Have you decided to build a new deck or patio? Building a deck can add a new space and a new dimension to your home. You’ve probably already planned your first barbeque but have you given any thought to the materials you will build your deck from? Technology has been slowly advancing and improving the materials used in deck construction. You can now build a deck with wood and plastic materials that will last much longer than the decks built five years ago. One material that is constantly being improved upon is composite decking materials.
Composite decking came onto the market in the early 1990’s and was created in an environmentally friendly manner. Many composite decking materials are still being made with recycled materials such as recycled plastic milk cartons and discarded shipping pallets. Composite materials do not look or feel like plastic planks, the technology has advanced to the point where to a casual user your deck will look like the wood of your choice.
Choosing composite decking materials means less maintenance on your deck and more free time to enjoy your new space. Standard wood decks require constant care, you need to wash and treat the wood several times each year as well as monitoring the deck for insect damage or decay. Composite decking materials usually cost more than the traditional wood plank, but once you factor in the time you need to spend treating and caring for the traditional wood deck, the composite materials will save you money in the long run.
When building or repairing your deck you should consider the durability of composite decking materials in contrast to traditional wood planks. Many of today’s composites have the look and feel of traditional decking wood and the composite will hold its color for much longer than natural wood. Composites do not require painting or staining. All you need to do is wash your deck at least twice a year in order to prevent mildew and mold from building up. You should also inspect your deck at least once a year for any breakdown in the natural materials used to create the composite, but the chances of finding any issues is very slim.
Choose a composite deck material for your new building project and look for materials that clearly state they are created with recycled products. Some lesser priced composite decking is made using virgin plastic and wood instead of recycled materials. You may have to pay a little more for a composite deck material that is made from 100 percent recycled materials, but if you are interested in reducing the environmental impact of your building, choosing a recycled product can help.
Latest Videos of Composite Deck Materials:
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