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Types of Composite Decking

Anton White
Anton White
January 2024
Anton White

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Embarking on the journey to select the perfect composite decking for your outdoor haven can be both exciting and a tad overwhelming. With a myriad of types of composite decking available, each boasting its unique features and benefits, it's crucial to navigate these choices wisely.

In this guide, we'll delve into the various types of composite decking – from the robust solid composite to the innovative capped options, and even the sleek grooved varieties.

We'll unravel the complexities of each type, discussing their benefits, maintenance needs, and suitability for different environments.

Whether you're envisioning a cosy backyard retreat or a grand outdoor entertaining space, understanding these options is the first step towards creating your dream deck.

What this article covers:

Types of Composite Decking

Composite decking is one of the best outdoor flooring options for anyone looking to create a durable, low-maintenance outdoor space.

It combines the best of both worlds: the natural beauty of wood and the long-lasting qualities of synthetic materials. Let's look at the different types available.

composite decking types

Hollow Composite Decking

Hollow composite decking, like our Natura Grooved Composite Decking, is lighter and often more cost-effective than solid decking. It's designed with hollow channels that reduce weight and material usage.

This type is easier to handle and install, making it a great choice for DIY enthusiasts.

Another big upside to hollow composite decking is its affordability. It's cheaper than solid composite decking, which makes it a versatile option for projects on a budget.

Solid Composite Decking

Solid composite decking resembles traditional wood. Made from a blend of wood fibres and plastics, it's heavier and denser, offering strength and stability, but making it less versatile.

It can also be prone to expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.

Uncapped Composite Decking

Uncapped composite decking is the original form of composite materials. It's durable and offers the natural look of wood, but it requires more maintenance to protect against mould, mildew, and fading. It's a budget-friendly option for those who don't mind a bit of upkeep.

If you're looking for high-quality uncapped composite decking, we recommend our Classic Grooved Composite Decking.

Capped Composite Decking

Capped composite decking features a protective polymer shell that guards against fading, staining, and scratching. It's more resistant to the elements and requires less maintenance than uncapped decking.

This type is ideal for those looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution. Our Luxxe Woodgrain Composite Decking is the perfect example of this; The full encapsulation technology used during production protects it from weathering and fading.

composite decking type

Grooved Composite Decking

Grooved composite decking boards have grooves along the sides for hidden fasteners. This creates a sleek, nail-free look for your deck. It's perfect for a modern, clean aesthetic but requires compatible fastening systems.

Ungrooved Composite Decking

Ungrooved composite decking, such as woodgrain composite decking, is designed with a smooth edge and is typically fastened with nails or screws. This traditional installation method is straightforward but can leave visible screws on the deck surface, affecting the overall look.

Benefits of Composite Decking

Composite decking offers numerous advantages over traditional wood decking. Here are some key benefits:

Durability And Longevity

Crafted from a fusion of wood fibres and recycled plastics, composite decking is engineered to resist the common downfalls of natural wood.

Unlike its wooden counterpart, composite decking is impervious to fading, staining, and scratching, maintaining its pristine appearance year after year.

It's also immune to warping, cracking, or splintering, which are frequent issues with traditional wood, especially under fluctuating weather conditions.

This resilience ensures that your deck remains a timeless feature of your outdoor space, boasting both functionality and beauty for many years.

Aesthetic Variety

Available in a wide array of colours and textures, composite decking offers the unique ability to emulate various wood species, from the rich tones of mahogany to the light hues of pine.

This range allows homeowners to choose decking that perfectly aligns with their design vision, whether they're aiming for a classic, rustic look or a more contemporary, sleek appearance.

different types of composite decking

The advanced manufacturing techniques used in creating composite decking ensure that each board is consistent in colour and texture, providing a uniform and polished look that is hard to achieve with natural wood.

Low Maintenance

One of the most appealing aspects of composite decking is its low-maintenance nature. Gone are the days of laborious staining, sealing, or painting.

Composite materials require minimal upkeep – a simple routine of cleaning with soap and water is typically enough to keep it looking as good as new.

This ease of maintenance not only saves time and effort but also cuts down on the long-term costs associated with the upkeep of traditional wood decking. It's an ideal solution for those who want to enjoy their outdoor space without the added workload.

Keep in mind that this maintenance might change if you're installing composite decking over wood.

Environmentally Friendly

Composite decking steps up as a more sustainable choice compared to traditional wood decking. Many composite decking options are made from recycled materials, incorporating reclaimed wood and recycled plastics.

This not only reduces waste but also minimizes the need for new timber, helping to preserve forests and reduce the carbon footprint associated with decking materials.

By choosing composite decking, homeowners can enjoy their beautiful outdoor space while knowing they've made a choice that benefits the environment.

different type of composite decking

How to Choose the Right Composite Decking for You

Choosing the right composite decking involves considering several factors:

  • Consider Your Climate: Select a decking material that suits your local climate. For instance, capped composites are excellent for areas with high moisture levels.
  • Think About Usage: If your deck will see a lot of foot traffic or heavy furniture, opt for a more robust option like solid composite decking.
  • Match Your Style: Choose a decking type that complements your home's exterior and fits your style. Consider colour, texture, and overall look.
  • Budget: Evaluate your budget carefully; higher-priced composite decking often equates to better quality and longevity, balancing initial costs with future savings.
  • Installation Requirements: Consider the ease of installation – some decking options are more DIY-friendly, while others might require professional installation, impacting overall costs. You should also consider the type of frame you want, such as laying composite decking on wood frame.
  • Deck Size And Layout: The size and layout of your deck area can influence your choice of composite decking. Larger decks or those with intricate designs may benefit from specific types of decking that offer more structural stability or easier installation for complex shapes.

Conclusion

Composite decking offers a versatile, durable, and low-maintenance solution for your outdoor space. Whether you're building a deck with steps or revamping an existing one, there's a composite material that fits your needs

Remember, a well-chosen deck not only enhances the beauty of your home but also provides a functional outdoor living space for you to enjoy. For all your decking needs, no matter your requirements, Ovaeda has you covered.

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