Ethan Clarke
When it comes to decking, there are several options available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. While wood is a popular choice for its natural beauty and low cost, it requires regular maintenance and is susceptible to rot, termites, splintering, and cracking. On the other hand, composite decking, made from a combination of plastic and wood fibers, offers greater durability and requires less maintenance. It is resistant to rotting, insects, and fading but may lack the natural look and colour of wood. PVC decking, made entirely of plastic, is highly durable, moisture-resistant, and low-maintenance, but it may not have the same aesthetic appeal as wood. The choice between these options depends on factors such as budget, climate, and personal preferences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Plastic wood is more expensive than wood. |
| Durability | Plastic wood is more durable than wood. |
| Maintenance | Plastic wood requires less maintenance than wood. |
| Environmental impact | Plastic wood is not environmentally friendly. Wood is a renewable resource that sequesters carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. |
| Aesthetics | Plastic wood does not look like natural wood. |
| Installation | Plastic wood may be more difficult to install than wood due to its hardness. |
| Safety | Plastic wood is safer than wood as it is resistant to splintering and cracking. |
| Weather resistance | Plastic wood is more resistant to weather conditions than wood. |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic decking is more expensive but requires less maintenance than wood
- Wood is susceptible to rot, termites, splintering and cracking
- Composite decking is made from recycled materials
- Wood is a renewable resource and can be reused or recycled
- Tropical hardwoods like ipe are dense, durable and resistant to decay
Plastic decking is more expensive but requires less maintenance than wood
When it comes to decking, plastic and composite materials are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional wood. While plastic decking is more expensive than wood, it requires less maintenance, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.
Wood is a natural product and is often the most cost-effective and efficient material for creating deck flooring. From pressure-treated softwoods to non-domestic hardwoods, wood is widely available and offers a range of options to suit different budgets and design requirements. Pressure-treated wood is the most affordable and widely used decking material, but it requires regular maintenance to prevent splintering and cracking.
On the other hand, plastic decking, also known as PVC decking, offers exceptional durability and requires minimal maintenance. It is resistant to moisture, insects, and UV rays, ensuring a long lifespan with little upkeep. This makes it an attractive option for homeowners seeking a low-maintenance solution for their outdoor spaces.
Composite decking, which combines plastic with wood fibers or other recycled materials, also offers durability and low maintenance. Composite decking is available in a variety of colours and textures, and it does not need to be stained or sealed like wood. While composite decking may cost more upfront, its long-term durability and reduced maintenance needs can result in cost savings over time.
The choice between plastic, composite, and wood decking ultimately depends on factors such as budget, design preferences, maintenance expectations, and environmental considerations. Each material has its advantages and drawbacks, and homeowners must carefully evaluate these factors to make the best decision for their specific needs and requirements.
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Wood is susceptible to rot, termites, splintering and cracking
Wood is a common choice for exterior decks due to its cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. However, it is susceptible to various issues, including rot, termites, splintering, and cracking.
Rot, also known as wood decay, is caused by fungi that break down the wood, feeding on its cellulose and lignin. There are two main types of rot: wet rot and dry rot. Wet rot is prevalent in moisture-heavy environments, while dry rot occurs in damp wood with 20%-30% moisture content and poor ventilation. Rot causes the wood to become weak, spongy, and discoloured, eventually leading to cracking and splintering.
Termites are another significant concern for wood structures. These insects infest wood, often going unnoticed until the damage is extensive. Termites tunnel through the wood, creating intricate networks of passages called mud tubes. They can cause structural damage to joists, subfloors, wall studs, and ceiling beams, resulting in sagging floors, creaking sounds, and even potential collapse.
In addition to rot and termites, wood is also prone to splintering and cracking over time, especially if it is not properly maintained. Splintering and cracking can create sharp edges and an uneven surface, making it unsafe and uncomfortable to walk on with bare feet.
To address these issues, pressure-treated wood is often used for exterior decks. The preservative copper azole is forced into the wood, making it unappealing to insects and resistant to fungi. However, pressure-treated wood still requires regular maintenance, and precautions must be taken during cutting and installation to ensure effective preservation.
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Composite decking is made from recycled materials
Composite decking is a popular choice for exterior decks. It is made from a combination of wood and plastic, with some companies using recycled materials. Composite decking is more expensive than traditional wood decking upfront, but it is more durable and requires less maintenance, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.
Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled plastic and reclaimed wood. Companies like Trex use up to 95% recycled plastic film and reclaimed sawdust in their composite decking products. Trex claims that their plastic comes from recycled shopping bags, while other companies like NewTechWood use recycled plastic bottles. By using reclaimed wood and sawdust, these companies ensure that no trees are cut down to manufacture their products.
In addition to using recycled materials, composite decking manufacturers also focus on sustainable production processes. For example, Trex has a proprietary processing method that eliminates the use of smoke stacks, while NewTechWood conducts yearly third-party audits to comply with environmental, health, and safety guidelines.
Composite decking is also designed to be long-lasting and maintenance-free. It is resistant to rotting, insects, staining, fading, scratching, and mould. Unlike wood decking, composite decking does not need to be painted, stained, or sealed, saving time and money over the long term.
Overall, composite decking made from recycled materials offers a durable, low-maintenance, and environmentally friendly option for exterior decks. While it may be more expensive upfront, its long-term benefits make it a popular alternative to traditional wood decking.
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Wood is a renewable resource and can be reused or recycled
Wood is a popular choice for exterior decks due to its cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. While composite decking, which combines plastic and wood fibres, offers durability and low maintenance, wood is a natural and renewable resource with environmental benefits.
Wood is a renewable resource because trees can be replanted and regrown, ensuring a continuous supply. This makes wood a more sustainable option compared to non-renewable resources that can be depleted. Additionally, wood can be reused or recycled, further reducing its environmental impact. When a wood deck is removed, the material can be reused for various purposes, burned as firewood (if not pressure-treated), or composted into soil.
Reusing wood helps conserve natural resources and reduces waste. It prevents the need to use new materials, minimizing the impact on the environment. Reclaimed wood from demolitions or certified sustainable forests can be utilized for decking, reducing the demand for new lumber.
Wood can also be recycled into new products, although the process may be more complex for wood that has been treated or combined with other materials, such as composite decking. Recycling wood saves energy and reduces emissions by storing carbon throughout its lifespan. Wood is composed of about 50% carbon, making it an essential tool in mitigating climate change.
When choosing wood for decking, it is important to consider the source and ensure it comes from sustainably managed forests. Properly managed forests maintain a balance between planting and felling, ensuring the long-term availability of wood as a renewable resource. By opting for wood decking, you can create an environmentally friendly outdoor living space while supporting sustainable forestry practices.
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Tropical hardwoods like ipe are dense, durable and resistant to decay
When it comes to choosing the right material for your exterior deck, you may be considering plastic wood as an option. While composite decking has its advantages, wood is often the most cost-effective and aesthetically pleasing choice. Natural wood, such as pressure-treated wood, is a classic low-cost option, but it requires regular maintenance and is susceptible to decay over time.
Tropical hardwoods like ipe offer a premium alternative that is dense, durable, and highly resistant to decay. Ipe, also known as Brazilian Walnut, is a dense exotic hardwood that is naturally resistant to moisture, UV light, and insects. Its density makes it less prone to wear and tear, splintering, and cracking, making it an excellent choice for outdoor decks.
One of the most impressive characteristics of ipe is its resistance to decay. The wood is rated as very durable and is naturally resistant to mildew and decay. This makes ipe an ideal choice for exterior decks, as it can withstand the elements and maintain its structural integrity over time.
The density of ipe also contributes to its durability and resistance to decay. Ipe is one of the densest hardwoods available for outdoor construction. In fact, it is so dense that it sinks in water. This density, along with its natural oils, makes ipe virtually impenetrable to insects, preventing insect deterioration.
In addition to its decay resistance, ipe offers other advantages that make it a desirable choice for exterior decks. It has a high friction coefficient, making it safe for outdoor use, and it does not become hot in the sun. Ipe also has excellent weathering characteristics and maintains its appearance with minimal maintenance. However, due to its hardness, ipe can be challenging to work with and may require professional installation.
Overall, tropical hardwoods like ipe are an excellent choice for exterior decks due to their density, durability, and resistance to decay. While they may come with a higher price tag, their natural beauty and long-lasting performance can make them a worthwhile investment for your outdoor space.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic wood, or composite wood, is a mixture of plastic and wood fibres. It is resistant to rotting, insects, staining, fading, scratching and mould. It is also long-lasting and requires less maintenance than natural wood.
Composite decking is more expensive than wood and may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some prefer the natural look and colour of real wood. It is also not a recyclable material.
Woods like Cedar, Redwood, pressure-treated Pine, and exotic hardwoods like Ipe are commonly used for decks due to their strength, durability, and resistance to decay, insects and other natural elements.
