Are Composite Decks Affected by Pool Chemicals?

Composite decks are reputed to be rot free, but it really depends on their composition.

Composite wood, composed of plastic and wood, is often promoted as being more resilient and less prone to rot and damage from the elements and substances such as pool chemicals, but if you are making a pool deck with composite wood, there is no guarantee the pool chemicals won't damage it.

Composition

Composite wood can be composed of new or recycled plastic, wood pulp, cellulose, recycled wood and virgin wood and plastic. According to Tim Carter of Ask the Builder, composite wood can contain up to 50 percent wood. The exact components of each type of composite wood varies from company to company.

Cause of Possible Damage

Some brands of composite wood can rot or be damaged by cleaning and pool chemicals because the wood in them can absorb water and expand and contract. The color also may fade or be damaged by pressure washers or chemicals if pool water sits on the deck for a long period of time.

Damage Prevention

A composite wood deck should be treated to prevent water and chemical damage, as well as rot, just like a solid wood deck, though some companies add a preservative to the decking to prevent rot and damage.

Product Selection

Check the composition of the decking material and choose a product that has more vinyl or plastic than wood if using it around a pool.

References

• Ask the Builder: Composite Decking
• Garden Structure: Composite Decking vs. Wood