In the current day & age, homeowners tend to have more decking choices than ever before. But, with more choices confusion is inevitable, which makes it all the more essential to find the proper material you require for your decking needs.
In case you’re planning to build a deck for your home outdoors, then you’ve arrived at the correct place as we’re going to differentiate between composite, wood and plastic decking materials. As a result, you can make the correct choice when it comes to choosing the ideal decking material.
Wood Decking
According to a popular service provider offering composite decking in Perth, back in the days, homeowners only had to choose wood decking as the only option because plastic and composite decking were not discovered. The main three types of wood used in this decking process include cedar, redwood and pressure-treated wood. If you want exotic hardwood, then you have options such as garapa and ipe, which are more durable and denser, for some additional price.
Benefits
- Wood decking looks natural
- It tends to stay cooler compared to plastic and composite decking
- Highly value for money
Drawbacks
- Availability of lumber is limited
- Proper maintenance processes should be carried out such as sealing, sanding, painting and staining
- Can crack, split or even fade
- Can be susceptible to insect, mould and mildew infection
- Can rot or warp
Composite Decking
Composite decking or wood composite decking was introduced into the market, during the 1990s. It was an alternative to traditional wood. Compared to plastic decking which contains 100 percent synthetic materials, composite decking contains plastic & wood ingredients. The ratio between wood & plastic will vary according to each brand.
Benefits
- Composite decking needs less maintenance compared to wood
- Can last longer than traditional wood decking
- Will contain recycled materials
- Multiple colour options
Drawbacks
- Weaker than traditional wood which leads to bending or sagging
- Can be susceptible to insect infestation, mould, mildew and rot
- Can be slippery to walk on
- Can look like fake wood
- Can experience high contraction in the winter and expansion in the summer
Plastic Decking
As per a popular company for decking in Perth, plastic decking excludes the use of any organic material like wood. The boards are mainly manufactured out of PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), PE (Polyethylene) and PP (Polypropylene). Plastic decking can also include recycled ingredients.
Benefits
- Extremely waterproof
- Will not be susceptible to mould, mildew, rot or insect infestation
- Resistant to external weathering elements
- Requires less maintenance than wood
- Can contain recycled ingredients
- Numerous colour options
- Higher longevity
Drawbacks
- Weaker than traditional wood which can lead to sagging or bending
- Can be slippery
- Can have a fake wood-like appearance
- Will expand & contract in the summer and winter season respectively
If you require any additional assistance, be sure to contact our experts today.