Pressure-treated wood decks are commonly used for residential and commercial decks, but there are some pros and cons to using pressure-treated wood that you should be aware of before starting your deck project. Pressure-treated wood is basically a type of cheap lumber that has been impregnated with chemicals to make it last longer outdoors in the elements. In this article, we’ll look at the pros and cons of using pressure-treated wood in your next deck project, along with what steps you can take to maximize the life of your deck while protecting the environment.
Pressure Treated Wood Is Cheaper
The main reason why a pressure-treated wood deck costs less is that it can be made out of cheap, low-quality softwoods (ie: pine). The pressure treatment will keep it safe for at least a decade, but with constant exposure to weather elements, over time it will wear out. These types of decks are typically light in color and look bleached or grey in appearance. A typical wood lägga komposittrall will cost more upfront, but when it comes to maintenance you really save money. They are much stronger than a pressure-treated deck, so they don’t need to be replaced as often. They also come in many different colors and styles so that you can customize your decking alternative to match your home’s design style.
Composite Decks Last Longer
Wood is one of several decking alternatives. Wood, however, does not have a very long lifespan if it isn’t properly maintained. If you don’t have time to upkeep your wood deck regularly, composite decks might be a better option for you. While composites are more expensive upfront than wood, they require less maintenance over time. They won’t rot as quickly in warm and wet weather (as wood will) nor will they splinter or crack as easily from cold weather.
Composite Decks Can Be Easier to Maintain
The composite deck will be easier to maintain than a pressure-treated wood deck. The composite decks are made from plastics and resins that can be scrubbed or hosed off when dirty, but you can’t hose a pressure-treated wood deck—you’ll have to use harsh chemicals. If you want to keep your composite deck clean, just sweep it off with a broom or dust mop instead.
The cleaner you keep your deck, though, the better it will look over time. You don’t need to paint your composite deck; it comes in many colors so you can choose one that matches your home’s exterior. But if you do paint it, make sure you follow directions carefully and only use non-toxic paints and sealers for safety reasons. When choosing a color for your composite deck, think about how often you’ll need to wash or repaint it because darker colors tend to show dirt more quickly. And speaking of painting… You won’t need to repaint a composite deck as often as you would repaint a wood one because water-based paints don’t peel as oil-based ones do on plastic surfaces.
Maintenance Costs Are Lower Over Time
While pressure-treated wood decks cost about per square foot, composite decking will cost about per square foot, meaning it will be more expensive upfront. However, maintenance costs for a composite deck are lower over time than those for a pressure-treated wood deck. The komposittrall altan will last longer without warping or rotting than a pressure-treated wood deck. In addition to these long-term benefits, there is also greater design variety with composite decks, making them more aesthetically appealing.
Composites Are Better For Eco-Friendly Homes
Composite decking has been described as a green material because it requires fewer environmental resources to create than pressure-treated wood. Additionally, composite decking is made from recycled plastic that could have otherwise ended up in a landfill. However, most composite decking still contains some recycled wood fibers, which are not biodegradable. Composite decks do not rot or splinter, so there’s no need for annual sanding or staining to protect your home.
Conclusion
In conclusion, composite decks are a great decking alternative to pressure-treated wood. Although they cost more upfront, they will save you money in the long run with less maintenance than wood decks. Composite decks last longer than wood decks too!
