Synthetic Wood Deck

If you're dreaming of a beautiful outdoor space without the hassle of traditional wood maintenance, synthetic wood decking might be your perfect solution. This innovative material combines the aesthetic appeal of natural wood with the durability and low upkeep of synthetic materials, making it an increasingly popular choice for homeowners.

With a variety of styles and colors available, you can easily find a synthetic wood deck that fits your vision. While the initial investment can range from $3 to $10 per square foot, the long-term savings on maintenance and replacement make it a smart choice for your wallet and your lifestyle. Discover how synthetic wood decking can transform your outdoor area into a stylish, functional space that stands the test of time.

Overview Of Synthetic Wood Deck

Synthetic wood decking, or composite decking, serves as a modern outdoor flooring solution that combines durability and aesthetic appeal. You can expect a superior product that resists warping, fading, and splintering compared to traditional wood. This material typically blends wood fibers with various forms of plastic, which enhances its longevity and appearance.

Components

Composite decking boards consist of a well-defined mix of materials:

• Wood Fibers: Derived from reclaimed or recycled wood sources, such as wood flour, these fibers provide strength and a natural feel.
• Polymers: High-performance, recycled polymers like polyethylene (HDPE or LDPE), polypropylene (PP), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) contribute to the product's durability and resistance to moisture and insects.
• Additives: Ingredients like colorants, ultraviolet inhibitors, and borate preservatives improve performance and longevity, ensuring that your deck remains vibrant and functional for years.

1. Traditional Composite Decking: This type mimics the look of wood while offering enhanced resistance to weathering and splintering. You can find various styles and colors to match your outdoor design.
2. Capped Composite Decking: A layer of protective materials encapsulates the core, providing additional defense against stains, moisture, and fading. This type often requires less maintenance compared to uncapped options.
3. Polymer Decking: Made entirely from synthetic materials, polymer decking offers maximum resistance to mold, mildew, and stains. It comes in a range of colors and styles, allowing for customization to suit your preferences.

Benefits Of Synthetic Wood Deck

Synthetic wood decking, known as composite decking, offers numerous advantages that make it a smart choice for outdoor spaces. Explore the key benefits below.

Durability And Longevity

Composite decking exhibits exceptional durability and longevity. Its composition of wood fibers and plastics makes it resistant to rot, warping, and insect damage. Unlike traditional wood, composite materials don’t expand or contract significantly with weather changes, reducing warping and splitting risks.

Composite decks withstand severe weather conditions, including UV exposure, without fading or degrading. They resist mold and decay, contributing to a notable lifespan of 20 to 25 years. This lifespan far exceeds that of traditional wood decks, which often require replacement every 10 to 15 years.

Maintenance And Care

One of the primary advantages of synthetic wood decking lies in its low-maintenance requirements. Unlike wood decks that demand regular sealing, staining, and treatments, composite decking only needs occasional cleaning with soap and water. This ease of care saves time, effort, and costs associated with maintenance.

Types Of Synthetic Wood Decking

Synthetic wood decking includes various types, each offering distinct features and benefits. Understanding these types helps you make an informed decision for your outdoor space.

Composite Decking

Composite decking consists of a blend of wood fibers and plastic polymers, creating a durable and attractive option. This decking comes in two main forms:

• Solid Composite Decking: Solid boards are heavy and highly durable, making them suitable for permanent installations like swimming pool decks and walkways. While they offer excellent strength, their weight necessitates extra help during installation. Extreme weather may also lead to warping.
• Hollow Composite Decking: Hollow boards are lightweight and easier to handle, often utilized for applications like cladding and siding. These boards require caps or fascia boards to cover their edges, providing a finished look. Hollow decks, however, exhibit reduced impact resistance compared to their solid counterparts.

PVC Decking

PVC decking is a synthetic option made entirely from polyvinyl chloride. This type offers several advantages:

• Water Resistance: PVC decking protects against moisture, making it ideal for areas prone to water exposure. It eliminates concerns about rot and mold.
• Color Retention: PVC decking maintains its color over time, resisting fading from UV exposure more effectively than composite materials.
• Low Maintenance: Routine cleaning with soap and water suffices for upkeep, as PVC decking requires no sealing or painting.

These attributes make PVC decking a competitive choice, especially in humid environments.

Environmental Impact Of Synthetic Wood Deck

Manufacturing Process and Materials

Synthetic wood decks, or composite decking, consist of a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic polymers, often sourced from industrial and consumer waste. This blend significantly reduces waste in landfills. However, the manufacturing process poses environmental concerns. Producing plastic components, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene, releases harmful toxins into the environment, affecting air, land, and water quality, and contributing to pollution and health issues.

Waste Reduction and Forest Preservation

Composite decking offers notable environmental benefits through its recycled materials. By using these materials, it decreases the volume of waste in landfills, promoting waste reduction and forest preservation. Traditional wood decks often require cutting down trees, which impacts ecosystems. In contrast, choosing synthetic wood decks helps protect forests while still providing an attractive option for outdoor spaces.

Installation Process

Installing a synthetic wood deck involves precise steps to ensure a strong and attractive structure. Follow these guidelines for a successful installation.

Preparing the Site

• Clear the area of grass, plants, and debris. If installing on concrete, ensure it's clean and free of cracks or uneven spots. For timber decking, remove the top layer of soil and compact the ground.
• Check for drainage issues. Install drainage tiles or create a slight slope to direct water runoff away from your home.

Installing the Deck Frame

• Use pressure-treated lumber for the frame, resisting moisture and decay. Install deck joists according to the manufacturer's recommendations, typically spacing them every 12 to 16 inches.
• Secure the joists with deck screws, ensuring they're level and firmly attached. Include blocking between joists to prevent twisting over time.

Installing the Decking Boards

• Lay the synthetic wood decking boards perpendicular to the joists. Ensure the boards are spacing evenly to allow for expansion.
• Secure the boards using the recommended fasteners, typically hidden for a clean look. Check alignment frequently to maintain a consistent aesthetic.

• Trim any overhanging boards for a neat finish. Use a saw for accuracy.
• Install skirting boards or railings to enhance safety and aesthetics. Ensure all components meet local building codes.

Following these steps will lead to a sturdy, visually appealing, and long-lasting synthetic wood deck.

Conclusion

Choosing synthetic wood decking can transform your outdoor space into a stunning area that requires minimal upkeep. With its impressive durability and long lifespan, you can enjoy your deck without the constant worry of maintenance. The variety of styles and colors available allows you to customize your space to fit your personal taste.

Additionally, the eco-friendly aspects of composite materials contribute to a more sustainable choice for your home. By opting for synthetic wood, you're not only enhancing your property but also making a responsible decision for the environment. Embrace the benefits of synthetic wood decking and create an inviting outdoor area that stands the test of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is synthetic wood decking?

Synthetic wood decking, also known as composite decking, is a modern alternative to traditional wood. It combines wood fibers and plastic, providing a durable, low-maintenance option for outdoor spaces. This material mimics the appearance of wood while offering enhanced resistance to rot, fading, and insects.

What are the benefits of synthetic wood decking?

The benefits of synthetic wood decking include its durability, low maintenance, aesthetic appeal, and resistance to weather conditions and pests. It enjoys a long lifespan of 20 to 25 years, making it a cost-effective choice that requires minimal upkeep compared to traditional wood.

How much does synthetic wood decking cost?

The initial investment in synthetic wood decking typically ranges from $3 to $10 per square foot, depending on the type and brand. While it may cost more upfront than traditional wood, long-term savings on maintenance and replacement make it a smart financial choice.

What types of synthetic wood decking are available?

There are several types of synthetic wood decking, including traditional composite, capped composite, and PVC decking. Each offers unique features, such as enhanced weather resistance and low maintenance. Solid and hollow forms are available in composite decking, catering to different needs and preferences.

Is synthetic wood decking environmentally friendly?

Synthetic wood decking is generally environmentally friendly, as it is made from recycled materials like wood fibers and plastic. This helps reduce waste and preserve forests. However, the manufacturing process can release harmful toxins, so it's important to consider its overall environmental impact.

How do you install synthetic wood decking?

Installing synthetic wood decking involves several key steps: preparing the site by clearing the area, constructing a sturdy frame with pressure-treated lumber, and securing the decking boards using hidden fasteners. It's vital to follow local building codes and ensure proper alignment for a strong structure.