Should You Switch Out Your Wood Deck for Composite Decking?

8 April 2021
 Categories: Home & Garden, Blog

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Wood decking has been a staple in Australian households for decades on end, and this can be attributed to the effortless charm that it adds to any residence. However, aesthetics alone should not be the only characteristic you prioritise when installing decking. Although wood decks are undeniably beautiful, they come with a considerable amount of responsibility. From regular staining to maintain their appearance to protecting the material from rot and pest infestations, these decks are not the most convenient to own.

Fortunately, this is not the only option available to you. If you are not willing to compromise on the visual appeal of timber but do not want to be saddled with the arduous upkeep that comes with it, you may want to consider composite decking. Keep reading for a few of the reasons why you should switch out your wood deck for composite decking.

Composite decks are safer than their solid timber counterparts

Whether you have small kids or not, safety should be a priority in and around your home. And one thing that some homeowners do not realise about solid wood decking until it is too late is that it can be quite unsafe if it does not receive rigorous maintenance. Wood decks are highly susceptible to developing splinters. These splinters are inevitable for a couple of reasons. For starters, exposure to extreme temperature changes will cause the timber to crack, which results in splinters.

Moreover, if the wood deck is not sealed as regularly as it needs to be, the surface is exposed to Australia's scorching heat, and this will also result in splintering. Composite decking does not present this problem since it is an amalgam of timber fibres, resins and plastics and thus is not vulnerable to splinters.

Composite decks offer superior endurance than their solid timber counterparts

The second reason why you should switch out your timber deck for composite decking is for the superior durability offered by the latter. Admittedly, timber is sturdy. However, for it to retain its inherent strength, it will need stringent upkeep. Unless you have the time to dedicate hours on end on the care of your decking, you may want to consider a material that will still thrive without incessant maintenance.

Composite decking is that material. To begin with, this material is designed to be moisture-resistant. Hence, you do not have to worry about undue moisture damage that will necessitate ceaseless repairs to prevent decay. Secondly, composite decking is UV-resistant, so it will not fade prematurely and lose its aesthetic value.

To learn more, contact a supplier that carries composite decking.