Composite Decking – the low maintenance alternative

What is composite decking?

Composite decking is a man- made product gaining in popularity as a low-maintenance alternative to natural timbers. Typically made from recycled plastics (polyethylene or polypropylene) combined with a hardwood, the board is resistant to termites, rot, and mould and simply needs an occasional rinse off with water to clean.

Aesthetically, composites can look reasonably similar to natural timber boards and are usually available in a range of contemporary, easy to maintain tropical wood tones. Composites can vary in uniformity from consistent wood grain patterns to a unique, non-repeating colour and grain which will allow you to customise your individual look.

Long-term durability

Composite decking is considered to be lower in maintenance in contrast to timber decking. The blistering summers and cold, rainy winters of Australia can leave traditional timber boards splintered or faded if a sealer product is not regularly applied. The composite alternatives are easy to keep clean, and are fade and stain resistant to keep maintenance time low.

Invest in the best

Like all products on the market, while some composites are good, others are not.  The old adage “You get what you pay for” is very much applicable to a composite product.  At Timber Decking Supply Shed we recommend that you check with your supplier for the following product attributes:

• Strength – does the composite have a high Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) and Modulus of Rupture (MOR) to ensure it will not sag and flex between joists over time?

• Safe & Stable – is the composite slippery, especially when wet?

• Stain & Fade Resistant – is the composite resistant to everyday stains and contain a UV inhibitor to provide added colour retention.

• Moisture & Thermal Resistant – A good composite will have excellent moisture and thermal resistance – minimising problems commonly associated with     expansion and contraction.

• Colour & Grain – Do you want uniformity of grain or a non-repeating colour and grain appearance?

• Warranty – Does your composite have a warranty and for how long is the product     covered?  Will the composite need to be installed by a specialised installer to be covered?  Is the warranty transferrable or will it become void once the property is sold?

Composite decking has a number of advantages over traditional wood decking, although you need to ensure the product you choose is suitable for your needs. The Duralife composite decking provided by Timber Decking Supply Shed comes with a 25 year stain and fade warranty – the most comprehensive warranty on the market, meaning you can feel secure that even if your decking were to succumb to the effects of time, your warranty will cover it.

Contact Timber Decking Supply Shed in Perth today to discuss your decking needs and let us help you identify which option best suits that need.