Composite decking is great, and the benefits of going for composite lumber in constructing your deck are numerous. But, like most things, it also comes with its list of cons that can turn you away from them.
Pros
You honestly can’t go wrong with composite decking. And here are some of the advantages or the pros of opting for a composite deck over a wooden one:
Durability
Composite decks were built with extra durability in mind. Unlike their more traditional copies, they are stain-resistant, scratch-resistant, and won’t mould or rot during use.
Because of the fine finish of composite decks, they don’t produce splinters, and this makes them a much safer alternative for children, pets, and the entire family.
Low maintenance
Composite decks aren’t like traditional decks that need regular sanding to remove splinters or staining. With maintenance of composite decks, all you need is soap and water to retrieve the shine of your floors, and that’s it. Composite decks need so little maintenance and attention, and yet they can last for such a long period.
Sustainable
Composite wood gives you all the benefits of a traditional wooden deck without the environmental casualties, i.e., cutting down trees. Usually, the materials used in making composite decks are recycled materials, so they are sustainable for the environment. That means you get the great look of a normal wooden deck while doing your part in environmental protection.
Aesthetic
Composite decking features a high-definition wood pattern that gives it a strong resemblance to the traditional wood deck. Composite decks come with various patterns, and it maintains its colour for a very long period. Apart from the variety of colours you can get your composite deck in, homeowners can also enjoy the wide selection of accessories with a composite deck.
Cons
Composite decking, while seeming like the perfect fit for your deck, also comes with its list of problems:
More expensive
The initial price of getting a traditional wooden deck is a lot cheaper than a composite deck. However, affordability isn’t a decided con. While the initial price of getting a composite deck might seem costlier, the price does add up years later because of the material’s durability.
Surface temperature
Composite decking has had a history of not being able to conduct heat as much as wood decks due to their density. For example, during the hot summer weather, walking on a composite deck can be a serious pain. But with technology innovation, there has been some improvement in this regard. More composite decks don’t absorb as much heat as they once did in the past.
How to maintain a composite decking
One reason composite decks are so widely chosen in recent times is how incredibly low maintenance they are. Compared to wood decks that need routine sanding and staining, composite decks don’t need any of that as their materials are resistant to scratches and mould growth. In order to clean and maintain your composite deck, all your is soap and water to clean the area, and you’ve restored the natural shine of your deck.
How to choose the perfect composite deck
Composite decks come in various varieties; you must figure out which particular one works best for you from all the numerous choices available. To do this, it will be beneficial if you find out what wood decking you like best and compare it to your favourite composite lumber.
This cuts down on your decision-making process instantly.