Composite decking has earned its place as a popular choice for homeowners seeking an appealing, durable, and low-maintenance outdoor living space. Despite its growing popularity, a number of myths and misconceptions still exist around this modern and innovative material. Clear Choice Custom Decks, a locally-owned company in Michigan, specializes in creating one-of-a-kind outdoor living spaces, from custom decks and swimming pools to concrete and pavers projects, with expertise in composite decking materials.
In this enlightening article, we’ll debunk some of the top myths about composite decking and set the record straight on its performance, maintenance, design options, and more. Equipped with the facts, homeowners will be better informed when choosing the right decking material for their unique outdoor spaces.
Join us as we bust these common myths and uncover the truth about the benefits, capabilities, and potential drawbacks of composite decking, brought to you by the professionals at Clear Choice Custom Decks.
Busting the Top Myths about Composite Decking
Myth 1: Composite Decking Is Too Expensive
One common misconception about composite decking is that it’s prohibitively expensive when compared to traditional wood options. While it’s true that the initial upfront cost of composite decking can be higher than wood, it’s crucial to consider the long-term expenses associated with maintenance, repair, and replacement.
Over time, the costs to refinish, repair, and replace damaged wooden planks add up, while composite decking requires far less maintenance. In fact, a study conducted by Virginia Tech and the USDA Forest Products Laboratory found that, over a 20-year period, the cost of maintaining a wood deck can outweigh the initial price difference between wood and composite materials.
Ultimately, the lifetime cost of composite decking can be comparable to or even lower than wood when considering maintenance and replacement expenses.
Myth 2: Composite Decking Looks Fake
Early composite decking materials were often criticized for their unnatural appearance, leading to the myth that all composite decks look like cheap plastic. However, modern composite decking has come a long way in terms of design aesthetics, now offering a wide range of colors, textures, and finishes that closely mimic the natural beauty of real wood.
Many composite brands, like Trex, provide realistic wood grain patterns and color variations for an authentic appearance. Furthermore, with enhanced customization options, such as matching railings, lighting systems, and accessories, composite decking now allows homeowners to create a truly unique and visually appealing outdoor living space.
Myth 3: Composite Decking Is Less Durable Than Wood
Some homeowners mistakenly believe that composite decking is less durable and more prone to damage than traditional wood options. However, this myth couldn’t be further from the truth. Composite materials are specifically designed to resist common decking issues such as rot, warping, insect damage, and splintering.
Constructed from a blend of wood fibers and plastic, composite decking possesses a unique combination of properties that ensure it stands the test of time. Many composite decking brands, including Trex, are backed by a 25-year limited warranty or longer, guaranteeing their durability and performance for years to come.
Myth 4: Composite Decking Is Hard to Maintain
Another myth surrounding composite decking is that it’s just as difficult to maintain as wood. In reality, composite decking offers a significant advantage in terms of maintenance requirements when compared to traditional wood. Unlike wood decking, which typically requires regular staining, painting, and sealing to protect it from weathering, rot, and insect damage, composite decking is engineered to resist these problems with minimal upkeep.
In most cases, composite decking only requires occasional cleaning with soap and water to maintain its appearance. This low-maintenance benefit is a key factor driving the popularity of composite materials among homeowners seeking to spend more time enjoying their outdoor spaces and less time on upkeep.
Myth 5: Composite Decking Is Too Hot to Walk on
Some homeowners have concerns about composite decking getting too hot underfoot, especially during the summer months. While it’s true that composite decking does have the potential to become warmer than wood, it is important to consider multiple factors, such as the specific composite material, color selection, and climate.
Darker-colored composite decking tends to absorb more sunlight and consequently feel warmer underfoot, while lighter colors generally remain cooler. Choosing a composite deck color that complements your home while minimizing heat absorption is a crucial consideration when building your outdoor living space.
Furthermore, various composite decking brands now offer heat-resistant technologies to mitigate this concern, ensuring a comfortable surface temperature during hot weather. By taking these factors into account, homeowners can enjoy their composite decks even during the warmest summer months.
Myth 6: Composite Decking Isn’t Environmentally Friendly
A common belief is that composite decking is less eco-friendly than wood due to its use of plastic materials. However, this myth overlooks the fact that many composite decking manufacturers prioritize environmentally conscious practices.
Many leading composite brands, such as Trex, source their plastic materials from recycled items like shopping bags and detergent bottles, preventing these plastics from ending up in landfills. Additionally, the wood fibers used in composite decking are often sourced from reclaimed or recycled wood products, reducing the need for deforestation.
Transform Your Outdoor Living Space with Clear Choice Custom Decks
Understanding the truth about composite decking is essential for making well-informed decisions regarding your outdoor living space. Composite decking materials offer numerous benefits over traditional wood, including reduced maintenance, durability, and increased design options. With environmentally responsible manufacturing practices, these innovative materials provide an appealing and sustainable solution for homeowners.
As experts in creating one-of-a-kind outdoor spaces, the skilled team at Clear Choice Custom Decks is well-equipped to guide you through the selection, design, and construction of your dream composite deck.
Dedicated to providing unparalleled craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, our locally owned and operated company proudly serves Michigan homeowners. Get in touch with Clear Choice Custom Decks today and discover how we can bring your vision for a beautiful, long-lasting composite deck to life.