close

Articles and Tips

close

close

Testimonials - What our customers say

Updated May 20, 2009

close

Articles and Tips
Testimonials

Consider Composite Decking as a Low Maintenance Option for Your Northern Virginia Home

Looking for a low maintenance decking material for your Northern Virginia home? Consider composite decking, a wonderful option that has some characteristics of wood and some of plastic. Most composite decking is made of wood added to plastic resin, which leads to such features as durability, low maintenance and resistance to rotting and insects. Composite decking can often be confused with all-plastic decking; the difference between the two is that composite decking is made from a blend of wood industry-byproducts and some form of plastics and often recycled products such as wood fibers or sawdust.

As compared to traditional wood decks, composite decking will last longer and does not require annual application of a stain and/or sealant, such as wood decks require. Some manufacturers claim that their composite decks can last up to 30 years. Composite decks are recognized for their engineered resistance to cracking, splitting, and weathering, as seen in wood decks, and require no sealing, staining, or painting. Composite decks come in a number of color and texture options, so many can’t tell the difference between real wood and composite decking. However, homeowners should be advised that composite decking is more prone to staining and can fade over time, since composite decking contains tannic acid in the wood portion of its material.

Composite decking can also draw mold and mildew, so homeowners are advised to employ periodic cleanings in order to prevent mold and mildew buildup. As with any deck, composite decks should be built to manufacturers specifications to avoid sagging or drooping, while deck boards should be properly spaces to allow water drainage.

For more information on composite decking, contact the experts at Hal Co Fence Company. Established in 1981, Hal Co Fence has installed thousands of fences, decks, and screened porches throughout Northern Virginia and in such communities as Oakton, Falls Church, Arlington and Alexandria.

More about...

Gazebo

Feel the Warm Spring Breeze

What They Are Saying

Happy Family

The crew that came to our house was absolutely wonderful. They were very professional.

more