Are you hesitant to install fake wood for your decking? With the advancements in composite decking, you might want to reconsider. Composite decking, also known as fake wood, comes in different types, and some even compare favorably with real wood. Let’s take a look at the available options and determine whether composite wood is the right choice for your next decking project.
Composite decking is made to replace traditional wood decking boards. It can be used to construct freshwater docks if you choose the right type. According to theconstructor.org, there are three main types of composite decking: solid composite decking, hollow composite decking, and capped composite decking.
Solid composite decking is a heavy-duty product made from a combination of plastic and wood products or plastic and mineral fillers.
Hollow composite decking is lightweight and suitable for low-impact applications. It is not suitable for docks or decks but can be used for siding or cladding.
Capped composite decking has a synthetic coating that is textured and colored to look like wood. Internally, it is made of a mixture of polypropylene and wood material. This type of composite decking is more robust than hollow composite decking, but it doesn’t have the strength of solid composite decking.
So, which type of composite decking should you choose? The clear winner is solid composite decking. Tommy Docks offers composite decking that outshines the leading brand in terms of strength-to-weight ratio, maximum deflection at midspan, and thermal movement. Our composite decking comes with a 25-year removal and replacement warranty that includes ground and water contact.
The initial cost of composite decking may be more expensive than wood options, such as cedar, but this cost needs to be offset against the time and expense of yearly maintenance and the expected lifespan of the product. Composite docks are designed to be virtually maintenance-free, and they are not susceptible to mildew and staining. On the other hand, wood decks require regular maintenance to keep them from cracking, producing splinters, or warping over time. A wood dock may actually cost you more in the long run.
In terms of warranties, Tommy Docks offers a one-year warranty on all cedar dock packages, while composite docks come with a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty. Composite decking is available in a limited range of styles, but it will not fade and is unaffected by UV rays or microbes that can alter the appearance of natural products. Wood decking, on the other hand, allows you to constantly update the look of your deck by staining it a different color each year.
When it comes to eco-credentials, wood is a natural material that removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. However, it needs to be resealed with fossil fuels on a yearly basis and has a shorter lifespan. Composite decking is made from fossil fuels, but it lasts longer and requires very little maintenance. It may also be recyclable if you buy it cut to size to reduce waste.
In summary, composite decking is an excellent option for your decking project, particularly solid composite decking. It is virtually maintenance-free, comes with a long warranty, and is more durable than wood. However, if you enjoy updating the look of your deck regularly and prefer a natural product, wood decking might be the right choice for you. Either way, be sure to weigh the pros and cons before making your final decision.
