Need strength and beauty in your outdoor space? Well, there are a few ways to tick these boxes. One way that has got the excitement stirring in homeowners recently is composite decking. Suppose your foray into endless articles hasn’t answered your questions so far. In that case, this type of decking is made from recycled materials, such as wood fibers and plastic, which makes it more durable than traditional wooden decking. What’s more, composite decking doesn’t require the same amount of upkeep natural wood does – it won’t rot or splinter, so you don’t have to worry about repainting, staining, or other maintenance that comes with wood decking (yippee!).
But how long does composite decking last? There isn’t just one answer (sorry!). It will vary depending on some interesting factors like the environment and whether you’re willing to give up some Sunday time to maintain the decking, but generally, most decks should last up to 25 years. This is thanks to its high resistance to rot and insect damage and its ability to retain color and resist fading. With proper maintenance (like cleaning regularly and sealing it every few years), your composite deck should still look great by the time 25 years roll around.
High temperatures, direct sunlight, and moisture can shorten the life of your decking (and leave you frustrated when the problems come!). The easiest way to prevent problems is some good old-fashioned elbow grease. Use a mild detergent and warm water and you’ll say goodbye to mold and mildew, which can cause discoloration if left unchecked. It might sound obvious, but keep an eye out for pesky nails or boards that rear their head. As well as causing strength issues, it blooming hurts to kick a nail without shoes on. It’s also wise to use sealant too.
Like our sensitive souls as humans, composite decking needs some love and attention sometimes. This type of addition is an investment that adds value and beauty to your home – so why not give it the TLC it deserves?
Common Misconceptions Regarding Composite Decking
Most of the internet is made up of misconceptions, and the world of composite decking is no different – just to keep our lives even more confusing. For example, some people think it won’t look as good or last as long as real wood because of the recycled materials. But the truth doesn’t follow this trend at all – look at some images online. Not only does composite decking come in a variety of colors and designs to suit every taste, but it also requires less maintenance and can last for decades.
Have you heard people say that the material isn’t as strong as wood? We have. Again, this isn’t true. In reality, composite decking is just as strong than traditional wooden decks. In case this isn’t enough, it comes with the added benefit of being resistant to rot, warping, fading, and insect damage…imagine not having to worry about these problems as much. What’s more, you’re also saving the planet one small step at a time because of its recycled nature – look at you go.
If you want all the benefits discussed by us here, composite decking such as Outdure decking could be what your many internet research sessions have been pointing toward. There’s no reason it won’t see you through many changes in life, if you give it some love.
If you’re not sold on composite decking just yet, maybe you’re someone who likes to consider every option and make notes on them all, some alternatives exist. Hardwood is a popular option for many homeowners, as it’s strong and durable and can last up to 20 years with proper care. Just keep in mind that hardwood requires regular staining and sealing to prevent rot and insect damage – something you won’t have to worry about with composite decking. Another option is pressure-treated wood, which uses a protective sealer to protect it from the elements. However, this type of wood can be more prone to splitting and warping over time.
Find the right decking solution for you today!