If you think you may grow tired of the work and expense of cleaning and sealing your new deck, consider installing synthetic wood decking. The styles and materials available today offer the appearance and stability of wood without the added expense of annual maintenance.

Since 2000, the use of synthetic wood decking had almost doubled from 8% to 15% and continues to grow at a rate of about 25% each year. Homeowners are recognizing they may not have the time to properly clean and seal their on average of once a year and, with the improvements made in appearance, synthetic wood decking can be made to closely resemble wood grains.

Most synthetic wood decking can be installed much the same way as wood decking, as far as cutting and nailing are concerned, but drilling pilot holes close to the end of a piece is still recommended. Costs associated with installation will not differ much from wood; rather the savings in the time and the effort required for annual maintenance.

Synthetic wood decking is available in polyethylene composites manufactured from soft recycled plastics, such as empty milk jugs of plastic pop bottles. It also comes in polypropylene composites, which are made of harder recycled plastics, such as that found in computer keyboards.

Other synthetic wood decking uses high-density polypropylene, utilizing metal extrusions and vinyl membranes. The type and style you choose will be dependent on your location, surrounding landscaping, and available budget. Keeping in mind the long-term cost, synthetic decking will be cheaper on a “by the year” average in term of maintenance.

Reduced Fungus and Decay

Other advantages of choosing synthetic wood decking are its ability to fend off attacks by fungus and natural decay, evident in some composite materials which contain wood fibers. Since fungus does not grow on plastics, it can be a healthier alternative as well.

Some manufacturers of synthetic decking offer several styles of wood grain and colors to fit in with your existing home. Additionally, hidden connectors can make the surface of the deck practically mar free.

One of the disadvantages of synthetic wood decking is its availability. While there are several companies manufacturing it, there are few warehouses willing to stock all the styles and varieties, and many aren’t available in all areas of the country. Some distributors are even reluctant to place special orders, but as the use of synthetic wood decking grows, it will undoubtedly increase the availability.