What Are the Disadvantages of Composite Decking?
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Advantages of Composite Decking Boards
Today, more and more people are using composite decking. Composite decks have many advantages, and we can list a long list of them. They are less expensive to maintain than traditional wood decking. Composite decks don’t need to be stained or sealed every year and are resistant to rot, insects, and weathering, making them a durable option.
The color of composite wood decking is determined during the manufacturing process, so there is a wide range of colors to choose from. The composite material won’t rot, attract insects, or weather over time. This makes it one of the most durable decking materials available.
Problems with Composite Decks
Wrong Framing and High Temperatures
In the worst-case scenario, drastic changes in temperature can cause composite decking to move, expand, and contract. In addition, the framing of the deck can have a big impact on how well a composite deck will work.
The person building the deck must use the right materials for the framing of the composite decking. This is because drying and shrinking wood framing can cause composite decking boards to change shape and move with the framing. If not installed properly, the boards may fall off the frame or curl at the ends.
Keep in mind that installing composite decking boards over old wood framing is not a good idea. This is because the framing structure of composite decking needs to be exceptionally strong to better enhance the safety of the deck.
Does Composite Decking Slip When Wet?
Composite decking boards may become slippery when wet. But this is usually not a big problem. Painted and stained wood decks are more likely to slip than composite decks. If you want to minimize slipping, choose composite decking boards with a grooved surface instead of the fine wood grain look of composite boards. This will make the deck surface more grippy.
You can even mix two different-looking wood grains together. Put non-slip planks in high-traffic areas and the finer-grained composite decking boards on the rest of the deck.
Mold and Mildew on Composite Decks
Mold and mildew can grow on your composite decking boards if you don’t clean them properly, or if you live in a humid area. But mold and mildew won’t hurt capped composite decking. They’ll just make the deck look bad.
Composite decking has excellent water and mold resistance, so it usually doesn’t develop mold. However, organic debris that builds up on the surface of the deck can become moldy, which causes mold to form on composite decking. To prevent mold from forming on the deck surface, you should clean your composite deck regularly.
Cannot Paint Composite Decking Boards
Composite decking boards are manufactured with wood fibers, recycled plastics, and adhesives mixed in to prevent them from fading and requiring more maintenance. This means that if you want to change the color of your composite decking, it is not possible.
So, when you build your outdoor living space, choose a color you’ll love for years to come. Also, keep in mind that even high-quality composite decks lose some of their color over time, and darker colors are more likely to fade.
Lack of Solid Wood Look
Different people see this as both a pro and a con. Some people like the color and quirky look of solid wood, while others would prefer a smoother, more even look to composite decking.
Nonetheless, the color of composite decking boards is much more uniform than that of wood decks.
High Purchase Cost
The installation price of composite decking is another drawback. Many times, Composite decking boards are 15% to 25% more expensive than regular wood decks. And the price factor is something that many people will focus on when choosing a decking material.
However, it is important to note that composite decking lasts much longer than wood decking. It requires little to no maintenance, which saves homeowners a lot of money on maintenance costs. Therefore, when used for many years, the total cost of a composite deck will be less than the cost of a wood deck.
On the other hand, composite decks are more environmentally friendly than traditional wood decks. Wood decks require cutting down trees. Composite decks, on the other hand, are made from recycled materials. Therefore, composite decking is a more environmentally friendly option than wood.
Composite Decks Have Strict Installation Standards
When installing composite decking, there are usually more rules to follow than when installing stone, wood, and so on. For example, composite decking needs to be placed in an area with good air circulation and drainage. The keel or framing must be installed before the decking is laid.
In addition, the distance between each support point on the deck must be set as indicated. There must also be adequate space where the two decks meet. The considerations listed above are only a small sampling. We recommend that you read the installation instructions carefully to avoid problems caused by improper installation.
Composite Decks Can Cause Damage
Some composite decks are not very strong and may have been produced by some low-quality brands using cheap plastics and unreasonable formulations. Don’t forget that it is important to choose a good brand of composite decking.
EVODEK’s composite decking is made with an ever-developing, patented formula that maximizes the benefits of composite materials. It won’t crack with long-term use and comes with a 20+ year warranty, so you don’t have to worry about its quality.
How Can I Avoid Problems with Composite Decking?
Choose a Reputable Composite Decking Brand
In most cases, choosing the right composite decking product is more important than how to maintain it. EVODEK is a fairly well-known company in the industry that manufactures composite decking. It has a standard production line, full production development, quality testing methods, and quality assurance regulations.
Theoretically, EVODEK’s decking products can last 20 years or more. They work well for decks, patios, plazas, and boardwalks, both for large public projects and private areas. A comprehensive quality assurance system takes away your worries.
The Right Way to Install
Please install composite decking in a well-ventilated area and do not use a wood frame that does not provide adequate protection. Moisture damage is a major cause of problems with composite decking boards.
Water and rain can cause damage to the deck if it is not properly sealed. Decking can shift, crack, or split due to water damage. Please read the installation guidelines and warnings for decking installation carefully and follow them to the letter. For most brands, if you break the product by not following the installation guidelines, it may void the warranty.
Proper Use and Maintenance
Remember, everything breaks and loses its usefulness over time. The good news is that EVODEK’s high-quality decking has been used outdoors for more than 15 years and has received rave reviews from users around the world.
EVODEK gives you enough professional deck care guides so that you can spend just a little time enjoying the good life that composite decking brings to you in the long run. In addition, if you have any questions, we are happy to help.
How Do I Know Which Deck Is Best for You?
- Wood decks may need to be painted or stained frequently, but composite decks never need any sealants or finishes to be treated.
- Composite decking boards last longer and require less maintenance than wood decks.
- Wood decking is the most common deck finishing material. It can be stained or painted to make it weatherproof. One of their drawbacks is that the color may fade over time. For traditional decks, they are susceptible to insect damage. However, sealants or coatings can prevent this from happening.
- Finally, composite decking is more sturdy and durable than wood decking and works better in crowded areas.
In the end, your budget and lifestyle will determine the type of deck that is best for you. If you want a deck that doesn’t require much maintenance, composite decking may be the best choice.
If you can’t tolerate a deck that doesn’t have the look of solid wood, then go with a wood deck. Wood decks don’t last as long as composite decking boards, but there are treatments and maintenance methods that can help keep your deck safe.
Summary
When it comes to composite decking, you should keep these things in mind. Best composite decking has a lot of advantages, such as easy maintenance, long life, and a wide range of colors and styles to choose from. But it also has some problems.
Consider all the pros and cons carefully before choosing the right decking material. If you need more information about composite decking or have any other questions, please contact us. EVODEK’s service team is ready to help you!
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