Choose marine-grade composite decking when building your floating dock. Why? Because the composite material has a longer lifespan with less maintenance required. Not to mention the recycled materials that help lower environmental impact! Plus, mildew, rot, mold, and moisture damage that quickly destroy traditional wood can be prevented with a modern composite wood deck. Here’s everything you need to know about composite decking for docks.
Can PVC Decking Be Submerged in Water?
No, composite decking cannot be completely submerged in water. However, it makes an excellent choice for boat docks due to its resistance against weather elements and minimal maintenance needs. Many composite decking products, including those made with high-density polyethylene, offer superior features such as durability, moisture resistance, and slip resistance.
One of the many advantages of composite marine decking is its easy maintenance: no staining or sanding required! Simply washing with soap and water is all that’s required to keep it looking beautiful.
Can You Use Composite Decking Options for Docks?
Floating docks require special consideration in terms of load-bearing capacity and weather conditions. Plus, they’re exposed to water and sunlight all year round. So, durable yet low-maintenance materials like composite decking are an ideal solution for docks as they offer anti-slip performance.
Composite marine decking not only boasts a natural appearance, but its low maintenance requirements make it simple and economical to clean. No sanding and staining are needed, saving both time and money for owners.
Benefits of Composite Decking Material
Composite decks differ from wood decks in many ways. For example, they don’t require staining or sealant applications. Hence, less maintenance.
Many composites use recycled materials, providing environmental sustainability. Also, their non-recurring application of stains or chemicals means you won’t contribute any harmful substances to the environment.
Low Maintenance
Composite decks require minimal upkeep in order to look their best. Unlike wood decking, which needs annual staining and sealing treatments, composite decks only need periodic cleaning with soapy water. This saves homeowners time and money in maintenance costs, which is ideal for busy families.
Composite deck material does not absorb moisture. Hence, no mold, mildew, or rot. Apart from this, its surface resists splinters, making it an excellent choice for families with children or pets.
Though a bit costly than traditional wood decking solutions, its long-term savings and durability make a composite decking solution an intelligent investment.
Environmentally Friendly
Composite decking is long-lasting and easy to maintain while being environmentally friendly. Why? These use recycled materials and less energy production compared to traditional wood decks for production. Hence, lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Homeowners today are becoming more conscious of their ecological impact, and sustainable decking is an easy way to make an impactful statement about this.
Slip-Resistant Surfaces
Composite decking is safer for people to use than traditional wooden decks as it’s slip-resistant, splinter-free, and resists mold and mildew growth. This makes them particularly appealing to homeowners with children or pets. Plus, composite decking incorporates wood fibers and wood particles blended with recycled plastic, which improves its natural look and durability while reducing moisture absorption.
Composite and advanced PVC decking come in an assortment of colors and styles to accommodate individual homeowner aesthetic preferences and architectural styles. Plus, their UV resistance helps lower maintenance costs in the long run!
Durability
Durability should always be top of mind when selecting deck material. Traditional wood decks often experience moisture absorption, rot, mildew growth, and warping, which significantly shorten their lifespan. Composite materials have been designed to resist these issues so as to provide decades of wear-free enjoyment.
Composite materials are composed of advanced recycled plastic polymers and hard minerals combined via co-extrusion technology to form solid boards with superior strength and durability. This process gives composite boards their extraordinary properties.
Although composite materials are exceptionally resilient, it’s still important to remember that they can still become damaged if improper care isn’t taken. Routine cleaning, debris removal, and any potential staining or mold issues should be addressed promptly.
Is There a Downside to Composite Decking?
When it comes to creating an elegant waterfront oasis, many homeowners and property managers turn to composite decking for its low maintenance needs and long-term financial value. But, still, there are some drawbacks that you should know:
No Painting Option
One major drawback of composite decking is its difficulty in changing colors after installation, which may be a burden if you intend to sell or simply wish for different options. However, most quality composite decking products will withstand harsh sunlight well and maintain their appearance for many years after being installed.
Vulnerable to Staining
Composite decking materials tend to stain more easily than natural wood decks. This is a threat in areas with heavy rainfall or when used alongside landscaping around a dock. With proper technology upgrades and planning, this can be mitigated.
Conclusion
Composite materials still offer advantages over natural wood options despite any downsides they may present, however. They provide durable surfaces with extended longevity, great looks, and reduced total ownership costs when compared with natural wood alternatives.
As opposed to natural wood decks, which require regular staining and water sealing for their beauty and structure, composite decks only need occasional soap-and-water washings for upkeep.
Build a Dock That Lasts with Foothills Docks
When it comes to building a dock, there’s a big difference between doing it yourself and having it done right the first time. That’s where Foothills Docks comes in. We’ve spent years installing docks that stand up to the unpredictable conditions of our local waters. Contact our team for a free estimate!
