Composite Decking Improves Quality of Outdoor Entertaining at Homes in Great Falls, VA
Wood–Plastic Composites (WPCs) is a relatively new building material first introduced in the 1990s, primarily for use in deck building. Made up of wood fibers, such as wood chips and sawdust, and thermoplastics, WPCs were first just used for deck floors but have since expanded to be used for railings, posts, benches, and other outdoor building components. For many of our clients, such as those in Great Falls, VA, composite decking made of WPCs has become a popular alternative to solid wood decking.
Sustainability is one of the reasons so many give for choosing composite decking. It extends the life of discarded products, such as plastics you put out for recycling, and the waste products of the wood lumbering industry. Further, it can be recycled into new WPCs after its purpose has concluded.
During the manufacturing process, composite decking materials can be formed into solid or hollow planks. WPCs can be formed to provide beautiful curving for rounded decks, creating beautiful and unique structures for homes in Great Falls, VA. Composite decking also can come in many unique colors, including earthy colors that match natural woods and stains of traditional hardwoods.
Other additives are combined with wood, plastic, and pigmentation during the manufacturing process. These are typical chemicals that preserve the wood particles in the composite and prevent erosion by fungus or wood–boring insects. All these additives combine to create a product that is virtually maintenance–free and longer–lasting than traditional lumbering solutions.
While composite decking has a long life and is void of many of the issues that cause problems with traditional wood decks, such as rot and wood–boring bugs, it is not totally impervious to the elements. Over time freezing and thawing or UV degradation may reduce the strength of the decking materials. Composite decking can be scratched and be stained by food and grease.
There are wood engineering scientists at universities like the University of Washington continuing the work of studying manufacturing and outputs of composite engineering to further the knowledge, improve outputs, and protect public safety. Composites are still a relatively new frontier. But for homeowners in Great Falls, VA, composite decking represents an improvement in the quality of life outdoors and entertaining.