Types of Composite Decking
Composite decking can be broken down into two major categories: composites that contain some wood and nonwood composites. Some composites contain a mixture of hardwood fragments along with plastics and other materials. Other composites are made entirely of plastics and vinyl. The popularity of composite decking is on the rise because composite decking requires less maintenance than wood decking. Does this Spark an idea?
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Polyethylene-Based Materials
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Polyethylene-based material is oil based and contains some wood. It also contains plastic and can be textured to look like wood. In fact, of all the composite materials for decks, this resembles wood the most. This material can expand or compress with the change of seasons and temperatures. As the material can be soft, it's not recommended to use for great spans or with beams that are spaced far apart. When building the deck, keep the beams on which the decking rests closer together.
Polypropylene-Based Materials
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Polypropylene-based materials consist of polypropylene as well as reclaimed hardwood lumber. These materials contain pigments that are designed to help the polypropylene-based composite decking resist fading. This type of composite decking is hardier than polyethylene-based materials and can withstand the stress of greater spans or beams spaced wider apart.
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Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)-Based Materials
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Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-based materials are made completely from plastics. The benefit of this material is that, unlike wood, it doesn't stain or absorb water. It also can be manufactured to resemble wood. Because this material is not as strong as wood or some of the composites containing wood, it's best to use the material with shorter spans. Using beams that are spaced closer together, as well as horizontal braces, is recommended.
Hollow Composite Materials
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Composite materials for decking can be hollow. A drawback of hollow composite decking is its appearance. It often looks man-made. Hollow composite decking can also be damaged more easily before it's installed. However, hollow composite materials are lighter and are less apt to expand or contract.
Solid Composite Materials
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Solid composite materials look more like wood. Because they are solid, they are stronger and difficult to damage. One major drawback is that it can expand and contract.
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