Benefits of Composite Decking Materials Everyone Should Know

A deck is a great addition to any home. It provides extra living space and can be used for many different purposes. Decking materials come in many different options, but composite decking is quickly becoming the most popular choice. There are many reasons why homeowners are choosing composite decking over other materials, such as wood. Composite decking is made from recycled materials, so it is environmentally friendly. It is also durable and cost less to maintain than traditional wood decks, making it a wise investment for homeowners. When you consider all the benefits of composite decking, it becomes clear why it is quickly becoming the top choice for homeowners in East Tennessee and Knoxville.

What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking materials are made from both real wood and plastic. It's typically processed to look like the real thing, but it might also include some added ingredients for durability--like color pigments or preservatives - which result in an imitation of nature’s beauty without all those pesky limitations! Unlike natural hardwoods such as oak trees whose grain pattern changes with every inch they grow – composites have more consistent patterns thanks mostly because their components were mixed together before being heated up so everything would flow together better and stay colored in the weather. The end product has all these great benefits: lighter weight than traditional lumber, no splinters when you cut into them, and resistant to decay.

Types of Composite Decking

Composite decking is a popular choice for homeowners who are looking for a minimal maintenance alternative to traditional wood decking. There are various types of composites, but they can broadly be categorized into two types: solid composite decking and hollow composite decking. Below is a breakdown of the two types:

Solid Composite Decking

Solid composite decking boards are made of solid material with no voids in the center, making them more structurally stable than their hollow counterparts. They also tend to be heavier and more difficult to install. However, solid boards have several advantages. First, they have a higher load-bearing capacity, making them ideal for decks that will support heavy furniture or appliances like grills. Second, they are less susceptible to weather damage and corrosion. Finally, solid boards typically have a longer lifespan than hollow boards. For these reasons, solid composite decking may be the best option for your decking project.

Hollow Composite Decking

There are many types of composite decking available on the market, but hollow boards are some of the best. The most obvious advantage of the hollow boards is that they weigh less due to their lightweight honeycombed center.

Despite being hollow, these boards are still incredibly strong. However, due to their hollow center, they can hold moisture and water internally which can be difficult to remove. Over time, this can begin to damage the boards if the water freezes and swells. However, using purposely designed end caps can prevent this issue and protect the boards from water ingress.

A final advantage of hollow composite deck boards is that they respond less to the elements, whereas solid boards can expand and contract in extreme heat and cold. This makes them more durable in fluctuating weather conditions and means they are less likely to suffer from long-term damage. For all these reasons, hollow composite decking boards are some of the best on the market.

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Composite Deck

There is a growing popularity in composite decking material even though the price is higher. Issues of cost, durability, and maintenance resurface every time the pros and cons of wood vs composite decking are discussed.

There are some important parameters you need to look at when evaluating wood vs composite wood decking:

• Aesthetics
• Moisture resistance
• Maintenance
• Splinter prevention
• Cost-effectiveness
• Temperature
• Easy installation

Here are some of the composite decking vs timber decking pros and cons to look at before making a decision.

What are the Advantages of Composite Decking?

• Decreased maintenance costs when compared to wood
• Comes in a variety of colors, shapes, and designs
• Use recycled materials, making them eco-friendly.

Disadvantages of Composite Decking

• Expensive when compared to wood decking
• May not be as aesthetically pleasing as traditional wood decking.
• Can warp and expand in extreme weather conditions.
• Can be difficult to install.

Why Should You Use Composite Wood Decking?

Installation of the deck comes with a lot of advantages. It offers homeowners new spaces outside of the home that gives the home more life and value. They are made using innovative technology and high-performance core and cap from recycled materials. The deck material is able to fight moisture, fading, and harsh weather, making it great in outside spaces. Here is a list of some of the other notable benefits of composite decking.

Less maintenance

Composite decking is made to be low-maintenance, which is one of the reasons it’s become so popular in recent years. Unlike traditional wood decking, composite decking doesn’t require staining, sealing, or painting, and it won’t warp, splinter, or rot. This means that you’ll save time and money on maintenance costs over the lifetime of your deck.

Another benefit of composite decking is that it’s resistant to fading and staining. Even if you leave your deck untreated, it will still look good for many years. And if you ever do need to clean your deck, all you need is a hose and some soap.

Composite decking is also resistant to warping, pest, insects, weathering, and rotting - making them last longer without the need for repair or maintenance. Unlike traditional wood decks that are largely affected by these elements, composite decks maintain their original condition for much longer - giving you more value for your money in the long run.

For all these reasons, it’s no wonder that composite decking has become so popular in recent years. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option for your next decking project, composite decking is definitely worth considering.

More Aesthetically Pleasing

Composite decking is available in a variety of colors, shapes, and designs, which means you can find the perfect one to match your home. Many composite decking brands also offer a wide range of textures and finishes, so you can find the perfect one to suit your style.

Another benefit of composite decking is that it’s resistant to fading and staining. Even if you leave your deck untreated, it will still look good for many years. And if you ever do need to clean your deck, all you need is a hose and some soap.

Durability and compatibility with wood decks

The ability of the composite decks to resist different conditions, coupled with low maintenance, is clear proof that it is a quality product. The mixture of plastic and wood adds more strength and density, enabling it to withstand different conditions while maintaining its aesthetics. This means that you won't have to frequently sand, paint, or oil your composite decking. As a result, you'll save time and money in the long run. Not to mention, the quality of the composite decking guarantees durability and that it will survive harsh weather conditions while also offering the desired aesthetics you desire. Ultimately, choosing composite material is a wise investment for any homeowner.

Environmental Friendly

Composite decking is made from recycled material, which makes it environmentally friendly. It doesn’t require any additional chemicals or treatments, and it’s also resistant to fading and staining. This means that you’ll save time and money on maintenance costs over the lifetime of your deck, and you won’t have to worry about harming the environment.

Many composite decking brands are also certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which means they meet the highest environmental and social standards. FSC certification is the gold standard for responsible forest management, so you can be sure that your composite decking is made from sustainable materials that minimize the impact on our nation's forests.

For all these reasons, composite decking is a great choice for homeowners who want a deck that’s environmentally friendly and low-maintenance.

Pest Resistant

Wood is a popular choice for decking because it is easy to work with and relatively affordable. However, wood has its drawbacks. One of the main problems with wood is that it is susceptible to pest infestation. Termites, wood bees, and other insects are attracted to the cellulose in wood, which they use as a food source. This can lead to extensive damage to both the structure of your deck and its top deck boards. Composite materials are a more pest-resistant alternative to natural wood. Unlike wooden decks, composite does not constitute cellulose, making it less appealing to termites and other insects. As a result, composite decking is a better choice if you are looking for a material that is less likely to be damaged by pests.

Conclusion

There are many reasons to choose composite decking for your home. Composite decks last longer, they're easy to maintain, and they come in a variety of colors and styles that can suit any taste. If you live in East Tennessee or Knoxville, TN, and you're ready to upgrade your outdoor living space with a new deck, contact Green Home Installations. We are an experienced contractor that prides ourselves on quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Give us a call today to get started on your new composite deck.