Composite Decking – an Easy Choice
High-performance composite decking is a popular alternative to traditional wood decking.
Introduced in the 1990s, composite decking is a wood alternative that requires less maintenance and has a longer life than traditional wood decking. Over the long-term, it is less expensive than traditional decking materials. Readily available in the marketplace and not difficult to install, composite decking is worth considering for commercial and institutional building projects.
What is Composite Decking?
Composite decking is made up of recycled wood and plastic that would otherwise end up in landfills.
- Wood Particles – recycled sawdust, wood chips, wood fiber pieces
- Plastic Bags – recycled dry cleaning bags, sandwich bags, newspaper bags, grocery bags
Materials and Installation
Composite decking is manufactured by a variety of companies. Trex is one of the best-known manufacturers. Trex offers a large range of colors and components, including matching railings and fencing.
The composite wood decking and railing market exceeds 3 billion in sales. The product is readily available through carpentry contractors and at home centers nationwide.
The installation of composite decks is similar to that of traditional wood decks. Rough carpenters and deck builders typically install the product in much the same way as traditional wood products. Fasteners can be exposed or hidden so that only the boards are seen and not the metal fasteners.
We have specified composite decking on several projects including the Buccaneer Battle attraction at Six Flags Great America. The product was a good choice especially because it has a better slip resistance rating than smooth wood decking when wet.
Buccaneer Battle at Six Flags Great America
Benefits of Composite Decking
There are many benefits of composite decking versus traditional wood decks:
- Minimal maintenance: Clean with soap and water. No sanding, staining, painting or sealing
- More resistant to stains, scratches, termites, mold, mildew, and fading from sun exposure
- Longer lifespan
- Splinter-free finish that’s comfortable underfoot
- Many colors offered that reflect natural grains and can mimic the look of premium hardwoods
- Durable product with long manufacturer’s warranties – typically 25-year limited fade and stain warranty
- Environmentally friendly product due to extensive use of recycled components
Although the cost of installing a composite deck is initially higher than a wood deck, it is cheaper to own in the long run. Annual maintenance expenses for a traditional wood deck, such as sanding, painting, staining, and repairs can be high. When you factor in the time expended repairing/maintaining a traditional wood deck, you can see why composite decks are gaining in popularity.
Composite decking is a great solution for commercial and institutional projects. Consider using composite decking for your next project:
- Outdoor dining areas at restaurants
- Rooftop decks for apartment complexes
- Common outdoor areas for office buildings
- Outdoor break-out spaces for hotels and conference centers
For building owners who want an outdoor gathering area without the maintenance and replacement cost of traditional decks, composite decking is an easy choice.
