Composite decking boards are a cheaper alternative for constructing deck for outdoor living. In fact, it is also easier to construct compared to other available options. These stylish composite decking boards are a combination of various materials like wood, plastic, synthetic and so on which are mixed together to form composite decking boards. These are man-made but yet offer an appearance of a wood. The stylish composite decking boards are not only durable, but also have a long-lasting beauty with low-maintenance. These boards have gained great popularity in the market mainly because it is affordable on a long run and has very low-maintenance requirements.
The stylish composite decking boards are made of two major materials: wood and plastic. However, the content percentage of both the materials in the composite boards may vary. The composite decking boards may sometimes have a high percentage of wood, which is generally the leftovers from the lumber industries, or unused wood shaving, sawdust, wood fibres or wood chips that is reused and recycled, thus giving the stylish composite decking boards an authentic wooden look. But sometimes the composite decking boards may have a greater percentage of plastic or synthetic material in its composition. Thus, even though they become lighter in weight, but also gets less prone to damage and becomes more manageable, they sometimes fail to give the wooden appearance and looks more man-made. However, these stylish composite decking boards are eco friendly, that is, they do not cause any additional harm to the environment as most of the materials used, be it wood or plastic are recycled and reused, hence, they do not cause any environmental degradation.
There are mainly two ways or processes to make stylish composite decking boards.
They are as follows:
- One of the two processes is called extrusion. In this process, the raw materials are compelled to get inside a container through an opening where it is processed and mixed so that it maintains the desired shape and size and is consistent throughout.
- The second process is called compression molding. In this process, initially all the raw materials are melted down together to their liquid state. Then it is poured down in a wooden grain mold which is in a shape of composite decking boards. Later they are compressed under high heat and great pressure so that they form a strong physical bond and take the desired shape and size
The two very popular types of stylish composite decking boards are: capped and uncapped. Uncapped composite decking is the normal composite decking which is not protected by the added chemicals and preservatives and prevents the composite decks from damaging themselves externally. In such cases the wood and plastic are mixed together to form such a solid bond which protects it from fading, staining and makes it strong, reliant and ensure good looks. However, the capped composite decks are just like any other regular composite decking boards but they have a protective layer or covering on top which is an add-on feature. Generally, these decks are capped on all the four sides which not only make it an all-rounder but also increase its durability and potential to prevent any damage as it is reversible. Such capping of stylish composite decking boards contains chemicals like UV inhibitors, anti-oxidants and other similar chemicals which help in ensuring that the decks do not damage in any way and their beauty and durability lasts for decades with low-maintenance. Some added colors are blended along with the chemicals required for capping at exactly the right time which beautifies its appearance and makes it more attractive for outdoor fittings. Both the types of composite decking boards are having a very high demand in the market and one can choose according to their preferences.
