Getting to Know More About Composite Decking
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Not so long ago, building a deck only meant using woods. These days though, several decking materials are already available and homemakers have their freedom to choose which one fits them best. As the quest to making things better and more convenient never ends, so does the quest for developing materials for building decks.
Wooden decks are wonderful but they need regular maintenance and care. For some decks, sanding, resealing, and staining are an annual routine, although some of them can last years before getting some pampering.
During the past years, some manufacturers of deck materials came up with alternative choices for people who want lower maintenance options. Aside from aluminum and vinyl, plastic can also be used in creating decks. However, the biggest segment of the industry is what s now called composite decking.
Composite decks are created from the combination of wood and plastic. These materials are processed so they can give the looks of wood. Both of them may be from virgin or recycled pieces. For instance, byproducts such as wood fiber, saw dust, and chips can be used in producing composites.
During the process, some preservatives and pigments are added to improve the material s quality. They are heated and molded into boards. When they cool down, they are ready for use. Composite decks are typically heavier than woods, although not necessarily stronger. However, they are absolutely advantageous in the sense that they do not splinter, warp, or rot too fast. They also do not need to be stained, painted, or sealed.
- It is not tough to maintain a composite deck. Just like other decks, you need to regularly sweep it and deal with stains as soon as possible. You can hose it down twice a year using just water and soap. Although the color of the deck will somewhat fade after being installed, it is not expected to fade drastically.
There are two type of composite decking: solid and hallow. The former is heavier and looks more like wood while the latter looks more like man-made. Solid composites are also heavier and because of this, they have the tendency to contract or expand more due to temperature changes. On the other hand, hallow composites do not react as much to these environmental elements.
Regardless whether the composites are solid or hallow, they both need to be treated with some preservatives as well as an anti-fungal solution. Otherwise, their durability may be affected. Since they are partly made of wood, they may rot too. This is especially true when there s excessive moisture. Some composites may be consisted of as much as 70|wood. Naturally, the higher the wood composition, the higher the rotting probability. However, when treated properly, composites can last for over two decades without any problem.
Composite decks can be a good choice if you can t afford to buy and maintain wooden decks but do not really want to go for 100 percent plastic decking. They are also more modern and easier to maintain. |
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Author Resource:-
Nick Morgan is a professional as regards decking. To discover everything about plastic decking, drop by the internet site at => http://ecodek.co.uk
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By :
Jessie Stone
Submitted
2010-10-21 06:33:38 |
Article From Article Mayhem
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