Sofia Martinez
Plastic decking, also known as composite decking, is a popular alternative to traditional wood decking due to its durability, low maintenance, and resistance to the elements. It is made from a combination of organic materials and plastics, typically recycled wood fibres and plastic. While some composite decking can look unnatural, many brands offer a range of textures, grain patterns, and colours that closely resemble natural wood, with some even improving upon the look of natural wood with beautiful colour blends and natural textures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Composition | Plastic and wood fibers |
| Durability | Resistant to rotting, splintering, staining, insects, water, and weather |
| Maintenance | Low-maintenance, no need for sanding, staining, or sealing |
| Lifespan | 25-30 years |
| Eco-friendliness | Made from recycled materials, reduces waste, and is recyclable |
| Appearance | Natural wood look, available in various textures, grain patterns, and colors |
| Texture | Smooth and consistent surface |
| Mold | Prone to black mold |
| Algae and dirt | Prone to algae and dirt buildup, but can be easily removed |
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What You'll Learn
Composite decking can be made from recycled materials
Composite decking is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wood decking. It is made from a combination of wood fibres or flour and plastic polymers, typically derived from recycled post-consumer materials like plastic bags, bottles, and reclaimed wood. The ratio of wood to plastic varies from brand to brand. For example, MoistureShield Composite Decking is made from 95% recycled content, including 25% post-consumer recycled content and 70% pre-consumer recycled content.
Composite decking is a sustainable choice because it reduces the need for logging and the consumption of virgin resources. The manufacturing process also has a lower environmental impact compared to traditional wood decking, as it involves recycling plastic that would otherwise end up in landfills. Additionally, composite decking is highly durable and requires little to no maintenance, further reducing its environmental impact over time.
The process of making composite decking involves mixing recycled wood fibres, plastic polymers, binding agents, and additives in a mixing chamber to create a consistent and well-distributed mixture. This mixture is then heated and forced through an extrusion process to form the desired shape of the deck boards. The extrusion process creates the wood-grain patterns found on the surface of composite decking, giving it a natural wood appearance.
Composite decking manufacturers like NewTechWood and MoistureShield are committed to sustainability and recycled materials. NewTechWood's products are made from 95% recycled materials, and the company has been recycling plastic materials for almost 30 years. MoistureShield, on the other hand, uses non-toxic polyethylene in its composite decking, which is the same material used for applications such as milk jugs, water jugs, and grocery sacks. By using recycled materials and reducing energy consumption, these companies are able to create durable and eco-friendly decking options for consumers.
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PVC decking is more expensive but low-maintenance
Plastic decking, or PVC decking, is a popular alternative to traditional wood decking. It is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and is known for its durability and low-maintenance requirements. While PVC decking is more expensive than wood or composite decking, it offers a number of advantages that make it a worthwhile investment for homeowners.
One of the biggest advantages of PVC decking is its low-maintenance nature. Unlike wood decking, which requires regular staining, sealing, and sanding, PVC decking only needs a quick wash once or twice a year to maintain its good shape. This is because PVC decking is made of hard plastic and is not susceptible to common issues like mould growth, insect infestations, and rot. It is also resistant to water damage, mildew, and decay, ensuring that it remains in good condition for a longer period of time.
The durability of PVC decking is another key benefit. PVC decking can last between 30 and 50 years, much longer than traditional wood decking. Capped PVC decking, which has a protective hard shell, is highly resistant to scratching and fading, further enhancing its durability. Additionally, PVC decking is lightweight and easy to work with, making it a convenient choice for installation and maintenance.
While PVC decking offers numerous advantages, there are also some considerations to keep in mind. One of the main drawbacks is the higher cost associated with PVC decking. The initial investment for PVC decking is significantly higher than that of wood or composite decking. Additionally, PVC decking can absorb heat and sunlight, causing it to become uncomfortably warm during warmer months. This heat retention can also lead to warping of the decking material over time.
Despite these considerations, PVC decking remains a popular choice for homeowners due to its low-maintenance requirements, durability, and resistance to common issues like mould and rot. It is an excellent option for those seeking a long-lasting and stylish alternative to traditional wood decking, provided they are comfortable with the higher upfront cost.
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Composite boards can look like natural wood
Composite decking is a blend of wood fibres and plastics, typically polypropylene or polyethylene. This combination creates a material that is stronger and more resilient than 100% plastic decking. The ratio of wood to plastic varies from brand to brand, and some composite boards are made from recycled materials.
Composite boards can closely resemble natural wood and are available in a wide range of textures, grain patterns, and colours. Some brands, like Deckorators, offer composite boards that mimic real wood grain. Other brands, like Trex, offer composite decking that resembles the natural look of wood but is said to improve upon it with beautiful colour blends and natural textures. While early generations of composite decking could sometimes look synthetic, today's top brands have dramatically improved the aesthetics of their products.
MoistureShield Composite Decking is another brand that combines the durability of composite decking with the beautiful look of natural wood. Their boards are made with 95% recycled content and use polyethylene, a non-toxic plastic commonly used in applications such as milk jugs and grocery sacks. Meridian, a type of MoistureShield decking, features a TruTexture™ surface that minimises the repetition of embossing patterns, making the boards look more realistic.
While composite decking can look like natural wood, it is important to note that some types may still appear unnatural. For example, while Trex decking offers a wide range of design options, some users have reported that their boards fail to achieve the look of natural wood. Additionally, composite decking is prone to black mould and algae, which can affect its appearance over time.
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Plastic decking is prone to weathering
Plastic decking is a popular alternative to traditional wood decking due to its longevity and ease of maintenance. It is made from a blend of recycled plastic and wood fibres, offering the look of wood without the extensive upkeep. While plastic decking is durable and moisture-resistant, it is still prone to weathering over time.
Weathering can cause a range of issues for plastic decking, including aesthetic concerns and functional problems. One of the most common signs of weathering is a change in appearance, such as fading or discolouration. This can be particularly noticeable on plastic decking, which often has a uniform colour and texture. Exposure to sunlight and UV rays can accelerate this process, making it a significant concern in outdoor spaces.
In addition to aesthetic changes, plastic decking may also experience physical deterioration due to weathering. Prolonged exposure to the elements, including moisture, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations, can cause the material to weaken and become more brittle. This can lead to cracking, splitting, and warping of the decking boards, compromising their structural integrity.
The impact of weathering on plastic decking can be mitigated through proper installation and maintenance. Homeowners should follow manufacturer instructions carefully, ensuring that the decking is installed correctly for the specific climate and environmental conditions. Regular cleaning and maintenance can also help, including the use of sealants or protective coatings to shield the decking from moisture and UV damage.
While plastic decking is designed to be durable and low-maintenance, it is important to recognise that it is not completely immune to the effects of weathering. By understanding the potential impact of weathering and taking proactive measures, homeowners can enhance the longevity and appearance of their plastic decking, minimising the negative consequences of exposure to the elements. Overall, while plastic decking offers advantages in terms of durability and maintenance, it still requires careful consideration and ongoing care to maintain its condition and appearance.
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Composite decking is more durable than wood
Composite decking is made by mixing plastics and wood fibres together and adding them to an extruder that forms the mixture into a composite board. The ratio of wood to plastic varies from brand to brand. Typically, composite decking incorporates polypropylene or polyethylene plastic, which works well with wood fibres to create a material that is stronger and more resilient than 100% plastic decking.
Composite decking is more expensive upfront than using pressure-treated wood. However, maintenance costs for composites are drastically reduced to near zero. Since water wear and insect damage are not factors, composite decks will outperform wood deck costs within a decade. Composite decking can be installed in the ground, on the ground, or underwater without any structural performance issues.
Wood decks are susceptible to rot, mould, insect damage, and splintering. In order to keep these problems at bay, you’ll need to re-paint or re-stain your wooden deck every summer. Wood is a more natural product, while composite is an artificial decking material. Composite decking offers greater diversity in design than wood decking, with more hues, tones, and patterns available.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic decking is an alternative to traditional wood decking. It is made from recycled plastics and wood fibres or, in the case of PVC decking, entirely synthetic polyvinyl chloride.
Plastic decking is designed to mimic the look of wood. Some composite decking brands, like TimberTech, are said to achieve this look better than others. Composite decking can also be made to look like natural wood with colour blends and natural textures.
Plastic decking is more durable and long-lasting than wood decking. It is also more resistant to weathering, staining, scratching, and fading. Unlike wood, composite decking does not need to be regularly stained or sealed.
Plastic decking is a low-maintenance option that is resistant to the elements. It is also an eco-friendly choice that reduces waste and can often be recycled at the end of its lifespan.
