Composite decking is an increasingly popular choice for those who wish to make some improvements to their gardens. But why are so many people buying composite decking? We’re going to look at this now.
When you plan to shop for composite decking, it’s likely that you will be shown a lot of information. However, you only need to know a few things when you’re shopping for composite decking in the UK:
- How Big Your Budget Is
- The Size of the Decking
- The Color of Your Decking Appearance
- How Sunlight Can Affect Your Decking
- The Price of the Extras
- The Longevity of Your New Decking
Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors:
How Big Your Budget Is
You might notice that wood decking is a little cheaper than composite decking. However, you should be aware that wood decking isn’t as durable or as long-lasting as composite decking.
This could mean your budget for the project might not stretch as far as you could have hoped. Alternatively, it could mean that you need to put a little more aside to pay for your decking. However, as we’ve already seen, composite decking can last a long time, incredibly, up to 25 years.
The Size of the Decking
Composite decking tends to be available in 12-, 16-, and 20-foot planks. When it comes to railings, they are available in 12- and 16-foot increments. When you’re armed with this information, you can make adjustments to your design should you need to. This ultimately means you can create decking that works well for you.
The Color of Your Decking Appearance
Did you know that composite decking is available in a range of colors? This means it’s easier for you to buy decking that matches or complements your garden.
Have you considered using two shades of decking? You could, for example, create a pattern by using different-colored decking. Alternatively, you could make the main deck area one color and the stairs, if you have any, another color. While doing this can make the pattern more interesting, it can also help to separate the areas. This makes the changes in those areas easier to see.
How Sunlight Can Affect Your Decking
There is always a potential for sunlight to affect your decking. This is because the darker the shade of decking, the more light it will absorb. Lighter-colored decking will reflect the sunlight. If you’re concerned that your new decking could get too hot to walk on, consider choosing a lighter shade.
The Price of the Extras
It’s easy to underestimate how much your new deck will cost. When your decking is being built, you will find that you’ll need a few extras. This is because composite decks need to be held together by trim boards, railings, and hidden fasteners. You should make sure that you have more than enough trim boards, railings, and hidden fasteners. In addition to this, you should choose a few more decking boards than you think you need. They could come in handy if a board becomes damaged during the construction process.
Finally, you will need post caps, end caps and reinforcement pieces. The cost of these extras can add up, but they are essential. They are an integral part of your composite decking and they will ensure it stays together well.
The Longevity of Your New Decking
When you buy decking, you should know that it can last up to 25 years. Most types of decking last up to 15 years, but composite decking is different. You can get an extra 10 years out of your decking, which isn’t a bad thing. While composite decking might cost a little more when you’re purchasing it, the overall cost tends to be less than you would pay for other types of decking.
As you can see, composite decking comes with many different benefits. It is available in a range of colors, it lasts a long time, and it will look good. Now you know everything you need to know about composite decking, you’re much more likely to buy the right amount and in a color that’s ideal for your garden.
