But is plastic decking really the best choice for your home?
Plastic decking has been around for a long time and is still often used today, but many people don’t know what they’re getting into when they choose plastic decking over its alternatives. While it’s easy to install, it doesn’t last as long as some other decking options and can be uncomfortable to stand on during warm weather. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of plastic decking so you can make an informed choice about your new home improvement project.
Plastic decking really the best choice
The cost
PVC and composite decks are often much more expensive than wood decks. Wood decks typically need only a good scrubbing with soap and water once or twice a year, but composite decks require special cleaners to keep them in good shape. It’s important to consider these costs when you decide on which type of deck you want.
The longevity
PVC decks will last about 10-15 years, so they are a better option if you don’t plan on living in your house that long. However, PVC does not have many of the environmental benefits that composite or wood decks do. Composite and wood decks can last 30-40 years or more with good care, but komposittrall inspiration can be expensive and require professional installation.
The maintenance
PVC decks are a great choice if you want to avoid those problems. They are made of polyvinyl chloride and they don’t contract or expand in different climates. PVC decks also don’t get very hot, so your feet will stay cool and comfortable when you’re out on the deck. The only maintenance that’s needed for PVC decks is a quick sweep once in a while.
The safety issues
In hot, sunny areas, plastic decks can get very hot on the soles of the feet and actually radiate heat, making them uncomfortable. While they might not wear or tear as easily as wooden decks, they are also more likely to produce hazardous fumes if heated too much. Furthermore, it’s important to remember that plastics aren’t always recyclable so disposing of a broken deck made from this material could pose a challenge.
How to fix it
One potential solution to this problem is to use a solid plank of wood with a polyurethane finish. This will provide the same benefits as a plastic deck without some of disadvantages. The next issue that many people have with plastic decks is that they are not environmentally friendly, which can be an issue for people who care about the environment and sustainability. Another issue that can arise from using plastic komposittrall materials is if it expands or contracts too much, then it can actually cause joints to loosen and make a deck unstable. In hot, sunny areas, plastic decks can get very hot on the soles of feet and actually radiate heat, making them uncomfortable. They also might require additional maintenance such as staining or sealing every two years to maintain their appearance and durability.
Alternatives
There are a number of alternatives to plastic decking, including composite wood and cedar decks. Composite wood decks have some of the same disadvantages as plastics, but they are less expensive and don’t get as hot in sunny climates. Cedar decks are more expensive, but they’re also warmer and last longer than composite wood decks.
