Composite decking is an alternative type of decking material that is made out of a mixture of wood products and recycled plastic material, creating a synthetic material that has the appearance of wooden decking but carries the resistances and durability of plastic. This unique material constitution of composite decking means that it carries a distinctive set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding a few the biggest pros and cons of composite decking can help you decide if it is the right fit for your yard.
Advantages of Composite Decking
Durability: One of the key advantages associated with choosing composite decking over regular wood is the fact that composite decking is much more weather resistant and durable than wood is. It will not warp or rot with water exposure, is not susceptible to pest infestations and the structural damage that they can bring, and will not require constant painting and sealing to stay in good condition. This translates into a longer lifespan for your deck, less maintenance that you have to complete, and savings on repairs and replacement as a direct result.
Aesthetic Appeal: Another thing to keep in mind about composite decking is that it comes in a range of different colors and patterns that natural wood simply cannot compare to – allowing you to choose to make your deck mimic the appearance of natural wood or take on an entirely new look that matches the exterior of your home. Further, composite decking is colored all the way through, which means that minor chips and scratches in the surface of your decking may not even be visible unless you inspect the individual board up close.
Disadvantages of Composite Decking
Cost: One of the largest disadvantages associated with choosing composite decking over regular pressure-treated wood is that composite decking is more expensive, with the exact difference in price depending on the grade and quality of composite decking and wood that you are comparing. However, for homeowners on a budget, composite decking can represent an added expense that may simply be untenable.
No Changes: One of the largest advantages of choosing natural wood for your deck is that you can alter the appearance of your deck any time that you wish by sanding down the original stain and applying a new coat. This gives you much more flexibility over time with the appearance of your deck. Composite decking, on the other hand, cannot be painted, stained, or otherwise altered. If you want to change the coloring of your deck at any point in the future, you'll have to replace the deck entirely.
For more information, contact your local deck builders today.
Share9 November 2018
After we realized that we wanted to build our dream home, we didn't waste any time looking for a team of general contractors. We wanted to find experts that really understood what they were doing and who could see our vision, so we talked with dozens of contractors. It was an exhausting search, but by the time we found the right team, we knew that we were in good hands. Within a few short months, our project was underway, and we felt great about the progress. This blog is all about finding great contractors who can help with everything from design decisions to ground preparation.
