When it comes to choosing the right kind of decking for your garden, the different options can be really overwhelming. Nowadays, you can get your hands on timber, plastic, and composite deck boards pretty easily, but knowing which one is the best for you can be a bit of a challenge. There are pros and cons with every type of decking, so it's important to get your head around the different features and attributes before you start your garden re-design.
If you've never shopped for garden decking before, you might be asking the question - "what is bad about composite decking?" Composite decking is relatively new on the decking market, with traditional timber boards being a popular choice for decades. It's clear to see why some people might struggle to decide which type of decking they should buy without all of the information.
Is composite decking weaker than timber?
While it's true that composite decking isn't as strong as timber decking, composite decking is not "bad". All decking has to be installed on a decking subframe with joist centres between 300 and 400mm. Composite decking is strong and fit for purpose when it's installed in exactly the same way as additional timber decking, so you wouldn't even notice a difference!
Here at DeckPlus, we actually offer an innovative decking subframe called Easy-Frame which is made of zinc coated steel that's ultra-durable and will last much longer than traditional wooden sub-frames. When you choose to purchase composite decking with an Easy-Frame, you can rest assured that your deck will be just as strong (if not stronger) than a traditional wooden deck.
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Is composite decking bad for the environment?
With climate change on the forefront of everyone's minds, you might be wondering how eco-friendly composite decking is compared to traditional wood. Composite decking is not a bad option if you're trying to be environmentally conscious, in fact, our composite decking is made with a mixture of reclaimed FSC timber and post-production plastics. So no, composite decking is not bad for the environment, it actually prevents waste materials from going to landfill and gives them a new lease of life.
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Why should I choose composite decking over timber or plastic?
Here are some of the main reasons why composite decking is not a bad choice when compared to timber or plastic decking:
- Composite decking is easier to clean, requiring only the occasional power wash to remove surface debris.
- Composite decking is designed to last a lifetime. It's made of durable, long-lasting materials that won't rot or warp.
- Composite decking is environmentally friendly unlike plastic which contains lots of harsh, man-made chemicals.
- Composite decking doesn't need to be treated, painted or stained meaning maintenance requirements are minimal.
- Composite decking is slip-resistant unlike timber decking which can become an ice-rink in freezing temperatures.
So, if you've been wondering whether composite decking is bad or not, the answer is no, composite decking is actually a really great option for most gardens. It may not be structurally as strong as traditional timber boards, but with the right subframe, you won't know the difference! Composite decking has lots of appealing qualities that make it a much more reliable and long-lasting choice for your garden deck.
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