Posts Tagged ‘composite decking’

Trends in Decking

Monday, August 22nd, 2011

Decking trends are continuously changing. As this article from FiberOnDecking.com explains, the economy, material choices, and the housing market have greatly affected the look and feel of the average deck.

Size

With the slowing economy, the average deck continues to shrink in size. The old adage, bigger is better is no longer the decking rule of thumb. Instead, homeowners are spending increased time on deck design, functionality and value.

Materials

Do you choose traditional wood or composite decking? That is the question. And the answer is still split.

Wood requires more maintenance, but the aesthetical appeal in undeniable. Plus, companies have greatly improved the durability, and stain/fade resistance of wood decking. However, composite decking is still the best choice for the hands-off homeowner and has come a long way in terms of looks, now mimicking real wood better than ever.

Top brands are now producing hybrid deck boards with a wooden core covered with plastic to improve look and durability.

Market

Analysts predict that the decking market will rise slightly, but will still be nowhere near what it once was. Instead of building new decks, homeowners will focus more on deck repair and maintenance, as well as long-term, low-maintenance decking options.

Railings

With big deck remodels and re-builds out of the question because of shrinking budgets, deck and stair railing options have increased, providing a cost-effective way to add personality and character to your existing deck. Different materials and colors can be used to fit your style and budget.

Lighting

The use of deck lighting increases the usability of your deck, allowing you to better utilize your investment. Lighting can also be used to create or enhance the mood of your deck while increasing safety.

To find out which of these options makes the most sense for you, your deck, and your budget, it is best to talk to a professional decking company. If have any questions at all, contact TW Ellis by calling 800-852-8335 or click here today!

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Alternative Composite Decking is Quickly Gaining on Wood

Tuesday, July 5th, 2011

In 1992, wood decking comprised 98% of total decking installation. Since then, alternative-decking materials – wood-plastic composites, vinyl and polyethylene – have gained a lot of ground and in 2007 they represented 14% of aggregate decking demand. The sky appears to be the limit for alternative decking.

This article from About.com explains the increased demand for alternatives to wood decking.

Alternative decking material has several favorable performance characteristics, including high durability, long life, and low maintenance. And as these materials continue to improve upon their aesthetics and gain acceptance from more and more contractors, their use will continue to rise.

However, many consumers shy away from these decking materials because of their high initial purchase price. But this price will be made up for by the reduced maintenance costs and high durability of composite, vinyl and polyethylene decking – meaning these decks last longer than wood and require less annual attention.

But, while alternative decking materials keep gaining ground, wood still remains the king of the decking world.

If have any questions at all, contact TW Ellis by calling 800-852-8335 or click here today!

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Composite vs. wood decking

Thursday, September 16th, 2010

Many homeowners have made the transition to composite materials for their decks, preferring maintenance-free options.  However, it’s a myth that composite decks don’t require maintenance.   This doesn’t meant composite decks are bad, you’ll just have to keep some maintenance issues in mind.  This article does a good job of laying out the issues.

Composite decking still needs regular cleaning and care.  You just won’t have to paint or stain it annually like you have to do with wood.  Composite decking has appeared more susceptible to mold and other biological growth, making cleaning important.

Another maintenance issue is that composite is not as strong as wood, so depending on the construction of your deck, you may still have some wood supports to care for.  However you won’t have to worry as much about termites and rot.  You also won’t have to spend time pounding in raised nails or screws because most composite systems have their own interlocking set-ups.

If you’re thinking about a new deck and want to learn more about composite and wood options, contact us and we’ll be happy to discuss the pros and cons with you.  Once you’ve made your decision, we’ll get to work designing the perfect deck for you.

Considering composite decking? Here are a few benefits.

Monday, April 5th, 2010

Are you turned off by the care and maintenance required by a real wooden deck? Composite decking could be the answer to your worries. You’ll get a look that’s very similar to that of wood, with no maintenance being required.

Here are some basic benefits of composite decking you may not have known about:

- Will not rot or deteriorate due to harsh weather

- Contains no toxic chemicals or preservatives

- Low maintenance, never requiring staining, weathering, or sealing

- Resists heating and fading

- Easy to install

- Safe, slip-resistant when wet

- Doesn’t sliver or splinter, which makes it comfortable for bare feet to walk on

- Resistant to rot, fungus and insects

- Environmentally friendly because of its use of recycled wood fibers and plastics

- Doesn’t crack, split or warp

Composite decking is most certainly an easier way to do a wooden-type deck with less hassle and virtually the same look. If your considering composite decking, check out our website at www.twellis.com for the options we provide, beautiful examples and custom design ideas!