Composite Decking: How is it made?

From traditional wood to composite decking, there are a variety of products on the market today that can help you build the deck you’ve always wanted. Composite decking is one of the most popular alternative decking products and is more durable than traditional wood decking. The big question for many customers is, what material is used to make composite decking and how does it last so long?

What Is Composite Decking Made of?

Composite decking is made of wood and plastic. Wood particles can be anything from sawdust, wood flour, and wood fiber chips. The plastic parts can be virgin plastic or recycled plastic material. Composite decking is considered a more environmentally friendly product for deck construction due to the use of recycled or recycled materials in the manufacturing process.

Primary Ingredients of Composite Decking

The main components of all composite decking are plastic and wood. Many times, the plastic and wood used to make composite decking comes from recycled materials, making composite decking an especially eco-friendly choice.

For example, COOWIN composite decking is made from up to 90% recycled materials from post-industrial and post-consumer sources. All of the raw materials—sawdust, wood chips and wood fibers—used to make the hardwood “flour” that COOWIN mixes into its composites come within 500 miles of its manufacturing facility in Qingdao, China.

How Is Capped Composite Decking Different from Uncapped Composite Decking?

The two most popular types of composite decking are capped composite decking and uncapped composite decking. There are two main processes in manufacturing composite decking, one of which is extrusion. This is called a forming process in which raw materials are mixed and forced through an opening to produce a product that’s relatively consistent in size and shape. The opening will be the size and shape of the decking board. The second process is called compression molding. Compression molding places mixed molten materials on a wood-grain mold, then compresses them under extremely high heat and pressure, creating a physical bond. Composite decking is heavier than traditional planks and cannot be used as a structural material.

It’s also important to note that capped composite decks are stain-resistant, but if stains do appear, they should be cleaned as soon as possible. Most stains can be removed with soap and water or household cleaning products. The best way to maintain a composite deck is to sweep it when necessary and rinse it with water occasionally. For a deep clean, a soap and water scrub once or twice a year is enough to keep it looking good for years to come. For the best, most beautiful composite decking options, choosing a trusted manufacturer like COOWIN is the first step in building the deck or outdoor living space of your dreams.

What Is the Manufacturing Process of Composite Decking?

To make composite decking, manufacturers typically employ one of two processes: extrusion or compression molding. During extrusion, producers mix and heat raw materials until they become malleable, then force them through deck-shaped openings. The second practice, called compression molding, involves pouring raw materials into molds. The heat and pressure from the closed mold turn the assembly into the composite decking you see on the shelf.

Extrusion

Extrusion is a forming process in which raw materials are mixed and forced through the opening to form a known uniform size and shape of the composite decking. The opening is set to the required panel size.

Compression moulding

After the composite materials are melted and can be shaped, they are placed on the wood grain mold and compressed under extreme heat and pressure to form a physical bond. Compression moulding can be used to create unique patterns and textures on the board to match the visual and texture design of your deck.

The result of these two methods is that the decking is greatly sturdy, stylish and practical. New technology means that our decoration has natural appearance texture, natural finish and perfect natural color scheme to suit your other decoration or outdoor aesthetics. Our collection complements any design or style, from classic to modern or somewhere in between. For more information on the aesthetic implementation of the above methods, visit our product page.

Whether you are an expert or a first-time decorator, our installation process is very simple. As long as our experienced, knowledgeable and passionate staff make a composite decking, you can complete the installation. Through our comprehensive installation guide, we offer options that can save up to 70% of installation costs, including fast, simple, and hidden fastening systems. This makes our composite decking easier to install and maintain than wood decking. What we need to install our decking is standard woodworking tools, including drill, saw, sander, tape measure, level gauge and cordless screwdriver, as well as personal protective equipment.

The composite decking is unique because it is durable, safe and comfortable. Because the thermal attraction in summer is less, and the grip in rainy season is greater, the composite decking is the perfect solution for your money. With our proven real manufacturing process, based on passion, experience and worldwide knowledge of composite decking, our decking will make your outdoor entertainment area reach a higher level.