Maintenance Free decking is a low-maintenance and very durable alternative to cedar. With $1 billion invested annually, the composite deck business has had tremendous expansion in just the last two decades. By next year, it is predicted to account for about a third of the decking market. For busy homeowners who don’t have the time for intensive Brite decking upkeep, composite decking is becoming more and more popular. Compared to cedar, composite decking is more durable and waterproof since it is constructed of wood fibres covered in plastic. But not every composite deck is made equally. To ensure you purchase the greatest deck for your money, take a look at how different composite deck brands might be from one another:
Recycled items.
Manufacturers may make composite decking eco-friendly by using recycled wood and plastic, although not all companies do so. Materials that can be used to make composite decking range from 100 percent virgin to 100 percent recycled. WestStar composite decking, created especially for the Pacific Northwest, is comprised completely of recycled materials.
Wood to plastic ratio
Ratios of wood to plastic can also fluctuate. While many manufacturers use an equal mix of wood and plastic, some products contain as much as 70% wood. A higher wood percentage will make the completed product more prone to rot and mould.
With plastic.
Composite decks made from recycled materials should use High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) polymers, which are derived from heavy items like milk jugs, detergent bottles, and soda bottles. These plastics persist longer than weaker plastics because they degrade more slowly.
Ask These Questions Your Composite Decking Contractor
Whether you’re having a deck installed or building one yourself, you should find out the following information before purchasing composite decking materials:
What type of warranty does it have?
Composite deck warranties can be as long as a lifetime or as short as a 10- to 20-year material guarantee. Find out if the guarantee covers problems like checking, splintering, and termite damage. Find out what actions, including painting, will void your guarantee.
How will the deck boards be fastened?
Contractors typically use screws or nails to secure deck boards to the framework. This can cause nearby wood fibres to develop cracks or fissures due to moisture damage. For an additional fee, some contractors can avoid this damage by using hidden deck clips to fasten the boards to the frame.
Has the decking material been given a non-slip treatment?
Composite decking may become slippery due to water or mildew. For added safety, pick a brand with a non-skid finish.
What level of fading should people expect?
The majority of composite decks may slightly fade in the sun due to the lignin in the wood material. To aid with this, some manufacturers incorporate UV protection.
How can people prolong the life of my deck?
Given that composite decking might vary, it never hurts to ask your builder for specific maintenance suggestions based on the brand of deck you’re purchasing.
Conclusion:- Early composite decking had a more plastic-like feel and appearance than wood did, but modern designs might make it impossible for your guests to tell the difference! Currently, a wide range of colours, profiles, and finishes—from ultra-modern to ultra-realistic—are available for WPC.
