Wood composite is a durable and ecological alternative to natural wood. Composite boards are used, among others, for the construction of porches, decks, terraces and other outdoor spaces. They are highly resistant to extreme weather conditions and are not biodegradable, so they don’t need to be impregnated. A high quality composite material does not absorb water and does not deform under the influence of moisture, so it can be used around water reservoirs. Its surface is durable and resistant to abrasion and it doesn’t flake or peel off. It’s a great option for any porch or deck for multiple reasons.
How a Wood Composite Is Made
Wood composite is a mixture of wood or bamboo flour or fibers and plastic such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), where also certain additives can be found: dyes, antioxidants and stabilizers, or UV filters. The content of the natural material in a good quality composite is usually around 50% but can range from 35 to 80% (a high amount of natural raw material increases water absorption and reduces the lifespan of the material).
The best composite is the one with a PVC base. It is the hardest and most durable combination. It does not change its appearance for many years and is classified as non-flammable. Depending on the type and manufacturer, it is usually covered by a 10-25 year warranty against rot and fungi infestation.
Composites containing HDPE and PP have lower density, and thus poorer properties, although some high quality products can be found among them, too. These include, among others, HDPE-based boards covered with a polymer coating, which protects against weather conditions and extends the life of the material so much that it can be even covered by a 25-year warranty (the warranty for the best quality HDPE and PP-based boards usually does not exceed 10 years). In this material group there are also many cheaper products of lower quality. Some of them may crumble under the influence of frost, and deform during hot summer days. They are also more prone to scratching and fade faster. Moreover, products of unknown origin may contain heavy metals, which are hazardous to the environment and humans.
Wood composite is resistant to heat, but its color may brighten just a little bit under the influence of UV rays. Composite wood is a material that heats up quite easily, so decks located on the south side can get really hot and it may be necessary to install a roof.
If you’re thinking of investing composite decking for your custom deck or porch construction, but are still not sure whether it’s the right choice for you, contact the professional Chicago deck builders at Branico Construction, Inc. Tell us about what you’re looking for and we’ll do our best to help.
Types of composite boards
The dimensions of composite decking boards are similar to natural wooden ones. Most companies offer wood composite boards in 12′, 16′ and 20′ lengths. The width varies depending on the manufacturer and style and can range from 4 to 6 inches wide. They are precisely profiled at an angle on one side, allowing two pieces to be joined precisely together to make a single flat surface. Composite decking boards are usually grooved and brushed, making them look more natural, but also very smooth. They can imitate real wood in color (sometimes with a “natural” grain pattern), but they are also available in various other colors. When buying composite decking boards, you should immediately purchase the exact amount needed for the entire deck or porch, as elements from different batches may slightly differ in shade.
Composite boards most often have a chamber structure, which makes them lighter, but less durable (although good-quality chambered boards may be sometimes more sturdy than full ones of poor quality). As chambers can be seen on their cross-sections, the edges must be masked with plugs. Full boards on the other hand can be freely cut, just like wooden ones. They will work well in places where the surface is in contact with water, for example around a swimming pool.
Wood Composite Protection
Composite boards, like any other material used outdoors, are exposed to dirt. It often accumulates in the grooves, which is why the surface of your deck or porch should be cleaned with a bristle brush every now and then. Regular cleaning is very important to keep your outdoor surfaces looking good and actually keep them protected and well-cared for.
However, sometimes a thorough deep clean is needed, which is why when cleaning composite decking boards, we can use a high-pressure cleaner. Power washing gives your deck’s surface a deep-clean that will remove dirt, stains, and mildew that have accumulated after being exposed to the elements. Unfortunately, however, if done incorrectly, power washing can harm the surface of the composite wood boards, leaving marks, or causing other types of damage. That’s why it’s important to hire specialists who offer professional deck and porch power washing and are well-versed with different kinds of deck surface cleaning processes.
For professional deck pressure washing – call Branico today. Our expert Chicago deck contractors will surely remove dirt and grime from your composite wood surfaces and make it look new again.
It’s also worth remembering that composite wood quite easily absorbs grease and coloring substances, such as red wine or tomato sauce, so stains should be removed on a regular basis so that they do not penetrate deep into the boards.
Composite decks get lighter over time and this is a natural process. The biggest changes in color occur in the sun, so if part of the surface is well lit and other parts always remain in the shade, the differences between them may be more noticeable, especially on a lower quality composite. To prevent uneven color change, it is worth rearranging furniture and other moveable elements from time to time.
For professional help with your deck or porch construction, contact our deck and porch builders today –(708) 268-5405 . We specialize in the construction of porches, decks, and balconies made of high-quality wood.