9 Benefits Of Composite Decking

Composite Wood For Decks

Of course, it has its pros and cons to consider before you commit. At Ridgeline Decks our goal is to create beautiful decks that will stand up to the harshest weather conditions and provide our customers with years of enjoyment. With that in mind, we believe that a well-constructed deck starts with using the highest quality materials. They look like composites, but these boards are actually 99 percent virgin PVC plastic, very different stuff from the polyethylene-wood mix found in most composites. Everything you need to finish a deck—fascia boards, railings, balusters, treads, and posts—is made in matching colors using the same composite material. Run-of-the-mill boards start at $4 per square foot, while the premium products that closely resemble tropical wood run up to $7.20 per square foot.

For milder issues, you can wash it with a basic brush and detergent. Hollow and solid composite boards have their own pros and cons. Hollow boards don’t expand and contract as often as solid boards do, but when they do, it’s less even and smooth. Solid boards, on the other hand, are sturdier and they don’t hold water inside like hollow boards sometimes do. Real wood is also more prone to damage than composite wood.

The first products were made from old shipping pallets and recycled milk cartons, advertised as being something that was 100% resistant to rot. Studies published in the Forest Products Journal in showed that this was not the case. Your boards must receive treatment with a preservative to maximize their potential to fight the natural aging process.

Wood Decking

So when your looking at the pros and cons of composite decking, take the time to make the decision is the right for you. The fact is, there are many products on the market depending on your location. As for materials, most composite products are manufactured from wood by-products, such as sawdust, wood chips or recycled plastics. Often, combining synthetic and organic materials seems to capture the best of both worlds , and creates a durable product that looks and feels similar to wood decking. When the first composite decking materials were introduced in the 1990s, it was eyed as being the next evolution of the deck-building industry.

Products & Services

If you’re a homeowner with a busy schedule, it’ll give you peace to not toil over your deck. One brand, three ways to Go Against the Grain.® Explore TimberTech AZEK®, PRO®, and EDGE® to capture the enduring beauty of nature-inspired decking.

Unlike real wood, you can’t simply change the color by picking from a large selection of stains. For some homeowners with a clear vision of how they want their deck to look, this could be a deal-breaker. For most homeowners, the key benefit of composite wood is its lack of maintenance.

Putting Together An Outdoor Living Look

Comparing Composite Vs Wood Decking

TOH explains everything you need to know about this wood alternative, including how to choose the best boards, compare costs, as well as install and clean them. Whether you need your deck or porch designed, built, or remodeled, our team at Douglas Residential Renovations can help get the job done for you. Also, you can keep peace of mind as our professional team is licensed and insured.

• Because the components are virtually maintenance-free, gallons of stain and/or sealant are saved.
• Composite decking materials are composed primarily of hard plastic, and unlike wood, this material will not splinter or crack.
• The eco-benefits of composite extend beyond the recycled materials used in the decking’s manufacture.
• The experts at Trex share some of the reasons why you should consider using composite materials for your next outdoor living project.
• If you walk on a wood deck barefoot, you risk a splinter—but that is not the case when walking on a composite deck.
• More durable than wood, composite decking stays out of the landfill longer.

However, the payoff you get over time in decreased maintenance costs and increased leisure time provides compelling value. According to Popular Mechanics, basic pressure-treated lumber goes for about 80 cents per linear foot, while redwood or cedar runs up to three times that amount.

Still not as long as composite, but an admirable amount of time, if properly treated. Composite decking has risen to meet the high standards of professionals and homeowners. Here are some of the ways its done that, and why a composite deck may be for you. Composite decking is easier to clean than standard wood decking, and routine maintenance requires simple soap and water. Say goodbye to power washers, sanders, and other equipment typically enlisted to get your deck looking new. There's also no need for periodic treatments of finish, paint, or other chemicals typically used to protect all-wood decks.

This type of decking is also very safe because it’s splinter-free, making it ideal for families and pets. Fading seems to be another complaint with composite deck owners. My parents have talked for years about replacing their wood deck with a composite deck. Many of you out there might be in the same spot and wonder if this type of deck will work for you, so let’s take a closer look at them. Wood grains range from cathedral and straight patterns to dual-embossed wood grains to hand-scraped and infinitely variable finishes. The estimated average cost of capped polymer deck boards and Ipe hardwood decking costs are based on the national average for a 16’ x 20’ deck.

Trex-Trex offers eco-friendly alternatives to wood decking. Their deep, wood grain selections along with their plethora of color options make deck design easy. If you love the traditional aesthetics of wood but want a durable deck, composite offers wood grain options. They come in various colors that will seamlessly blend with your home’s architecture. Whether you want earth-toned color options or something more tropical, you’ll find a color palette that you’re going to love. Fisher Lumber also collaborates with their partners to customize railings.

Pros And Cons Of Composite Decking Revealed

Durable – Composite decking looks like wood, but they differ in several ways. This material is extremely durable, it’s perfect for use even for families with little kids or pets.