With all the different types of decking available, choosing the right product for your project can be a challenge. Composite decking continues to be a popular choice for buyers who desire an alternative to traditional wood. In this article, we define composite decking, explore the drawbacks, and explain how WEARDECK™ fills in the gaps in the industry.
Defining Traditional Composite Decking
The Cambridge English Dictionary defines composite as “made of various parts or substances.” To produce composite decking, manufacturers combine natural and synthetic ingredients. Most composite deck boards are a mixture of wood fiber, virgin or recycled plastic, and chemical additives.
Composite decking usually falls into two categories: uncapped wood composite and capped wood composite. Uncapped wood composite is the most susceptible to mold and mildew due to its exposed wood ingredients. Capped wood composite boards offer increased protection as they are sealed in a plastic shell. Some are capped on 3 sides, some on 4 sides, however the ends of the boards are not capped allowing moisture to be absorbed into the wood fibers.
Problems With Traditional Composite Decking
Builders and homeowners share common concerns about composite decking. Composite deck boards contain porous wood fibers that absorb moisture, fade, stain, swell and feed bacteria. Despite the synthetic ingredients and chemical additives, composite decking remains susceptible to the factors that inevitably deteriorate wood.
If you research the problems associated with composite decking, you will find a list of recurring issues. Three significant failures include: persistent mold, delamination, and sunlight issues. Even in a plastic shell, capped wood composite risks molding with inadequate airflow or regular water exposure.
Composite boards split, delaminate, and peel due to thermal expansion and contraction. Composite generally weighs more than lumber yet provides less strength, causing boards to sag and bend. Composite decks tend to become slippery when wet, stained, and faded over time, and unbearably hot on sunny days.
Advantages of WEARDECK™
Feeling discouraged by all the concerns that come along with composite decking? We were, too. That’s why we recommend trying WEARDECK™. Unlike other traditional materials, WEARDECK™ is a GLAS-POWERED™ composite lumber that delivers strength and durability from the inside out. Because it contains no wood fibers or organic fillers, WEARDECK™ will never experience the problems common with wood composite decking.
How does WEARDECK™ outperform other composite decking? Our boards are immune to water damage, rot, mold, mildew, and insect infestation. OC™ Lumber is rated for ground contact and underwater installation and boasts the highest live load rating in the industry. Our boards add to the structural stability of projects, and experience minimal expansion and contraction.
WEARDECK™ includes a 25-year UV package to avoid fading and resists stains more effectively than most competitors. Our heat-reflective boards have a wood grain finish and a limited lifetime warranty that will allow you to enjoy for generations to come.
Experience the Owens Corning® difference with WEARDECK™ for decking and OC™ Lumberdeck framing. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a time to visit our showroom.