It’s all very exciting - finalizing the blueprint for a new fire-rateddeck or decking. If you ask a local supplier about their opinion, you’ll hear a familiar suggestion. That is, pressure-treated lumber, also known as PT lumber. It’s sturdy, affordable, and eye-catching and it can last you fifteen years or so. But, before you sign upfor a few planks, you must know they can warp, crack and split and require diligent maintenance. What else can you use then?
Introducing composite decking
Let’s say you don’t have the budget for an expansive deck made from hardwoods, and aluminum decking is not only beyond your means, but won’t sit well with the architecture. That’s okay because you can enjoy the width and breadth of a new decking for half the price of hardwoods. Composite decking is now on center stage because of its many merits. Let’s take a closer look at their desirable characteristics.
Essential ingredients of a synthetic building material
The right mixture of wooden fibers and recycled plastics, stained with just the right color to appear more natural than artificial. That is what you get when you buy composites. Also known as synthetic decking, it is essentially made from wood-polymer composite. It’s now usurping the number one spot from standard lumber as preferred decking material. Also known as wood alternatives, synthetic decking or composite, wood-polymer composite is fast becoming the decking material of choice for many homes or residences during the past several years. It is an environmentally friendly alternative to lumber that uses wood and plastic fiber.
A question of longevity
Composite decking is not prone to splitting or cracking. It won’t warp and is not susceptible to mold and mildew. Synthetic decking will not respond much to changing weather conditions. It will deflect the damaging effects of insects and rot. While it’s durability cannot be questioned, it’s not difficult to transport and install. Composites are lightweight yet durable. If you are keen on keeping up appearances, choose composites that are made to look like rich and natural hardwoods. Perhaps your guests won’t be able to tell the difference until you point it out yourself.
The cons of composites
Installation costs would be higher than when assembling a surface made with PT lumber. Perhaps, you can arrange for a reasonable installation fee if you’re choosing a local crew to complete the job. A composite deck could be slippery in certain weather conditions. Make sure the coating you use will take care of this. Choose high-quality synthetic decking material, or you might get something that bends and sags, and tends to show signs of wear sooner than expected.
Long life with low maintenance
For some homeowners, what matters the most is having a lovely deck that the family can enjoy for many years without having to bother much about maintenance. Wood has unique features that make any deck stand out, but they require attention and care. Composites are available locally, durable, and nearly maintenance-free. A material that possesses the combination of features that makes for a sturdy and beautiful deck. Isn’t that what you are looking for?
