Is Composite Decking Environmentally Friendly?
The green movement to combat climate change continues to influence home renovation and material selection. As warm weather sweeps into the Atlantic Northeast and coastal Delaware region, homeowners may be considering investing in or expanding their exterior entertainment space by installing a deck. While there are multiple decking materials to choose from, composite decking is a great option for those who seek to build a home that reflects their sustainable, eco-friendly goals.
What Is Composite Decking Made Of?
Composite decking is widely considered an environmentally friendly alternative to some other decking materials because it is made from reused plastics, like polyethylene film, sawdust, and other wood-waste materials. Manufactured with innovative techniques, composite decking supports conservation efforts by reducing the need for wood and helping to recycle and reuse waste otherwise destined for landfills. The result is a long-lasting, environmentally friendly building material.
Should You Invest in Composite Decking?
Because of its structural integrity and durability, composite decking is a great option for homeowners with families who use their backyard space a lot. Even after years of wear and tear from weather events and general use, composite decking typically maintains its appearance, strength, and function.
Composite decking looks like treated wood without some of the major drawbacks. Unlike wood, composite decking materials require less routine upkeep and are more resistant to water, UV, and impact damage. Homeowners should carefully select upkeep materials for their wooden decks, as some wood stains can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. For these reasons, composite decking can help keep long-term maintenance costs down while removing concerns over chemical use.
Routine maintenance of your composite deck should be minimal, consisting of seasonal cleanings to remove dirt, grime, or debris. Using chemical cleaners or pressure washers can be tough on your composite deck and strip it of necessary protective sealants, thus compromising its durability. Instead, use a warm water and soap mixture with a low setting on the pressure washer, or simply use a soft bristle brush to scrub. For more stubborn spots and mold, you can add vinegar and baking soda to the water mixture.
Are Composite Decking Materials Eco-Friendly?
True environmental sustainability requires more than creating new products from recycled materials that ultimately end up in a landfill. Companies and manufacturers worldwide are adopting circular business models that enable them to engage in eco-friendly practices along each step of their supply chain, such as:
- Repurposing production byproducts and recycled materials
- Transitioning to energy-reducing technologies
- Implementing closed-loop water filtration systems
Composite decking manufacturers, such as Trex and TimberTech offer competitive and high-quality materials and are transparent regarding their eco-friendly manufacturing practices. We encourage you to explore the manufacturers’ websites and learn more about their sustainable processes.
Advance Inc. is a proud installer of both Trex and TimberTech composite decks. Contact us today to speak to a representative or visit our website to browse our available services and materials. We are happy to help!