Composite decking has made the construction of decks easier and cheaper. Earlier wood decking was a very common way to make decks, irrespective of the type of wood being used as it was expensive and required high maintenance but now anyone can avail for top-notch composite decking at affordable prices and at low maintenance.
Composite decking is nothing but a combination of various materials which are mixed and processed in such a manner that they give an appearance of a wood. The components are generally wood (sometimes leftovers from the lumber industry, wood fibers, etc.) and plastic, which are all recycled and remade into board-shaped lengths and then used to give the homeowners a top-notch composite decking. Composite decking has gained a lot of importance in recent years as it is a popular alternative for wood decking. However, it does require some initial investment as it is assumed that some of its color might fade away during the initial years, but this initial cost cover is covered by the rest of the lifespan of the deck. According to recent researches, composite decking is considered as the most durable and long-lasting form of decking.
Benefits of Top-Notch Composite Decking:
Durability: A top-notch composite decking is resistant to rot, termites, cracks and splinters. Such kind of decking is strong and can withstand heavy weights and sharp objects. Even spilled water or other liquids do not stain such kind of composite decking. This combination of materials in decking prevents molds and stains and do not allow the color to fade.
Low Maintenance: Generally, normal decking requires proper maintenance because they need to be stained, polished and washed regularly but a top-notch composite decking retain its beauty and do not get damaged in any way for decades; thus, making it an easy-to-maintain and affordable alternative for decking. Composite decking requires cleaning only once or twice a year and that too a simple wash with soap so that it gets cleaned and still appears the same for decades.
Sustainability: A top-notch composite decking provides an appearance and feels of a wood; however, it does not affect the environment. Composite decking is a combination of various materials like wood and plastic and other synthetic materials which are generally left-over’s and all of them are reused and recycled so that none of them cause environmental degradation.
Strong Warranties: Long-lasting warranties on top-notch composite decking not only ensure aesthetics, but also bring peace of mind. Since the composite decking requires little investment, the buyer is also offered a warranty in the product. Hence, warranty on the same guarantees beautiful look of the decking for decades. It ensures proper maintenance at reduced cost and thus, makes the initial cost worthwhile.
There are two alternatives while deciding for a top-notch composite decking: Solid and Hollow. Solid composite decking is a more popular alternative because of its superior strength. Also, its appearance is similar to that of a wood decking. However, it is heavier and expands and contracts more when temperature fluctuates. On the other hand, hollow composite decking is lighter than the solid one.
It offers a man-made appearance and does not react to fluctuating temperatures. However, special care has to be taken while carrying them as they are prone to damage before being installed. Irrespective of the type, it is important to treat them with proper preservatives and chemicals to get a top-notch composite decking for outdoor living. They rot or get damaged faster if they are left untreated. Since the composition of wood in composite decking varies from 40% to 70%, the preservatives and anti-fungal chemicals are added beforehand to prevent any serious problem.