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Timber, or wood decking, can be used in numerous ways, for example to extend the living area around your house, as part of a garden landscape, or for around your pool. Deciding which type of timber to use can be rather intimidating if you are not clued up to what is available. Composite decking has become the fastest growing decking material for residential use in the last ten years and there are many reasons why. Let’s explore some of these reasons. What is Composite Timber? Composite timber is a material made from reclaimed wood products such as sawdust, wood fiber, and chips, mixed with a blend of recycled plastic products. The quality of the composite material depends on the type and characteristics of the raw materials used in the manufacturing process. These mixed ingredients ensure a strong and heavy wood that will not rot, does not warp, and does not need to be painted or sealed. When all these components are mixed by the manufacturers, pigments and preservatives are added. Different Types: Composite decking comes in two different forms, these are solid and hollow. Solid composite decking is heavier and looks more like real wood, whereas hollow composite decking has more of a man-made appearance. Solid decking will expand and contract depending on the temperature, whereas hollow decking will keep its shape. Pros and Cons Pros Composite decking is durable due to the combination of synthetic and organic materials, and one of the greatest benefits of choosing composite decking is longevity. Real timber will expand and contract depending on weather conditions, will rot eventually, and must be stained and oiled, whereas composite decking is low maintenance and can withstand severe weather conditions without any protection or treatment. Stains are added to the mixture during the manufacturing process, and this gives you the option to choose the shade and color of your decking. You will not have to worry about termites and other wood-eating bugs gnawing away at your beautiful patio deck. Splinters will also not be a problem. Composite decking is eco – friendly as it uses recycled plastic. Cons If you do decide to paint your deck, you will have to apply a fresh coat of paint every year or so. The use of plastic mixture within the composite deck means that the paint will not adhere to the decking as well as it would to solid wood decking. Composite timber is not structural so it cannot be used to construct your deck, and remember that you will have to treat the timber you use for structural purposes. Price is always a recognizable disadvantage when it comes to composite timber. However, this disadvantage needs to be weighed up against real wood, which might not cost as much, but has a higher maintenance and won’t last as long as composite timber will. Use these guidelines as a reference when making the decision of which type of wood you want to use for your patio deck, and always make sure that you are happy with the manufacturer. For more information on patio decks and decking in Cape Town, visit Envirodeck today.
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