Should You Have Composite Decking On Your Deck? The Good And The Bad
Posted on: 9 September 2021
Composite decking has become very popular in today's market, but there is a lot of misleading information that goes along with it. There are many myths about composite decking that can make choosing your materials difficult. Here are some of the options you might want to consider for the materials on your deck:
More About Composite Lumber
You might want more information about composite lumber before you plan on using it. These are special composites that are made out of recycled plastics, rubber, and waste materials from the timber industry. The composites are used for various materials, such as decking, siding, and other exterior materials that need to be resistant to damage and decay.
Advantages of Using Composite Decking
There are also advantages to using composite decking for your project. The main advantage of these materials is that they are more durable than traditional pressure-treated pine and other natural wood products. The advantages of composite lumber materials are also that they are flexible and easy to install. This can give you more flexibility in the design of your deck.
Disadvantages of Using Composite Lumber
You might also want to consider some of the disadvantages of using composite lumber. The disadvantages of using composites include their structural strength and the issues with deterioration over time. You can also have problems with composites that have been reduced with improvements to the technology, such as UV-resistant finishes and sturdy rigid designs. These improvements to the materials also include more attractive finishes that can resemble exotic hardwoods and cost less than the natural alternatives.
Tips to Help with Your Composite Decking Project
The options for a composite decking project include additional features and finishes. There are also extra things that can be done to reinforce your newly built deck. In addition to adding structural bracing, you will also want to occasionally treat the deck with a special cleaner and protective coating that prevents deterioration due to exposure to direct sunlight and the rain. It is also a good idea to screw down the decking boards. If the boards use biscuit installation systems, screw down the first and last rows to lock them in place.
Decking made with composite lumber can stand up to humid conditions better than other materials. Composite decking will not only live longer than wood, but it will also stay consistent in appearance. Contact a local supplier to get the materials you need for your project, like Timbertech composite decking.
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