Composite decking has become popular among homeowners in Sydney over the past few years. With its low maintenance, durability, and eco-friendliness, it’s no wonder that composite decking has become a go-to option for outdoor spaces. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what composite decking is, its benefits, why it’s an excellent choice for your home, and answer the question many people ask, “Is composite decking better than timber?”
What is composite decking?
Composite decking is an outdoor decking material made from wood fibres, plastic, and other additives such as pigments and stabilisers. The boards usually have two parts: a core and a cap. The core consists of two main ingredients, namely wood and plastic. A bonded polymer cap is added to each board to protect the core. The result is a durable, low-maintenance decking material that looks like wood but is more resistant to weather, stains, and scratches. Compared to traditional wood decking, composite decking is generally more expensive but requires less maintenance and lasts longer. Composite decking is available in various colours and styles and is often used in outdoor spaces such as patios, decks, and balconies.
What are the benefits of composite decking?
Here are a few of the main benefits that it can offer:
Low maintenance:
One of the most significant advantages of composite decking is that it requires minimal maintenance. Compared to traditional timber decking, composite decking doesn’t need to be regularly sanded, stained, or sealed. It is also easy to clean and requires no special cleaning products.
Here are some suggestions for maintaining composite decking:
-Regular cleaning: To prevent dirt and debris from building up on your composite decking, you should clean it regularly. Use a broom or leaf blower to remove loose debris, and then use a hose or pressure washer to wash away any remaining dirt or grime. You can also use a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush to remove stains.
-Avoid harsh chemicals: While composite decking is generally more resistant to stains than wood decking, it is still susceptible to discolouration from certain chemicals. Avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, or acid-based cleaners on your composite decking, as these can cause discolouration and damage.
-Prevent scratches: Although composite decking is more durable than wood, it can still be scratched by heavy furniture, pets, or sharp objects. Use furniture pads or covers under heavy furniture to prevent scratches and avoid dragging sharp objects across the surface.
-Inspect for damage: Regularly inspect your composite decking for any signs of damage, such as cracks or warping. If you notice any damage, repair or replace the affected boards immediately to prevent further damage.
Overall, composite decking requires less maintenance than traditional wood decking, but it still needs some care to keep it looking its best. By following these tips, you can keep your composite decking looking great for years.
Durability:
Composite decking is highly resistant to weathering, fading, and moisture. It is less likely to crack, splinter, or warp over time. This makes it an excellent choice for areas with high foot traffic or exposure to harsh weather conditions, making it a safer and more comfortable surface to walk on.
The durability of composite decking can vary depending on the quality of the material, so make sure that you choose a reputable brand that has been manufacturing for a long time.
Overall, composite decking is a durable and long-lasting option for outdoor spaces, especially compared to traditional wood decking. While it may be more expensive upfront,it’ss longevity and low maintenance requirements can make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Stain resistance:
Composite decking is known for its stain resistance. Unlike traditional wood decking, composite decking is made from a combination of wood fibres and plastic, which makes it resistant to stains from spills, food, and other materials. The plastic component of composite decking prevents moisture from penetrating the decking boards, which means that stains cannot easily penetrate the surface.
However, it is still possible for composite decking to become stained if spills or debris are left on the surface for extended periods. To maintain the stain resistance of composite decking, clean up spills and debris as soon as possible and regularly sweep or hose off the decking to remove any dirt or debris that may accumulate.
Additionally, it is essential to note that some composite decking brands may have different levels of stain resistance depending on their manufacturing process and the materials’ quality. Homeowners should research other brands and compare their stain-resistance properties before purchasing.
Eco-friendliness:Composite decking can be considered eco-friendly in some ways, but it also has some environmental drawbacks.
Composite decking is made from recycled materials, which means it has a lower carbon footprint than traditional timber decking. Additionally, many manufacturers use sustainable practices in their production process, making it a more environmentally friendly option. Here are some of the pros and cons of composite decking in terms of eco-friendliness:
Pros:
Made from recycled materials: Many composite decking materials are made from recycled plastic and wood fibres, which can help reduce waste and promote sustainability.
Longer lifespan: Composite decking has a longer lifespan than traditional wood decking, which means that it can be replaced less often. This can reduce the amount of wood that needs to be harvested for decking purposes.
Low maintenance: Composite decking requires very little maintenance compared to wood decking, so it does not need to be treated with harmful chemicals or cleaned with harsh detergents.
Cons:
Production process: The production process of composite decking requires a significant amount of energy, and the emissions from the manufacturing process can contribute to air and water pollution.
Non-biodegradable: Composite decking is made from materials that are not biodegradable, which means that it will not break down in a landfill or composting facility. This can create waste management challenges; however, some manufacturers are implementing more sustainable production practices and using renewable energy sources to reduce their environmental impac.t
While composite decking has some eco-friendly features, it is essential to consider the potential environmental impacts of its production and disposal. Homeowners concerned about eco-friendliness may consider alternative decking materials such as bamboo or sustainably harvested wood.
Overall, composite decking can be considered eco-friendly in some ways, but it’s important to consider the potential environmental impacts of its production, use, and disposal. Homeowners concerned about eco-friendliness may want to research the brand of composite decking they are considering and look for certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI).
Design options:
Composite decking comes in various colours, textures, and patterns, making it easy to customise to your design preferences. You can choose from multiple finishes to achieve your desired look for your outdoor space.
Here are some of the design options that are available with composite decking:
Colour: Composite decking is available in various colours, ranging from natural wood tones to bold, modern hues., like black and grey. This allows homeowners to choose a colour that complements their home’s exterior and enhances their outdoor space.
Texture: Composite decking is available in a range of surfaces, from smooth to embossed, that simulate the look and feel of natural wood. Some manufacturers even offer composite decking with a brushed or distressed texture to create a more rustic or weathered look. Composite deck boards are also available in smooth, non-textured options for a more modern look.
Size and shape: Composite decking comes in various widths and lengths, including standard deck boards, wide boards, and multi-width boards. Some manufacturers also offer custom sizes and shapes, allowing homeowners to create unique deck designs.
Board patterns: Composite decking can be installed in a variety of patterns, including diagonal, herringbone, and picture frame patterns. These patterns can add visual interest and create a unique look for the deck.
Accessories: Composite decking can be paired with various accessories, including railings, lighting, and pergolas, to create an entire outdoor living space. Many manufacturers offer coordinating accessories that are designed to complement their decking products.
Installation options: Composite decking can be installed using various installation methods, including traditional surface fastening, hidden fastening systems, and clip systems. This allows homeowners to choose an installation method that fits their design preferences and budget.
Overall, composite decking offers a range of design options that can help homeowners create a personalised and stylish outdoor living space. Homeowners can create a space that meets their functional and aesthetic needs by choosing the right colour, texture, size, and accessories.
So should you opt for composite decking?
When you’re busy with home repairs and renovations, you should never stare blankly at the initial upfront cost. You must also remember toconsiderd factors like durability, maintenance, and environmental impact.
Composite decking is an excellent choice for homeowners in Australia. With its low maintenance, durability, eco-friendliness, and design options, it’s no wonder it has become popular for outdoor spaces. Whether you’re building a new deck or renovating an existing one, composite decking is worth considering. If you would like to know more, call one of our team on 0413 185 735 or complete our enquiry form for a fast, free quote today.
