What to Look for in a Composite Deck

Once you’ve decided to go ahead with a composite deck, the next consideration is how to choose the right material for your needs. Composite decks are far more versatile than wood and generally more durable and long-lasting — perfect for homeowners who plan to stay in their homes for the long term or maybe even resell at some stage.

If you like the idea of having a nice outdoor living space that can be enjoyed all year round, then you may have been thinking about composite decking in Melbourne. A composite deck is quick and easy to install and can often withstand a lot more wear and tear than a traditional wooden deck. However, there are a lot of things to consider before installing a composite deck, which is why I have put this article together for you today. I will walk you through everything from the cost to the style of composite decking so that you can make an informed decision as to whether or not it’s right for your home.

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Environmental impact

If you’re getting ready to build your deck with wood, you want to know the best environmentally friendly decking material. Is it Cedar? Is it Redwood? Not so fast. Comparing composite decking with normal wood materials ensures that you make an informed decision the next time you build your deck. Composite decks are not just trendy looking but made to be durable even through harsh weather types. And they are resistant to mold, decay, mildew and other damaging elements so you can be sure that it’s going to stay beautiful for a long time.

When you’re building your deck, it can be tempting to cut costs and buy the least expensive materials on the market. However, while recycled materials might cost a bit more, they’re ultimately better for the environment. It may come as a surprise, but you can actually benefit the environment with your choice of decking material. This is because while some materials might pose some environmental hazards while others utilize renewable resources. Composite decking doesn’t just help the environment by reducing its carbon footprint. It also helps by actually saving you money in the long run despite having quite an expensive entry price.

UV rays

Most composite decking is made from recycled plastic milk containers that are melted down into usable material. This material is combined with other natural or man-made materials to adhere to certain safety standards. One huge benefit is that plastic does not hold bacteria like wood might, which makes it easier to clean after use.

Bamboo decking can be a more environmentally-friendly option for building your beautiful new deck. Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that requires 70% less water than traditional timber decking. It is a renewable resource and unlike some other types of wood, it is not a protected species. Bamboo decking does not splinter or crack.

Solid and hollow

Just because a deck board is identified as ”redwood” doesn’t mean it’s all Redwood. There’s a fair amount of ”filler” in many decking boards as in most other wood products. Filler is made from various things — usually some type of wood — and once you’ve got filler in the deck board, it takes away from the overall quality of the product. To avoid filler, look for decking that features solid wood, such as 100% redwood.

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