Made from various combinations of waste wood fibers, non-renewable petroleum products and a small percentage of recycled plastics, composite decking materials are often used in the construction of decks.
The main advantage of this type of decking is its resistance to rot and insects. Composite decking materials are also not subject to cracking or warping. Furthermore, decks made with this material can last more than 25 years, and they do not require application of a stain.
However, since composite decking materials are made with a non-renewable petroleum products and many other chemicals (and with each manufacturer using its own secret recipe), they can’t be recycled and they are not biodegradable; so they will accumulate in our landfills – already filled to capacity.
Cleaning is also difficult in terms of food stains, greases and liquids. Similarly, composite decking materials may be prone to mildew stains caused by the accumulation of moisture in the wood fibers wrapped in the synthetic polymers. Also, the sun makes composite decking very hot for your feet when walking barefoot and the UV rays will eventually create color changes and fading.
Finally, due to their low strength/weight ratio, composite decking materials can not be used as a structural material, and a larger number of joists is needed to compensate for its low structural strength. Lastly, according to the humidity rate and temperature changes, there may be opening and closing of the joints due to the expansion and contraction of the wooden structure.
Show Less
your testimonial!