Issues With Composite Decking
Composite decking, an "artificial lumber" consisting of wood flour, cellulose and polyethylene plastic, uses recycled materials to create a consistent, splinter-resistant building material. Like other materials, however, it has its share of issues that builders must recognize and cope with. Does this Spark an idea?
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Sturdiness
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Despite the claims of some composite decking manufacturers that their products will never deteriorate from rot, composite decking can fall prey to decay if it does not include a preservative agent. According to the Ask the Builder website, the plastic component of the decking cannot uniformly protect the wood and cellulose components from exposure to moisture.
Handling
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Composite decking can prove more difficult to work with than other building materials, according to Backyard America. Different brands and types of composite decking come with different limitations. Some products cannot withstanding nailing, while others require predrilled screw holes. Some metals can stain composite decking, but builders can avoid this problem by using stainless steel fastening components.
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Cost
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Composite decking costs more than common organic building materials, such as pressure-treated wood. Backyard America recommends that builders resort to regular treated lumber in constructing framing, to bring construction costs down.
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