is non-recyclable and non-biodegradable. Compared to traditional wood decking, it is incredibly low maintenance and easy to look after. However, plastic deck boards are often flimsy and prone to splitting, and they tend not to look as nice as real wood.
Read More: Composite Decking Benefits | Better than Wood!
Top 5 Benefits of Composite Decking:
Benefit 1: Less Maintenance
Traditional wood decking requires a lot of upkeep and treatment to maintain, and even with high levels of attention, it will often deteriorate at quite a rapid rate compared to composite decking. Composite decking's plastic-based blend leaves it resistant to damp, rot, and other issues that frequently affect hardwood deck boards. (Composite decking is also much easier to clean!)
Benefit 2: More Aesthetically Pleasing
While plastic decking may be relatively easy to take care of, there’s no way around the glaringly artificial look, feel, and even sound of the plastic boards underfoot. While not exactly the same as wood, composite is free from the low-quality feel and aesthetic of plastic.
Benefit 3: More Durable
Wood decking needs a lot of treatment with harsh chemicals to survive as long as composite decking, but even with all that maintenance, wood decking is still prone to warping, splintering, twisting, and rot. Plastic decking is also prone to warping and splitting, whereas composite decking is designed to last a life time.
Benefit 4: Environmentally Friendly
If you’re an individual who cares about the environment and sustainability, here’s another reason why composite decking is the right choice for you: composite decking is more environmentally friendly than alternative decking options because it’s made of recycled materials.
Plastic decking is arguably the most environmentally unfriendly decking option on the market. It’s made of a variety of plastics, and while this means that it doesn’t have to be sealed, waxed, or have any other chemicals added to it after its installation, unfortunately it's not biodegradable.
The third option, wood decking, might seem like the most environmentally friendly option due to its organic nature, but the trees that are felled for production contribute to deforestation, and the transportation of the wood adds to pollution. Furthermore, the chemicals used to wax and seal the wood to draw out its lifespan are toxic and dangerous; when compared to some of the most common decking alternatives, it’s easy to see why so many people opt for composite decking.
Benefit 5: Slip Resistant
Being a slip-resistant material makes composite decking a safer option, increasing accessibility and reducing safety concerns for persons who might be unsteady on their feet or have mobility issues.
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There you have it: five fantastic benefits of composite decking and why it is the best option for your next decking project! Browse our range of composite decking boards to explore the different colours and styles we offer.
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Read More: Pros & Cons of Composite Decking
