The Disadvantages of Composite Decking
- Composite decking is typically composed of plastic and wood fiber.deck with a view image by Bruce Shippee from Fotolia.com
Composite decking has been rising in popularity since its widespread introduction to the US consumer market in the 1990s. Composite decking consists of two or more pressed materials, typically wood fiber and plastic, that are molded into common deck forms like planks, posts and pickets. Composites are resistant to rot, but they do have several disadvantages. - Unlike traditional wood decks, composite decking lacks structural strength and will sag without reinforcement.
- Composite decking weakens with exposure to UV rays and will fade significantly when exposed to sunlight. If sun exposure patterns are uneven, discoloration will be more obvious.
- Cost differences vary depending on the region, but composite decking may be as much as 60 to 70 percent more expensive than conventional decking.
- Composite decking is much heavier than pressure-treated wood, making it harder to handle.
- Many people feel composite decking looks unnatural and less appealing than conventional wood decking.
- The material is comparatively soft and scratches and gouges easily. It can be marred by animal claws, foot traffic and scraping from chairs.
- Unlike wood decks, which can be sanded and repainted or re-stained, composite decking will start to show signs of wear after five years and will need to be replaced rather than renewed.
- Even after staining and sealing composite decking, the material will still absorb liquids. Juice, wine, sodas and other colored liquids may cause stains that cannot be sanded out or removed.
