While you’re planning your deck, one of the things you’ll have to pay attention to is the material it will be made of. While wood is one of the first things we think of, it’s not the only material available. If the maintenance requirements of traditional wood decking give you a headache, consider using a composite instead. You’ll get a look that’s similar to that of wood, but no maintenance is required.
Composite decking is made up of recycled wood by products and plastics. That means that it’s able to make use of materials that would otherwise be thrown away to produce an excellent material for building your deck. Wood composites often contain pulp and shavings that are left over from the milling process, and plastics like polyethylene, recovered from consumer recycling. Don’t think that the use of recycled materials means this decking won’t hold up, however. Composite decking is just as sturdy and attractive as real wood, with some extra advantages.
This type of decking is resistant to rot, fungus, and insects. It doesn’t fade, and requires no regular refinishing, paint, or other maintenance. However, regular woodworking tools work just fine. That means it’s easy to use composite decking in a plan that calls for wood. When you use this great material, you’ll end up with an attractive deck that lasts almost forever.
Of course, each brand of composite decking is a little different. Each has its strengths and weaknesses. Some offer more colors and finishes, or are smoother to walk on barefoot. Others are more durable against weathering. The best way to choose the right brand for you is to do some research and think about what factors are most important to you.
One problem that many decks have is heating up in the summer. To prevent this, composite materials often contain reflective materials to make them stay cool, even in direct sunlight. The majority of products are also splinter free and resist becoming slippery. This makes them a popular choice for pool decks and boat docks. Decking that’s going to be exposed to heavy weathering may contain additives that keep it from contracting and expanding as much in extreme temperatures. Other products include a stain resistant finish that prevents scratches and discoloration.
If made well, a composite deck will actually last longer and add more value to your home than one made from wood. That’s because your composite deck needs almost no upkeep, and will look the same for many years. While wood is durable and attractive, it’ll probably deteriorate faster and require more time and money to keep it looking good. If you’re thinking about building a deck, take a look at composite material options.
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