Why Many Believe Composite Decking is Environmentally-friendly

In today’s eco-conscious society, the conversation around our communities and national space revolves around making all facets of our lives more environmentally friendly. Many members of the scientific community and policymakers have drawn our attention to the type of products we buy and their environmental effects. As a result, some homeowners are super conscious about the nature of the products they use in their outdoor spaces.

Composite decking is one of the most environmentally friendly decking products available. It is made up of a combination of composting, a process of recycled wood and plastic.
This article will show why many believe composite decking is environmentally friendly. To buttress our statement about the eco-friendliness of composite decking, we will compare three of the most common decking materials, natural wood, plastic and composite, to bring to light their eco-friendly qualities in addition to their potentially toxic features.

If you want to choose the most environmentally friendly decking product for your outdoor space or yard, there are few things you must consider; they include the process of manufacturing or production and maintenance method or technique.

Plastic decking

Plastic decking is perhaps the most environmentally unfriendly decking product. It is composed primarily of synthetic materials, including polyvinyl chloride, a toxic plastic polymer. Polyvinyl chloride is bad for the environment as it is emitted into the air, water and land during production. This can cause serious health problems and environmental damage. Plastic deck boards are non-recyclable. They can only be disposed of by incineration or landfill.

Plastic decking has an advantage. It does not need the use of sealants or paints after installation. This means there is no need for further addition of chemicals. Because plastic decking is non-biodegradable and hard to dispose of, it is avoided by eco-conscious homeowners.

Wood decking

One cursory glance, and it is easy for one to believe or think that wood decking is the most eco-friendly decking product. In fact, it is much more than most of the alternatives. But, when you begin to realise that wood decking is a product of deforestation or the felling of hundreds of thousands of trees, then you may have a change of perspective.

Aside from deforestation, the movement or distribution of hardwood for production of timber wood deck boards contribute to the emission of pollutants as tonnes of forest wood is transported globally nearly every day. In addition to this fact, sealants and stains are frequently used to elongate the lifespan of wood decking. These chemicals are very harmful, toxic and can negatively impact the environment throughout deck maintenance.

Wood decking has an important advantage. It can be disposed of in an eco-friendly manner whenever it has reached the end of its life span. Wood decking can be repurposed or redeployed for alternative use.

In case you are interested in learning more, read here a super extensive guide on how to choose the best lumber for decks.

Composite decking

What is the difference between composite decking and the materials mentioned above? Manufacturers of composite decking boards are striving to improve the planet’s sustainability by making composite decking boards from recycled materials. The primary composition of composite decking boards is recycled wood and plastic. These recycled materials are sourced from industrial and consumer waste, aiding in the reduction of plastic and wood waste in landfills annually.

You wouldn’t need to worry about using sealant or stains after and during installation with composite decking. As a result, no hazardous or toxic substances are used. This means its usage does not in any way cause a negative environmental impact.

You should note that some composite decks are non-recyclable. However, they are low maintenance and more durable than wood decking. Getting a composite deck is said to be a wise investment because of its long term value. It can last up to 30 years with minimal upkeep. Wood and plastic decking can’t compare as they will need to be replaced and disposed of on a regular basis.

Every decking product has advantages and disadvantages, but the decking option that does the least damage to the environment is composite decking. Composite deck is arguably the most eco-friendly option on the market today.