Within the last few years, composite has become a product not just for decking boards. It can be used on windows, doors and many other building materials.
In this article, we will explain the positives and negatives when it comes to composite and timber decking boards.
What are composite decking boards?
If you have not heard of composite decking boards, then they are made of a simple process of mixing plastics and woods.
The wood ingredients are chippings or sawdust that are melted and compressed to form a decking board. There are many different sizes, colours and effects.
This new widely used material is hardy and lasts an extremely long time.
Composite vs. Wooden Decking Boards?
When deciding which material to use it boils down to costs!
Yes, composite decking boards are easily twice as expensive when comparing the price rate to hardwood and softwood boards.
Composite decking boards
Composite boards come in a rainbow of colours, effects and sizes.
Another point to make is that composite decking boards are easily maintained and will last for the foreseeable future.
- Composite boards have a guarantee of over 25 years
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Reliable for long term use
- Many colours and effects available
- Environmentally friendly
- Wooden grain and standard colours
- Negative; Can become discoloured from the sun and elements
- Negative; Will cost considerably more than timber/wood boards
Wooden decking boards
Wooden boards have been the material of choice for many years; the majority of decking installations in the UK are timber.
Although wooden boards look good at first, they will deteriorate at a quicker rate when compared to composite decking boards.
They need constant upkeep and will only be guaranteed for 10-years only if it’s hardwood.
Although composite decking boards are more expensive, they are environmentally friendly because less slow-growing hardwood trees are being cut down to provide decking boards.
Conclusion
Wooden boards are useful if you do not have a huge budget.
But if you’re going to create a space, the whole family can enjoy that stands the test of time then Composite decking boards are the new long-lasting material.
In the next few years, we hope the price of this fancy new material will come down in price and even out once it becomes more mainstream.
Happy Decking 😉