Composite decking vs. wood has been a common topic of interest to homeowners, builders, and designers over the years. Both wood and composite have their advantages as commonly used outdoor decorative materials. But composite decking as a synthetic material clearly has even more to offer.
We will delve into all the main reasons why composite decking is superior to wood in this article. Once we understand its advantages and disadvantages, we will understand why composite decking boards have changed the outdoor decorating industry and have become the best decking material for modern outdoor spaces.
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Contents
Long service life
When it comes to sturdiness and longevity, composite decking is better than wood. Wood can rot, decay, and be damaged by insects. Unlike composite decking boards, it does not have these problems.
Composite decking is made from wood fibers and recyclable plastic. It has a strong, stable surface that can withstand the elements year after year. Since it won’t fade, warp, or splinter, the decking surface will stay clean and safe for years. Therefore, composite decking is a great long-term investment.
Low maintenance
One of the key reasons people choose composite decking material is that it doesn’t require much maintenance. While wood needs to be stained, sealed, and painted regularly, composite decking boards only need regular cleaning to maintain their beautiful appearance.
Composite material possesses the properties of plastic, so it is less likely to harbor spots, mold, and mildew. In addition, composite decking does not need to be sanded or resealed, which saves people time, energy, and the cost of ongoing maintenance.
Environmentally friendly
Using composite decking is an environmentally friendly choice that contributes to sustainability and good resource management. Composite materials contain wood fibers and recyclable plastics, so less new wood is used. This helps to preserve trees and reduce the amount of deforestation. And the use of recyclable plastics protects our living environment.
Beautiful appearance
Wooden decks bring a natural look to people, and composite deck boards can do the same. Nowadays, composite deck boards have a natural-looking wood grain, which can give you the same appearance as wood decks.
Unlike wood decks, composite decking manufacturers offer people a wide range of different colors and finishes. So people can find a deck that perfectly suits their outdoor style.
Walk barefoot
When wooden decks are used for a long time, the surface of the deck will crack and produce wood splinters. Composite decking boards, on the other hand, have a smooth surface without wood splinters and will not crack.
Therefore, people can safely walk and play on them barefoot. Children and pets will hardly be hurt by wood splinters, so families with children and pets can enjoy outdoor life without worry.
No pests
Many pests, such as termites and other wood-boring insects, burrow into wooden decks. On the other hand, pests don’t like composite decking materials, which greatly reduces the risk of pests.
Those who own composite decks can be sure that these decks will remain pest-free and structurally stable for a long time.
Won’t warp
Wood decks can warp, dent, and twist when moisture and temperature changes occur. If this happens, the surface of the deck becomes uneven and dangerous.
Composite decking’s waterproofing ensures that it won’t warp, dent or twist. The deck surface will remain flat and stable even in inclement weather.
UV resistant
UV rays can cause wood decking to fade and discolor. To prevent the surface from fading and discoloring, composite decking manufacturers incorporate UV inhibitors and protective coatings when making composite decking.
As a result, one can use composite decking boards without worrying about it fading when exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
Long-term cost
Although composite decking may cost more to purchase than wood, it can save you money in the long run. You can save a lot of time, money, and effort with composite deck boards because it doesn’t require a lot of maintenance and can last for a long time.
Over time, wood decks need to be stained, sealed, and repaired on a regular basis. After you have used it for many years, the total cost of wood decking will be higher than the cost of composite decking.
Weather resistance
The composite decking material is highly weather resistant, so one can use it in all kinds of weather with confidence. Composite decking boards will not warp, crack, or rot when exposed to extreme heat, freezing weather, heavy rain, or high humidity.
Wood, on the other hand, is subject to weather damage, which can mean costly repairs or having to replace your deck prematurely.
Impact resistant
Composite decking’s hard exterior makes it very resistant to impacts or scratches. This makes it ideal for high-traffic areas. Wood, on the other hand, is more prone to dents and scratches and requires frequent sanding and refinishing to maintain its appearance.
Design versatility
Composite decking offers designers and homeowners more options when it comes to customizing outdoor areas. It is easy to mold and can be shaped into different sizes. Which makes it useful in creating decks with unique designs and curved edges that may be difficult to do with wood.
Composite deck boards that can be customized make outdoor projects more fun and creative, allowing people to produce deck boards to their design needs.
Easy to install
Composite decking boards are easier to follow than wood because they are more uniform and lighter. Composite wood decking is easy to place because they are all the same size and shape, so you don’t have to sort and cut them.
Many times, composite materials are longer, which means that the decking spans more and has fewer seams. The benefit of installing composite decking is that it saves time and labor costs. This makes it a great option for do-it-yourselfers and professionals alike.
Hidden fasteners
Composite decking brings a new way to fasten decks and make them look better. Hidden clips and fasteners secure the composite decking boards while keeping the deck looking smooth and neat.
This hidden fastening method not only makes the deck look better but also makes it more comfortable to walk on and enjoy barefoot.
Conclusion
By utilizing the benefits of composite decking, residents can make their outdoor space beautiful, functional, and good for the environment. Composite decking is flexible, won’t break down due to weather or fire, and has a better fixing system that allows you to make unique deck designs. Choosing composite decking material over timber is in line with green and sustainable practices, helping to make the future greener and more environmentally friendly.
There are things that wood can’t do that composite decking materials can do better. composite decking is stronger and requires less maintenance than wood decking. And as composite decking material continues to change and improve, it will continue to be a leader in the outdoor living industry.
