If you are looking into adding a deck to your home, or are considering a replacement of an existing deck, you have probably heard about composite decking materials and are wondering what it is all about.

The Many Benefits of Composite Decking

Composite decking is a wood alternative.  Composite deck boards are made from high-performance, recycled materials.  They are made with a core and a cap.  This technology makes the decking resistant to moisture, weathering and fading.  Combining the polymer and capping has shown to maintain structural integrity of the boards while the colors remain vibrant.  Another major advantage is that the caps will prevent mold or mildew from infiltrating the core.

The Many Benefits of Composite Decking Another major advantage is the low maintenance feature.  Traditional wood decks need to be re-stained and sometimes resealed about every three years.  After about 10 to 15 years the deck will need a complete replacement.  Composite decking never needs to sanded, sealed, or stained.  The color remains intact.  With a composite, you only need an occasional light washing.

Some people are shying away from composite decking because of its initial cost.  However, when you consider that this surface will last far longer than traditional wood and has almost zero maintenance, it will pay for itself in only a few years.  The long term costs of power-washing, sanding, staining and eventually replacing a wood deck are far more significant.

It seems every day we are being encouraged to convert to sustainable resources.  Composite decking is one of the best ecological choices on the market.  Made from up to 80% recycled material and using 100% recycled wood and plastic in the core, this is the only responsible choice.  No trees are cut.  Waste is diverted from landfills.  Manufacturers of composite decking are reusing internal scrap.  With appropriate filtration systems, hundreds of gallons of water is recycled during the manufacturing process.

Manufacturers are so sure of their product that they are offering significant warranties.  This includes a commitment to limited fading and lifetime warranties on the decking product itself.

More and more homeowners are recognizing the benefits of using composite decking materials.  It is a combination of three factors:

  • Durability – Because of their resistance to water damage and won’t warp, crack or split, coupled with low maintenance, they are chosen for high traffic areas or for busy families who don’t want to spend time repairing and upgrading their deck.
  • Appearance – Although not all people care for the appearance of a composite board, the fact that the color will not fade over time and there will be no concerns about splintering or damage, its overall look will not change over time.
  • Cost – Considering the one-time cost of the composite board versus the maintenance costs and repair and replacement expenses over the years, this is the more cost effective choice.

If this is a product you would like to explore further, don’t hesitate to contact us.  We are happy to answer any of your questions and provide you with an estimate or comparison pricing with other decking options.