Composite Decking

Composite Decking Installers near me

So what is composite decking, why should you chose it and is there any difference in composite decking installation compared to timber? And why is it becoming so popular across the UK? At Zest Decking we take the time to discuss the pros and cons with you and whilst composite may be the best decking choice for some people it may not be best for you. We'll understand what you're after - and if composite decking ticks the boxes for budget and aesthetics, we know it will tick the boxes for durability and low maintenance, which is why it is rapidly catching up timber decking as the first choice for decking in this country.

What is composite decking?

Composite decking is mostly made up of plastic polymers but this material is also combined with very fine wood fibres, almost powder like in size and a bonding agent, which combines the two materials. Most wood fibres used in composite decking come from recycled sources, as are a number of the polymers used making them a good environmental choice.

Since composite decking is a man made material which goes through a production process it means that some aspects of production can be altered or varied. This can be in terms of designs shown on the outer surface, it can also be in terms of the thickness and construction of the actual composite deck panels as some are solid whilst many others are hollow to some degree. The other variable is the ability to add difference dyes to the mix which means that much wider colour options are available from composite decking as apposed to timber decking although most composite decking focuses on shades of greys and browns since most people want there to be some resemblance to timber and these neutral colours blend quite naturally into a garden environment. That said there are those people who want their decking to be a showcase feature in the garden and blacks, whites, greens and redder browns can also be found.

Composite decking maintenance

The primary reason composite decking is chosen is that it requires little to no maintenance. Whilst you may not need to perform the same treatments as you would for timber it's not to say that composite decking keeps itself clean. Like any outdoor or indeed indoor items which are regularly used the build of dirt and debris is inevitable, which is especially the case with any outdoor structure.

In the same way that you will choose to clean you car, cleaning your composite decking will simply mean that your decking will continue to look as though it has recently been installed. Even though, decking should be installed to provide a subtle run off for water, there may still be areas where a small build up of water may occur which itself will attract addition dirt and grime. Simply brushing off will minimise any build up of dirt if left for the water to simply dry out.

If you perhaps have left attending to your decking over the winter months and dirt, bird droppings and leaves have accumulated on your composite decking maintenance will simply be a gentle pressure wash, or brushing with some mild detergent water which will quickly bring up your composite decking to its former self.

Cost of Composite Decking versus Timber Decking

The biggest difference between the cost of composite decking versus timber decking is the initial upfront installation cost with composite being more expensive than timber. However,  this cost differential is continuing to close as timber prices continue to rise at quite alarming rates and more entrants are joining the composite deck ranks where this healthy competition is keeping prices more stable.

However, when discussing 'lifetime costs' then the cost picture does change over time. The amount and rate however will vary as to how much cost you place on your own time, assuming you would carry out your own timber maintenance work. There are no real 'material' costs associated with cleaning composite decking and since no treatment is required there are no costs here. For timber application of 'deck oils or other protection treatments have a pound costs so over the course of 10-20 years this adds up. The other more variable costs is the time spent apply these treatments year after year. If you decide to pay a garden service company to do this for you then you will know the exact cost but it you decide to do this yourselves what price do you put on your time - £10 or £20 per hour? What else would you have preferred to be doing with this time? Clearly the reason you have decking installed is to enjoy your outdoor area rather than creating more maintenance jobs for the garden. It is this 'opportunity cost' which is the greatest factor for most people who chose to go down the composite route and stretch there budget a little more to have composite decking installed.

Timber Decking verses Composite Decking

We've already covered some of the cost comparisons so what other areas are there to compare between the two most popular types of decking?

One if longevity, which also factors into costs. When selecting timber decking the lowest cost option is pressure treated timber decking. However, this will need treating on a regular basis if you are to get this type of decking to last to around 15 years. Even though composite decking doesn't need treating many manufacturers will give 20 year guarantees to there materials - some even going as far as 30 years. So if you are planning on staying in your current home for life, then you may have to replace your timber decking twice, whilst your composite decking is only changed once. This durability with minimal maintenance has great appeal for people in their forever homes.

Another comparison factor is the environmental side. Whilst plastic has had, and still has some poor publicity some people will simply want to use natural resources such as wood. fortunately most wood used in timber decking is responsibly and sustainably sourced so this can be seen as renewals. However, since much of the plastic used in composite decking and the timber is also from recycled resources this difference is less marked. Also factoring in the lifetime aspect - not having to replace your composite decking as frequently as timber clouds this 'carbon footprint' debate further.

At a very basic level some people simply like the natural look and feel of wood. Whilst composites are being designed to have a wood effect to close this gap, they will struggle to replicate the feel of natural wood underfoot.

We hope we've covered a number of points to consider when making your choice which will not doubt end up being based on budget and personal preference.