Taking a Closer Look at Decking Materials and Their Pros and Cons
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Various decking materials are now available in the market. They give homeowners more choices in redesigning their homes, taking several factors into consideration such as their taste and budget. Each type of deck material has its own pros and cons. In this article, let us discuss two main deck materials plastic and wood-- and their own advantages and disadvantages.
The major difference between plastic and wood deck has to do with the factor of durability. Woods deform and rot. They are also a favorite of insects, although some woods may not be as inviting to insects as the others. Plastic, on the other hand, do not attract insects at all. They neither decompose because they do not trap moisture. When kept well, plastic decks will not have any problem even after 20 years of installation.
As for the aspect of maintenance, plastic decks require less attention than wood decks. The latter requires a regular cleaning schedule and resealing, while the former does not need to be resealed. It can also be easily cleaned by using a power washer. Wooden decks are not power washed because they entrap moisture.
During installation, wooden decks are more uncomplicated. You pick the plank and install it using a nail. Plastic decking, on the other hand, involves some holding and fastening methods. It may demand more support as it is more flexible.
Wooden decks are generally more attractive in appearance than plastic decks, although some of the latter can look exactly just like real pieces. The color of the wood may also change overtime, usually to the shade of gray. Plastic, on the other hand, usually just fades.
Now, while decking made of plastic may look like wood, it can never feel like it. Wood feels a lot better than plastic. When the sun is up and the deck is exposed to it, the wood does not heat up as fast as plastic does. A plastic deck has the tendency to be uncomfortable on bare feet when the sun has shone on it too long. This is especially true when your deck has a lighter color. Plastic decking can also be slippery when wet, and therefore, a bit dangerous. When opting for a plastic deck, you should specifically ask for one that is skid-resistant.
As for the price, plastic decks are generally more affordable than wood decks. However, when you include the cost of other materials and labor, their costs can be quite similar. Some plastic decks are made from recycling. Naturally, they are cheaper than those made from virgin materials.
If you can not make up your mind on which kind of material to go for, you may opt for one which is made of plastic and wood combo. This combination is getting more and more popular these days. Called composite decking, it gives people the looks of woods and convenience of plastic. |
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Author Resource:-
Nick Morgan is an expert as regards decking. To find out almost everything relating to decking, visit the online business at => http://ecodek.co.uk
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By :
Jessie Stone
Submitted
2010-10-25 11:34:35 |
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