There are a number of advantages with composite decks. Most composites are manufactured from wood by-products (sawdust and woodchips) and recycled plastics. The result is a product that captures the best of both worlds – the beauty of wood without its disadvantages.

 

The primary benefit of using composite decking in your exterior renovations is its durability. It can withstand the kind of severe weather conditions characteristic of most Canadian locales for decades. It doesn’t require any additional treatment or protection. Composite decking comes with a residential warranty – 25 years is common.

 

Composite decking requires no staining, painting or treating. Unlike treated wood, it won’t fade, crack or split as the material dries. There is no danger of slivers, so it is great for the bare feet of summer. And, because of the lack of splinters, composites are also great for railings.

 

It is easy to install and also a breeze to clean. A soapy mop and wash-down with your garden hose is usually sufficient. Composite decking is mould, rot and fungal decay-resistant, as well as weather and warp-resistant.

 

The overall exterior design of your Toronto home can further be enhanced by the different composite colours available. It is possible to design in patterns on the deck surface or to install a light-coloured central area bordered by darker tones. Composite decks welcome creativity.

 

 

Price is perhaps the primary disadvantage of composite products; depending on locale and availability, they can cost between 50% and 100% more than standard treated lumber. Although an exterior renovation with decking can enhance the value of your property, the materials used may not necessarily factor in that increase.

 

Environmentally, there is not much difference between composites and treated wood; both decay at roughly the same rate. The variation in colouring that gave you so much design creativity also means that you are bound by that colour once it’s installed; the colour can’t be changed. Darker colours may fade slightly, especially if they are in an exposed area or subject to high traffic.

 

Composite woods are not designed for load-bearing tasks; posts or joists should be made from treated wood. And, although durability is their great advantage, composite wood is not immune from damage from furniture or storm debris. If it is damaged, it can’t be refinished; it must be replaced.

 

 

There is an almost limitless number of backyard deck designs available. When you’re considering your deck, it is important to have a solid budget worked out. You should also know if there are any building restrictions or zoning regulations governing a deck build. Do you want levels? What about a wrap-around deck? How about planning to co-ordinate the natural environment and your yard in the design? And, perhaps most important, what do you see it being used for? A deck that is going to support cooking and entertaining will be very different from a small oasis where you can sit in comfort and enjoy the great outdoors.

 

Regardless of the design, composite wood decks are a viable option for any locale or climate.