The Benefits of Composite Decking

Composite decking is made by combining wood fibers and different types of recycled plastic. This material is then formed into boards that resemble real wood.

Composite decking is easy to cut and fasten, like wood. It is also more resistant to fading and staining. However, it can still be vulnerable to mold and mildew growth.

Benefits

A well-designed deck can increase your home value by up to 31.6%, but it’s also a great way to spend time with family and friends without having to deal with the demanding cycle of staining and sealing wood decks. With composite decking, you can enjoy your beautiful backyard retreat for years to come.

One of the most appealing features of composite decking is that it’s fade-resistant. That means it will maintain its vibrant, clean appearance throughout the seasons.

Additionally, composite decks aren’t prone to the cracking and splitting that can occur with traditional wood boards. That’s a big benefit for homeowners with kids and pets that often walk on their decks barefoot.

Composite decks are made of a mixture of recycled wood fibres and plastics, which saves trees. In addition, many manufacturers use capped boards, which have synthetic cores and protective plastic wrappers. This keeps the composite boards looking new longer and prevents them from becoming prone to mold and mildew growth.

Cost

The upfront cost of composite decking is higher than traditional woods, however the long term financial investment is worth it. Because of its durability, composite will need fewer repairs or resealing than timber decking. It will also need less maintenance over the years, saving homeowners money on labour and chemicals.

The size of your deck, the type of railings and features like pergolas, built-in benches or lighting will affect your total project cost. Additionally, site preparation and grading are additional costs that will vary depending on your project location.

If your yard is full of bushes, trees, or rocks that would impede the construction of your deck, it will be necessary to remove these obstructions before the project begins. Professional xeriscaping services typically cost $5 – $20 per square foot. In addition, local building regulations may require a permit or inspections for your new deck. If this is the case, these additional fees will be added to your total project cost.

Maintenance

Composite decking requires less maintenance than traditional wood decking. However, it is still important to clean your deck regularly to keep it looking great. This helps to prevent grime buildup and promotes the health of the composite material.

Sweep your deck daily with a broom or use a garden hose to remove light dirt and debris. You can use a pressure washer to remove more stubborn dirt. Be sure to only use a cleaner that is safe for your specific composite material.

Cleaning your deck is simple using soap and water or a commercial deck cleaner made specifically for composites. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers as they can damage the surface.

Maintaining your composite deck can also help you extend its life. Regular inspections can help you catch loose boards, popped fasteners, or structural problems early on. You should also keep your deck clear of rock salt or other debris that can speed up rot. Also, avoiding organic mulch and keeping flowerpots away from the deck can prevent moisture from soaking into the composite materials.

Environment

Many homeowners are looking for eco-friendly building materials that have low impact on the environment, and composite decking is one of these options. The material is crafted from recycled wood and plastic materials which help reduce the use of non-renewable resources. It also helps to cut down on deforestation, which is a major contributor to climate change.

However, not all composite decking is created equal in terms of eco-credentials. Some products require a lot of energy to produce and may contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the environment over time.

Alternatively, natural wood options such as cedar or redwood can be sourced from responsibly harvested trees and do not require the use of any toxic chemicals for maintenance. Lastly, many manufacturers who focus on sustainability will recycle composite boards back into new board. This helps to reduce landfill waste and contribute to a circular economy.

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