Nothing says comfortable backyard time like a lovely deck.
Over the years, more and more homeowners have opted for a pleasantly cozy deck suitable for cooling off or just hanging around.
While wood decks are all the rage decades ago, nowadays, many homeowners are considering composite decks over traditional lumber decks.
According to a study by The Freedonia Group, the demand for decking is projected to increase at 1.3% annually. The demand paves the way for companies like TimberTech to offer high-quality decking materials.
Nevertheless, residential renovations largely take part in this expansion. It comes as no surprise as modern composite decks are flexible and durable.
You could host a Sunday barbeque for your friends or have some good-old fashion group games. This can easily be achieved with the right deck of choice and the craftsmanship of reliable deck builders.
So, if you are contemplating the installation or renovation of your deck, stick around to find out why a composite deck could be your best choice.
What Is a Composite Deck?
A composite deck is made of a combination of materials, primarily wood, and plastic. It is best known among homeowners as a durable alternative for lumber or traditional wood decking.
Furthermore, it requires less maintenance which makes it a convenient choice.
You may recognize a composite deck board as a wood-like material as most boards are patterned to imitate the natural looks of a traditional wood deck. But, with other materials in the mixture, it goes against the disadvantages of pure wood, such as decays, rots, and other damages.
Composite deck boards are meticulously made through a co-extrusion process where wood fibers, sawdust, and polyethylene polymers are combined under high temperatures to create a resilient and sturdy core material.
In most cases, a polymeric cap is wrapped around the core. Finally, the mixture is finished with the co-extrusion of other materials and pigments specialized in preventing damages to the deck.
Pros of Composite Deck
The benefits of composite decking span from low maintenance requirements to a wide variety of colors and patterns you can choose from.
To top it all, composite decks come with a warranty that protects your investment.
Take a closer look at these advantages to help you decide if a composite deck is for you.
- Durable
Composite deck materials are designed to last for decades. The boards and rails are water and stain-resistant. And they don’t harbor molds and pests that could damage the deck.
- Customizable
When you go for a composite deck, you might be surprised by how flexible the materials are. You get plenty of options when it comes to designs and patterns.
Moreover, you can also combine or rearrange the patterns, especially if you’re going for tiled boards.
- Requires Low Maintenance
It is far easier to clean and keep a composite deck away from damages than a wood deck.
Primarily, the raw materials involved in a composite deck can sustain various damaging threats. Furthermore, the deck itself is protected from fading.
- Prevents Common Deck Injuries
Splintering can occur in wood decks causing injuries to your friends and family members.
During rainy days, the dangers of the deck can increase as it tends to become slippery.
In the case of a composite deck, injuries from slips or splinters can be avoided as the materials are compact and textured enough to protect you and your family.
- Provides an Array of Natural Colors
If you already have a vision or an inspiration, perhaps with what you want your deck to look like, chances are you will have more success achieving that look with a composite deck.
TimberTech, for example, offers a variety of rustic choices when it comes to colors and patterns.
So, if you still want that natural wood aesthetic, you can still have it and with added benefits on the side.
- Sustainable and Environmentally friendly
One of the best qualities of a composite deck is that it’s ecologically sustainable.
The raw materials used in making parts of the composite deck are recyclable. Therefore, if you choose to have this type of deck, you are taking part in saving the environment.
Cons of Composite Deck
Not everything is perfect – and that includes the composite deck.
Despite its promising benefits, there are several disadvantages when you go for composite materials instead of wood.
Nonetheless, these cons are also easily mitigated by choosing the right products and deck contractor, like TNT Home Improvements of course.
Check out some of the cons you can prepare for if you plan to have a composite deck.
- Pricier Than Traditional Wood
Composite decking is pricier than the traditional wood deck. Mainly, the price is due to the quality and the intricate process of making the composite materials.
Nevertheless, you regain the amount you invest on a composite deck with its durability that lasts for a long time.
- Lacks the Natural Aesthetic of Real Wood
Several materials try to mimic the natural beauty of wood but fail to do so.
A lumber deck sanded and stained with bucolic colors is always pleasing to the eye.
Although a composite deck is only partially wood, the likelihood of still achieving the “wood-like” look is still high with the right materials. If you go for TimberTech, this won’t be a problem.
- Needs Better Frame Structure
The composite deck is heavier than the wood deck. As a result, you will have to potentially add more joists to the structure, and physically moving the materials to the deck location will be that much more work.
So, if you’re planning to have a do-it-yourself project with your composite deck, it may cost you more time and energy.
You can always consult and seek the services of professional deck builders like TNT Home Improvements.
- Hotter Temperature
Composite materials can absorb heat, making your deck a bit hot when it’s sunny. That’s why it’s crucial to choose the right location for your composite deck.
Avoid placing it in areas hit by direct sunlight.
Another option is to talk to an expert here at TNT about a deck cover as well.
How Long Do Composite Decks Last?
Composite decks can last for 25 to 30 years. On the other hand, wood decks are known to have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.
The longevity of composite decks is credited to the type of raw materials included in its co-extrusion process. In addition, it is highly durable, which makes it suitable for areas with harsh weather conditions.
Does a Composite Deck Get Slippery When Wet?
Composite decks are generally not slippery when wet. Or at least not as slick as a wood deck.
With TimberTech decking composite products, the materials have an anti-slip component that minimizes slipping injuries when the board is wet.
For example, its 4-sided capped composite collections are textured to mimic wood and provide a hand-scraped texture adding friction against water.
Is a Composite Deck Worth the Money?
Yes, a composite deck is worth the money you invest. You don’t simply get to have a durable and high-quality deck; you will also enjoy its textured and aesthetically pleasing look as well.
However, there are still instances wherein homeowners are disappointed by how their composite decks are built. The expectations aren’t met, and the result diminishes the comfort and fun supposedly brought by the deck.
That’s why it is of utmost importance to choose the right decking products and employ deck builders who provide nothing less than quality services.
If you’re living in the Loveland, Colorado area and looking for licensed professionals to help you renovate or build your deck, then let TNT Home Improvements come build your dream deck.
This locally-based company only uses the best decking products like TimberTech to give you a cozy and lavish-looking composite deck.
Conclusion
To build the composite deck of your dreams, don’t settle for less.
A comfortable and well-built deck can be your haven within your home, and nothing can put a price on that.
Savor the benefits of a composite deck and avoid the disadvantages by hiring professional deck builders who know the best materials in the industry.If you are located in the Northern Colorado/ Southern Wyoming area, then give us a call today at 970-663-2868 or visit the deck services page and fill out the contact form to make an appointment to discuss your next home improvement project.