Here are composite decking advantages to help you make the decision.
Are you looking to replace your outdoor deck this year? Is your existing wooden deck looking like something that belongs on a sinking boat? If so, you should consider composite decking. It has become very popular in recent years due to its many benefits over wood and other materials. If you are looking to save money and have an environmentally friendly patio, composite decking is the perfect material for you and your family.
How can composite decking be better than traditional wood decking? Here are the main composite decking advantages to help you determine if it's right for you.
Durability - Composite Decking Advantages
When we talk about composite decking advantages, durability comes first. Composite deck boards are designed for maximum strength, don't split, rot and crack as standard wood decks can. They are made by combining plastics and wood fibres to provide a hard-wearing patio material that can withstand sun, rain and practically any extreme weather conditions. Some manufacturers declare that it can last up to 30 years and offer extensive warranties.
Safety - Composite Decking Advantages
As nobody wants to slip in the garden and end up with a broken leg or other injuries, the most popular question that decking manufacturers are asked is: "how slippery the decking is in wet environments?". The majority of composite decking boards have a 'low slip potential based on the BS7976 - 2: 2002 Standard (Pendulum Slip Testing), thanks to the grain embedded in their surface.
Another worth mentioning safety feature of composite decking is that it has a hidden fastener system designed to remain hidden from sight and reduce the risk of accidents with children and animals. The risks of loose screws popping up above the boards being a severe hazard for little feet, big feet and paws are effectively eliminated.
Aesthetics - Composite Decking Advantages
Talking about composite decking advantages, we need to mention its aesthetics. Most synthetic deck boards are produced with authentic wood grain patterns and textured ridges, providing all the natural beauty of timber in a most robust form. Thanks to the concealed fastener systems, the finished surfaces always look smart and elegant. The choice of colours and finishing edges available on the market is impressive and, when creatively combined, provides a modern finish and added value to the property.
Low maintenance - Composite Decking Advantages
Every wood deck owner is no stranger to the amount of work required to keep it in pristine and weather-resistant conditions. If you opt for a synthetic deck, you will enjoy using it for a very long time without much maintenance, ultimately gaining convenience, more time to relax and peace of mind. Composite deck boards never require painting and are low maintenance, while wood decks must be re-stained regularly to protect them from decay, moisture, sun damage and other factors. Designed to maintain its aesthetics, shape and colour, composite decking only requires an occasional wash with soapy water and regular sweeping (especially during autumn when leaves fall), making your outdoor living space significantly more effortless to look after.
Environment friendly - Composite Decking Advantages
Composite decking is manufactured using a combination of recycled wood, Polyethylene and other essential additives (i.e.colour, bonding agent, etc.). Letting the trees grow and recycling the plastic is a very eco-friendly manner that prevents synthetic waste from being disposed to landfill sites. By investing in composite decking, you can rest assured that you will conserve natural resources and minimise the environmental impact of your project.
Cost-efficient - Composite Decking Advantages
Composite decking costs depend on different manufacturers, as well as the material, shape and complexity. It is more expensive than a softwood deck but works out cheaper over the long run. By choosing traditional timber decking materials, you usually end up paying more much more in maintenance fees, stain, repairs and still have to replace the deck in about ten years. The toughness of composite decking boards means annual upkeep costs are low to non-existing, effectively saving pennies every year. Yes, the initial investment is higher than softwood, but the longevity and other advantages mentioned above provide an improved return on investment over its lifespan.