By 2020, it’s estimated that the composite decking and railing market will be worth £2.2 billion. Arbordeck, a composite decking specialist, talks us through the many benefits of this useful building material.
Composite decking is created using a mix of wood and plastic. Usually, the wood featured in the decking is sawdust, wood chips or wood fibres. The plastic in the mix is either new or, in more environmentally friendly options, recycled.
This blend of wood and plastic results in a tough and durable end product. Composite decking is suitable for both residential and commercial use, offering a number of benefits for more than just the end consumer. In fact, composite decking makes the lives of landscaping professionals so much easier – here’s how:
Easy installation
Anyone who has installed traditional decking boards before will know the level of work involved. From cutting boards to size to sanding, wooden decking boards can be time-consuming to fit.
While there’s obviously a level of work required to install composite decking, it is often a lot simpler than fitting traditional boards. In many cases, the boards simply slide onto the supports and are fastened together using specially designed fasteners. This creates a screw-less finish, which often appeals to customers who are looking for picture-perfect decking.
Because the boards are man-made, they offer a more consistent quality than typical wooden boards. This eliminates issues with materials such as warping and naturally-occurring asymmetrical patterns that appear on wood, which could hold up a job or present problems further down the line. In addition, composite boards are often lighter than their wood counterparts and do not splinter, making them safer to work with and helping to create a more professional finish.
Environmentally friendly
In an increasingly green-conscious world, consumers are actively seeking out environmentally friendly businesses. Just like we boycott corporations with high wastage and pollutants, failing to embrace green practices gives your competitors an edge that could cost you the job all together.
Because composite decking boards are formed using the waste products of manufacturing with wood and recycled plastic elements, the boards are a better choice than traditional wooden decking boards. Of course, some boards are greener than others – Trex decking, for example, is made from 95 per cent recycled material and 1.5 billion recycled shopping bags.
By offering a more sustainable option, you give your customers choice while positioning your business and services in a positive light.
Time-saving
In some cases, you may be asked to stain the decking boards after installation. This is often a time-consuming process, as the grooved and gapped nature of decking makes it difficult to get an even coverage of paint or varnish.
Composite decking boards are available in a variety of colours, so your customers can choose the shade they require at the start of the decking installation. This eliminates the need to stain the boards, helping you to get the job done quicker.
In addition, as opposed to traditional decking boards, composite decking does not need to be sealed to make it waterproof. Their properties mean they will not warp or rot, which again saves time and provides a longer lasting, more professional finish. Because of its durability, the decking often comes with a longer warranty than traditional boards, although this varies between types and manufacturers.
With its many benefits, it’s unsurprising that customers are choosing composite decking for their outdoor space. This is set to grow in the coming years so, by offering this service you are able to tap into a new market. If you’re planning to expand your business, it’s well worth considering.
