In enhancing an outdoor space, decking plays an important functional and aesthetic role. Of all the different decking types on offer today, composite decking has emerged as the most-sought-after option among homeowners. Really the promise of durability and low maintenance, as well as a modern look, make composite decking seem the best option for any deck installation. All considerations notwithstanding, it is best to say you understand fully the pros and cons of composite decking before making that final decision.
At Reddy Pros, we really want homeowners to make the right choice so that such filter options will suit their preferences as well as their needs. In this article, we will cover some important factors that you should note when buying the composite decking. Let us explore what you must know to dictate how best to do it for your home.
- The Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Savings
The very first thing that becomes evident when considering composite decking is the initial cost. Typically, composite material costs are more than wooden ones. Although the price typically off-putting, it is best to keep in mind that savings accrue with composite decking over time. Wooden decks require hand and foot widely regular maintenance like sanding, staining, sealing, and more. These figures quickly add up over the years.
On the contrary, composite decking requires the least maintenance. There would not be sanding or staining needed and highly resistant to a lot of problems that normally wood decks will have: warping, splinters, and insect damage. If the reduced maintenance cost was taken into account, then the composite decking would generally be more cost-effective in the long run.
If you are cash strapped in the beginning, try and ask your contractor about finance options for installing different brands of composite decking that come in different prices. - Heat Retention and Comfort
For warm climates or for one who tends to spend days outdoors feat during the summer, heat retention might be another important topic to think about. Composite decks tend to suck in and keeps more heat compared to natural wood. Resultantly, the surface of a deck becomes quite heated to the touch on a hot day making it not comfortable walking barefoot on it. This might prove specific concern to a family with small children or pets who spend long hours on the deck.
Some of the newest types of composite decking include a unique technology for being heat resistant enshrined in their structure, therefore making this problem a lot better. It is still always better to take to consider your local climate and how much sunlight exposure your decking would be getting before choosing.
Fading and Discoloration Over Time
While composite decking is fairly well known nowadays to fade quite resistantly, it does not fade completely. This means USUALLY when materials start color fading due to this loss of color in parts of the area exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Generally, lighter shades of composites hold up better against UV damage than darker species. If you are very much interested in keeping the deck as bright and vivid as possible for a long time, you might consider a lighter color.
To maintain the aesthetics of your deck, you can periodically clean and UV protect it for composite use. In addition, many makers will also sell you composite decking that has already been coated and made resistant to fading. - Surface Scratches and Durability
Composite decking is designed to last a long time, but as all products are susceptible to some damage, it is important to mention that though it has the best chance against meeting a rough fate, it is not 100%, expert sources say. However, dragging heavy furniture or sharp-edged objects across the floor usually causes scratches on the surface. Pet claws, legs of furniture, as well as gravel, may leave glaring traces on the surface. Though composite floorings are highly resistant to many of those problems that affect wood, it should definitely not be used roughly or abused.
Furniture pads, felt protectors, and rugs would be helpful in helping to preserve that deck. The other thing to prevent damage is dragging objects across the surface since it also helps maintain the material from being too damaged. - Questions of Mold and Mildew
Though composite decking won’t rot, can’t be eaten by termites, and won’t decay, you might still have to face the issue of mold and mildew. Mold growth begins with moisture, if the deck area is kept damp for long hours or shaded by trees it might be prone to mold growth. The issue is made worse in humid regions, but it may spring up anywhere if the deck is not kept clean.
Fortunately, regular cleaning and proper maintenance will prevent mold and mildew most of the time. Toward that end, schedule to clean the deck twice or thrice a year with mild detergent and a soft-bristle brush. If mold does form, you can find cleaners that are specially designed to remove it without damaging the surface of your deck. - Weight and Structural Considerations
The weight of composite decking materials really should be considered. Composite materials are usually heavier than traditional wood, which will invariably affect the structure of your deck. If the base of your deck is not designed to withstand the extra weight, then you could run into potential problems regarding its stability or even safety.
The first thing you should do before continuing with composite decking work is consult an award-winning contractor to ensure that the structure can hold the weight. This is certainly crucial for replacing an existing wood deck with composite decking, as the new material may require more structural support.]
Choosing the Perfect Composite Material
Not every kind of composite decking would be well for your needs; the selection of a good material becomes the cornerstone of any successful project. Composite decking is derived from the mixture of wood fibers and plastic and could very much depend on the manufacturer concerning quality. Some composite boards are constructed from materials that are more capable of resisting weathering than others.
Choose a composite material from major companies, and ask them what materials were used in their products. Look for the product’s warranties that speak of higher quality materials, and search for product reviews from homeowners who have utilized the product.
Conclusion: Is Composite Decking for You?
At Reddy Pros, we understand that picking decking material of choice is a big decision and one with a set of pros and cons considered.Composite decking has several advantages including low maintenance and durability. On the other hand, important considerations such as heat retention, fading, surface scratching, and mold growth should be weighed carefully before a decision is made.
