Everybody loves a deck. There is something very inviting about a back yard deck that just makes you want to kick back and relax. In Australasia, composite decking materials are starting to make inroads into the market, but the advantages of this type of decking may not be fully realised. Here, the advantages of composite decking are explained in detail.
1. Low Maintenance.
Little to no maintenance is the biggest advantage of Composite Decking (otherwise known as WPC). Unlike natural timber, composite decking does not rot, fade, discolour, twist, warp, attract termites or mould. Natural timber requires regular oiling or staining (at least once per year) at a significant cost in both time and materials. Composite decking eliminates these costs. Reclaim your weekends!
2. It is good for the environment.
Most WPC boards are made from recycled materials, up to 90% of the total composition. These materials are typically reclaimed hardwoods and recycled plastics, reducing the amount of plastic heading for landfill. Some suppliers also have FSC accreditation, which ensures the responsible use of timber in manufacture. It is worth noting that you should avoid decking which uses rice pulp instead of reclaimed hardwood, as this material may not be recycled and it prone to moisture absorption, leading to warping and premature decay.
3. It is supplied in standard sizes.
Composite Decking is supplied in standard widths and lengths, helping you ensure you are getting full value for money. It also means you will not have to sort through your timber delivery looking for the appropriate size and grade of board. This can greatly reduce the waste on your project. Longer lengths also means fewer joins, reducing the risk of expansion.
4. Installation can actually be cheaper.
As the Composite Decking boards are standardised and normally much larger then natural timber boards, installation cost may actually be reduced. This is because larger boards means larger areas can be decked more quickly, potentially saving labour costs. Decking supplied with below surface or 'hidden' fixings also require fewer screws than natural timber, which needs a minimum of 4 screws for each and every board, regardless of length.
Heavy duty WPC allows for larger spans on the sub-frame, again reducing the material and labour costs.
5. Can be used in marine areas
Thanks to its non-corrosive properties, Composite Decking is ideal for marinas, jetties, pontoons and around spas and swimming pools. It will not rot from exposure to water, nor will it attract mould. Most composites are also non-slip - highly practical in wet areas.
6. Simple to install
Composite Decking is typically installed on a sub frame in the same manner as natural timber and can therefore be used to replace rotted timber without replacing the frame as well. Below surface fixings make laying the deck boards very fast and easy, meaning you can DIY and save on paying a tradesman!
7. Uses hidden fixings for a sleek, safe look.
Below surface, or 'hidden' fixings give composite decking its sleek, clean appearance. These fixings not only look great, but are very easy to install and provide barefoot safety by keeping sharp screws and nails securely in place below the surface.
8. It looks great!
Early composite decking looked and felt more like plastic than wood, but new designs have come full circle - your friends may not be able to tell the difference! WPC is now available in a huge range of colours, profiles and finishes, from ultra modern to ultra realistic, the choice is yours.
Increase the value of your home and avoid the maintenance, by installing a quality composite deck this weekend.
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