Why Composite Decking Is Better Now Than Ever Beforebuilddirect Blog

Composite Wood For Decks

In addition to saving trees, the manufacturing process keeps other waste products out of landfills. The pros and cons of composite decking show that this material is useful in a variety of different situations. You can simulate the look and feel of natural wood while preserving the environment and reducing your maintenance needs. When you choose composite decking for your home, then you’re using a product that is primarily made of recycled products. That means you don’t need to cut down more trees just so that you can build a deck. The recycled plastic in the product takes waste away from the ocean or having it enter our food supply.

Have already recommended them to friends who were similarly happy with the service. Everyone was very professional, willing to listen and answer all of my questions. My deck faces south and west so chances of it getting really hot are 100%. I have to say my favorite part of my parents’ house is the deck. We’d often sit out there from early afternoon until late into the evening watching the sun go down over the lake. LazingBee / Getty ImagesLess durable woods, like Southern pine and Western fir, are treated with preservatives. This makes them more resistant to the elements, rot, and insects.

If you’re still not sure, talk to a decking professional who can guide you toward the best fit for your home. After all, the total project will add up to thousands of dollars. If you choose the right option, it could cost you far more in the long run if you need to replace or repair your deck.

Wood Decking

If you'd rather spend your time doing something else, composites are your choice. Has Exceptional Warranty Coverage — Trex is warranted not to rot, warp, crack or be damaged by termites. All Trex decking and railing products are covered by a 25-year limited residential warranty, plus an additional 25-year limited residential fade and stain warranty. Requires Minimal Maintenance — The reason many homeowners put up with materials that obviously look artificial is that they require minimal maintenance.

Products & Services

Composite decks come in a plank form, similar to traditional treated wood planks. If you don’t want to completely replace your existing wood deck, you can use these tiles to cover the entire area. Home Depot boasts that they snap together and only take a few minutes to install. Wood is the original and traditional material used for decks. Hardwoods—all woods, really—should be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. This means your synthetic deck can be environmentally friendly. Consumers must decide if the look and feel of natural wood is worth the work that goes into periodic staining, painting and replacing sections that have begun to decay.

It’s only understandable to want to make it attractive and functional. It won’t warp, bulge, or split after exposure to the elements either. That means your deck will look just as good five years from now as it does today when you or your preferred contractor install the product correctly. Oftentimes the site of family barbecues, outdoor gatherings, and casual relaxation, an expertly crafted deck can provide enjoyment for decades. We've got a variety of roofing materials for you to choose from, no matter what your style or functionality goals might be. No matter the materials or style you're looking for in your new staircase, we've got a wide range of options for every taste and budget. Our quality flooring materials will provide your space with the durability and style you're looking for.

Putting Together An Outdoor Living Look

Unlike real wood, you won’t need to strip, sand, seal, or stain it. Once it’s installed, you can get a long life from it with little maintenance other than regular cleaning. Real wood has a less expensive initial cost than composite wood because the material itself is cheaper. It can also be easy on your budget because there are a wide number of options. Real wood decking has stood the test of time as a popular favorite.

• For this reason, it is always a good idea to maintain or update your deck when it starts to fall apart and/or look outdated.
• Typically, wood decking is lower cost to purchase than composites, especially in the initial purchase.
• We all know that patios provide a wonderful space to enjoy the warmth and relaxation of spring, summer, fall and depending on where you live, winter.
• Often, people choose premium products like composite decking, which an attractive, low maintenance finish.
• This is a huge advantage to those who hate to spend time and money treating and maintaining their wood decks.

So, you are left with the final decision in examining the pros and cons of composite decking. There are many factors to consider, including maintenance, budget, appearance, durability, and availability.

Are you considering adding a deck to your Eastern Washington or North Idaho home? Contact the professionals at Ridgeline Decks to discuss your options. We will help you create a customized outdoor living space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Many choices – Composite decking comes in a variety of colors to match any exterior and complement the curb appeal of your home. Composites have few maintenance needs, so you'll have plenty of time to take care of the ones that do crop up.

With Trex, you don’t have to make a compromise between looks, performance and maintenance requirements–you can have it all. Thanks to its protective outer shell, Trex can be cleaned using a simple solution of soap and water, resists fades and stains and won’t warp, crack or split. The outer surface can also resist normal scratches caused by chair legs, boots or your pets’ claws.

Wood decking has historically had an advantage over composites when it comes to summer weather, as composites can become uncomfortably hot in direct sun, give their density. Did you know feet can begin to blister at temperatures as low as 109 degrees Fahrenheit? Showing that 35% difference can be crucial, especially in the peak of summer heat. Consumer Product Safety Commission, residential wood structures built prior to 2004 that weren't made of redwood or cedar likely contain a chemical preservative comprised of arsenic. Exposure to such residues has historically been a health and safety concern.

Pros And Cons Of Composite Decking Revealed

Before you make a commitment, weigh the pros and cons of composites. Equal parts of wood fiber and plastic are mixed with pigments, ultraviolet inhibitors, and borate preservatives, then usually heated and extruded. The texture, if any, is embossed onto the warm surface before it cools.