Sofia Martinez
Plastic decking, also known as composite decking, is a blend of recycled wood and plastic that is capped with a plastic shield. This type of decking is designed to be long-lasting and durable, with a lifespan of 25 to 50 years, depending on the quality of the materials used, installation, and maintenance. Composite decking is resistant to issues that commonly affect wooden decks, such as mould, rot, splintering, and fading, which helps to extend its lifespan beyond that of traditional wood decking.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | 25 to 50 years |
| Durability | Resistant to termites, splintering, warping, cracking, rotting, sun damage/fading, moisture damage, and insect damage |
| Maintenance | Power wash once a year |
| Eco-friendliness | Made from 95% recycled materials |
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What You'll Learn
Composite decking's lifespan
Composite decking is designed to last for decades. With the right installation, proper maintenance, and high-quality materials, composite decking can last anywhere from 25 to 50 years. Some sources even claim that composite decking can last for up to 40 years or longer.
Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled wood and plastic, which is then capped with a strong plastic shield. This combination gives composite decking its superior strength and longevity. It is resistant to moisture, rot, insect damage, and the fading, cracking, and splitting that can occur with wood due to UV rays and moisture absorption. Additionally, composite decking does not splinter like wooden decks, which can happen as early as the 10-year mark for wooden decks.
The long lifespan of composite decking is further extended by its low-maintenance requirements. Unlike wooden decks, composite decking does not need to be sanded or sealed regularly. Instead, a simple power wash once a year is sufficient to maintain its structural integrity.
The durability and resistance to splintering of composite decking contribute to its superior lifespan compared to wooden decks. While wooden decks can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years with proper maintenance, they are more susceptible to mould, rot, and discoloration. Composite decking, on the other hand, can maintain its colour and structural integrity for much longer, making it a more cost-effective and low-maintenance option in the long run.
It is worth noting that the lifespan of composite decking can be influenced by various factors, including the quality of installation, the choice of materials, and the climate it is exposed to. For example, in climates with snow and ice, extra care may be needed to clear the deck and prevent the buildup of moisture. Overall, with the right care and maintenance, composite decking can be a long-lasting and durable choice for outdoor spaces.
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Durability vs. wooden decks
When it comes to durability, plastic decking has several advantages over wooden decks. Firstly, plastic decking is designed to be more durable and longer-lasting. It is made from composite materials that are resistant to moisture, rot, and insect damage, which are common issues with wooden decks. The composite boards are also engineered to be more resistant to warping, twisting, and splintering, which can be problems with wooden decks over time.
Wooden decks are more susceptible to the elements, such as prolonged exposure to sunlight, rain, and fluctuating temperatures, which can cause the wood to fade, crack, or split. In contrast, plastic decking is designed to withstand these elements without significant degradation. The plastic components within the composite decking help to prevent fading, cracking, and splitting caused by UV rays and moisture absorption.
Another advantage of plastic decking is its resistance to mould and rot. While mould and rot can destroy wooden deck boards, plastic decking is impervious to these issues. This significantly extends the lifespan of plastic decking compared to wooden decks. Additionally, plastic decking is also more resistant to termite damage, as termites prefer natural wood due to the presence of cellulose.
Plastic decking also requires less maintenance than wooden decks. Wooden decks need to be regularly sanded, painted, re-stained, and sealed to protect them from the elements and prevent degradation. In comparison, plastic decking only requires semi-annual cleaning, such as a simple pressure wash or a scrub with soap and water. This reduced maintenance can result in long-term cost savings for homeowners.
While plastic decking offers superior durability and lower maintenance, there are some trade-offs to consider. Plastic decking is typically more expensive upfront than wooden decks. Additionally, wooden decks offer a more natural and authentic look and feel, which some homeowners prefer. Wooden decks also provide more long-term customization options with stains and colours, whereas plastic decking cannot be easily changed once installed.
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Maintenance and upkeep
Plastic decking, also known as composite decking, is made from a mixture of materials, primarily plastic and wood. Composite decking is more durable than traditional wood decking and has a longer lifespan. While wood decking can last between 10 and 20 years with regular maintenance, composite decking can last 25 to 30 years or more with only a fraction of the upkeep.
Composite decking is considered low maintenance, but it does require some care and cleaning. Here are some tips for maintaining and caring for your composite deck:
- Sweep it regularly to keep it clear of leaves, snow, and ice.
- Power wash the deck once a year to remove any built-up dirt or grime.
- Scrub it with soap and water to remove food stains, grease stains, mould, rust, and scratches. Use warm soapy water and a thorough rinse to ensure the surface is clear of any remaining stains.
- Avoid using sharp tools, such as metal shovels or ice picks, to remove snow and ice, as these can gouge the surface. Instead, use a plastic shovel or leaf blower.
- Do not apply sand to create traction, as it can scratch the surface.
- Do not sand the top surface to remove scratches, as it will remove the embossed surface texture and cause discolouration.
- Do not attempt to fill deep scratches with putty or wood fillers, as they will not adhere to the composite material due to its plastic content.
- Do not apply paints, stains, or sealers to repair scratches or change the appearance, as these will not adhere due to the plastic content.
- Be careful when choosing a cleaner, as some can damage the composite material. Avoid chlorine-based or bleach-containing cleaners.
- Protect the surface by attaching padding to the feet of your furniture or using an outdoor carpet.
- Keep nearby trees and bushes trimmed to at least 12 inches from the deck to discourage moss, mould, and rot.
- Rearrange your outdoor furniture periodically to prevent sunlight from causing mismatched colour patches and to avoid water gathering beneath them.
- Avoid using rugs or mats made of natural materials, as they can trap moisture. Instead, opt for plastic or synthetic alternatives.
By following these maintenance and upkeep tips, you can keep your composite deck looking new and extend its lifespan.
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Resistance to insects and moisture
Composite decking is highly resistant to insects and moisture. The plastic components within composite decking help to prevent the fading, cracking, and splitting that can occur with wood due to UV rays and moisture absorption. Composite decks are designed to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight, rain, snow, and fluctuating temperatures without significant degradation.
The plastic shield in capped composite decking makes it more durable and long-lasting. Composite decking is also resistant to termites, unlike traditional wood, which contains cellulose, a termite's preferred food. Composite decking can withstand summer rays and frigid temperatures, although extra care may be needed after winter storms. It is recommended to sweep, shovel, or leaf-blow the deck clear after winter storms, being careful not to let snow and ice sit and melt on their own, as this can retain moisture and create a slipping hazard.
The durability of composite decking is due in part to its resistance to moisture. Water and moisture pose a significant risk to the durability of traditional wooden decking, as wooden deck boards can expand when they absorb moisture, leading to cracks and structural damage. In contrast, composite decking is much more resistant to water and moisture infiltration. The tight bond between the cap and core of composite deck boards prevents moisture from seeping into the material.
Additionally, composite decking is resistant to mould and rot, which can be a significant issue with wooden decks. While mould growth on composite decking can be unsightly, it will not cause the deck to rot and fall apart, as it would with wooden boards. This resistance to mould and rot contributes to the superior lifespan of composite decking compared to wooden alternatives.
Overall, the resistance of composite decking to insects and moisture is a key advantage of this material, contributing to its long lifespan of 25 to 50 years or more.
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Warranties and guarantees
Warranty Coverage:
Plastic decking products, including vinyl decking, often come with warranties that vary in length and coverage. Standard warranties for vinyl decks typically cover waterproofing, ensuring that your deck remains protected from moisture damage. On the other hand, composite decking, which combines natural wood and synthetic fibres capped with a vinyl shield, offers extended lifespans and comprehensive warranties.
Warranty Length:
The length of warranties for plastic decking can range from 15 years to 50 years, depending on the manufacturer and the specific product line. For example, popular brands like Tufdek and Duradek offer 15-year warranties, while other composite decking brands like Trex and TimberTech offer 25-year and 30-year warranties, respectively. The industry standard for structural warranties is around 25 years, reflecting the expected lifespan of the decking.
Stain and Fade Coverage:
Many plastic decking warranties include coverage for staining and fading. For instance, Trex offers a 25-year warranty that guarantees against significant fading or discolouration. TimberTech also provides fade and stain limited warranties for their PVC decking products. It's important to note that most warranties specify that colour changes within a certain range (e.g., 5 Delta E or less) are not covered by fade warranties.
Labour and Installation:
Some manufacturers include labour warranties or removal and replacement warranties, but these are often conditional on the installer being trained and certified. Proper installation by a reputable contractor is crucial to honouring your warranty. Some warranties may become null and void if the installation does not adhere to the manufacturer's specifications.
Transferability and Limitations:
It's important to understand the nuances of decking warranties. While some warranties cover full replacement costs, including labour, others may only cover materials. Additionally, some warranties are transferable if you sell your house, while others are not. It is essential to carefully review the warranty information provided by the manufacturer to understand the specific coverage, limitations, and exclusions.
When considering plastic decking, be sure to review the warranties and guarantees offered by different manufacturers. The length and comprehensiveness of the warranty can give you confidence in the quality and durability of the product. Remember that proper installation and maintenance are also crucial factors in ensuring the longevity of your plastic decking.
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Frequently asked questions
The lifespan of composite decking varies between 25 to 50 years, depending on the quality of the materials, installation, and maintenance. Composite decking is made from a blend of recycled wood and plastic, which is then capped with a plastic shield, making it resistant to moisture, rot, and insect damage.
Composite decking has a longer lifespan than wooden decking, which typically lasts between 10 to 20 years. Wooden decking requires regular maintenance, such as sanding, sealing, and staining, to reach its maximum lifespan. Composite decking, on the other hand, is more durable and resistant to issues like splintering, warping, and rotting.
The lifespan of composite decking depends on the quality of the materials used, the expertise of the installer, and the level of maintenance and care provided by the homeowner. Proper installation, maintenance, and the use of high-quality materials can ensure a long-lasting deck.
Yes, certain factors can shorten the lifespan of composite decking. For example, in regions with snow and ice, extra care is needed to keep the deck clear and prevent the buildup of moisture. Additionally, while composite decking is resistant to UV rays, direct sunlight over many years can cause some fading, although this is typically covered by manufacturer warranties.
