Whether you are making a new deck or replacing an old one, there are many things to consider. One of the most important things to consider is what material to use for your new deck. Most people think of solid wood, but you can also use composite decking. This guide will explain what composite decking is, the different types of composite decking, and its pros and cons. Then we’ll answer some of the most common questions people have about composite decking.

What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking board is made from plastic and wood fibers, which are then mixed with additives such as UV inhibitors and then heated and extruded. As a result, it is stronger and more durable than wood. The composite decking material is more environmentally friendly than wood, lasts longer, requires less maintenance, and is more durable. Composite decking manufacturers can make decking in a variety of colors and surface textures to meet customer needs.

Composite decking first appeared in the 1990s. However, the first generation of composite decking was more expensive, only available in gray, and had a distinctly plastic texture. Although it offered a low-maintenance deck, it was not popular.

With the changing needs of society and the advancement of technology, composite decking has undergone dramatic changes. Now, composite decking not only has the texture of natural wood but also boasts excellent resistance to water, mildew, insects, and fading. This low-maintenance deck trim material takes the hassle out of regular deck maintenance.

In addition to standard composite decking, many manufacturers offer the even better performance of capped composite decking, which is surrounded by a polymer shell that better protects the composite decking from the elements. Of course, capped composite decking is also more expensive.

Different Types of Composite Decking Boards

There are three common types of composite decking on the market today. They are solid, hollow, and capped composite decking.

Solid Capped Composite Decking Board CO-03

Capped with an HDPE layer, Capped Composite Decking is made excellent at resisting stains, scratches, weathering, and fading.

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Solid Composite Decking

Solid composite decking boards are heavier and stronger. They look more like wood and are usually used in hotels, homes, businesses, and around swimming pools. It can also be used to build boardwalks on paths leading to homes. That being said, solid composite decking is suitable for use in high-traffic areas.

Additionally, solid composite decking boards can expand and contract in the weather with significant temperature changes. If not handled properly, these decking boards can warp or become damaged. Therefore, when installing solid composite decking, be sure to follow the composite decking manufacturer’s installation instructions strictly.

Hollow Composite Decking

Hollow composite decking has a regular hole structure in the center of the core. This type of composite decking board is lighter in weight and easier to transport. Of course, it is less resistant to damage and is not suitable for use in high-traffic areas.

If you use hollow composite decking to build your patio deck. Then it can make your outdoor living space more beautiful and neat. This is because professionals can use them to hide wires. This way, you can get a deck that is free of wires or other clutter.

In addition, this composite decking can be used to build siding and cladding. Sturdy and durable with a wide range of colors, composite wood decking can enhance the appearance of your house in a better way.

Capped Composite Decking

Capped composite decking consists of a core and a polymer shell. The core material is the same as that of standard composite decking. The polymer shell is made entirely of synthetic material, which is more resistant to stains and scratches and prevents fading. These capped composite decks are great choices for the beach, pool, patio, and many other places.

Why is Composite Decking Better?

As a common decorative material for outdoor decks, it has many advantages that traditional wood does not have. These benefits make it a great alternative to wood decking, and it’s becoming more and more popular with homeowners. Here are some of the advantages of composite decking material:

Low Maintenance

Low maintenance is one of the biggest advantages of composite decking. Wood decks require regular maintenance, repair, and sealing work. Composite decking boards, on the other hand, only need to be cleaned with soap and water every once in a while to maintain their appearance. Thus, composite decking is a low-maintenance option for people living in different environments and places.

Multiple Options

You can choose from different types of composite decking with additional features such as UV protection and stain protection. This helps to make the decking fit your needs and find the right product for your residence.

Additionally, composite decking is available in many colors and finishes. This makes it easy to make the deck match the exterior of your home.

Good for the Environment

The use and promotion of composite decking are good for the planet in many ways. This is because it is made from recycled plastic and wood fibers.

These wood fibers are usually sourced from unusable resources such as recycled wood, wood chips, and branches. This way, a tree can be used for more things. Composite decking manufacturers are reducing the number of trees cut down by giving them more uses.

On the other hand, recycled plastics usually come from the oceans and household plastic waste. So, manufacturing composite decking prevents these plastics from entering water and other ecosystems. Moreover, composite decking materials can be recycled, so they will not go into landfills.

Imitation of Natural Wood Grain

Thanks to technical methods such as embossing and coloring, composite decking boards look a lot like real wood. Unlike wood decking, composite wood decking is less likely to fade, stain or scratch.

This means that using high-quality composite decking will not only spare you the hassle of regular maintenance, but will also give you the natural look of a solid wood deck.

Hidden Fasteners

In the past, professionals used nails and screws when building decks. Aside from the obvious, they can lead to premature corrosion, cracking, and rotting of the deck if not installed properly.

Composite decking usually has a grooved structure on the sides, which allows you to use hidden fasteners to secure composite decking boards. Therefore, installing composite decking using hidden fasteners is not only strong, but it also gives you a smooth, clean deck surface.

Water Resistance

Composite decking material is made from recycled plastic and wood fibers. Therefore, this decking material contains the properties of plastic. Plastic is known to have excellent water resistance. This is why composite decking has excellent water and mold resistance. So, for living in places where there is a lot of rain and snow, composite decking is more suitable than wood decking.

Non-slip Texture

For most outdoor decks, the surface of the deck becomes slippery when water is present. Slippery deck surfaces are often a safety hazard, and composite decking boards often have a 3D wood grain surface that improves the friction of the deck.

You can choose composite decking that has this feature, which is perfect for use when it’s raining, near the pool, or when snow accumulates in the winter. Although composite decking still looks like solid wood, it is not as slippery.

Other Considerations for Composite Decking

Here are some things to keep in mind when learning more about composite decking boards:

Cost

The total cost of composite decking depends on the style, options, and features you choose. In general, though, composite decking is more expensive than pressure-treated wood. However, over time, the lower maintenance costs will make up for the initial cost.

Adapting to the Environment

Composite decking boards are subject to temperature variations. It is equally subject to thermal expansion and cold contraction. Therefore, before officially installing composite decking, leave it for two weeks. This will help to avoid the warping of the composite decking after installation.

Melting Point

Composite decking boards sometimes melt because they are made of recycled plastic. If hot coals or grease are dropped on top of the decking, these may damage the composite decking surface. Therefore, have fireproof mats or grease trays ready when you grill or cook on your composite decking.

Hidden Fasteners

While hidden fasteners give the decking a smooth, beautiful look. However, hidden fasteners can also cause trouble if you need to fix them. If you need to replace a board, you’ll have to remove it from underneath. This may mean removing more than one piece of composite decking board.

To Summarize

Composite decking has many benefits for homes. They can withstand the elements and have a smooth, clean look. You can design the deck to your liking because composite decking comes in many colors, styles, and features. Best of all, they don’t require much maintenance to keep looking great.

COOWIN can provide high-quality composite decking boards. As a manufacturer of composite decking with more than 20 years of experience, COOWIN can provide the best material at the best price. Contact us now, and you can get a free sample of composite decking to get a better understanding of our products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does Composite Decking Consist of?

Composite decking, also known as “artificial wood”, is made by mixing together wood fibers, recyclable plastics, and other additives. This composite material has many of the properties of wood and plastic.

How Long Does Composite Decking Last?

These composite decks are very durable and can last for many years. They can withstand exposure to the elements, rot, heat, mold, and mildew, and require very little maintenance to keep them looking good. When properly installed and maintained, composite decking can last 25-30 years.

How Do I Care for Composite Decking?

Composite decking does not require regular restoration, staining, and sealing work. Of course, you still need to do cleaning work on it. All you need to do is use a broom to remove leaves and other debris from the surface of your Composite decking and then use mild, soapy water to clean it thoroughly.