DECKING
Which is better ? Composite or timber decking ? Traditionalists of course will revel in the look and feel of real timber , which can be revarnished , or repainted if the mood strikes and it is well suited to older style properties .
However , it ’ s important to point out to your clients that composite decking will maintain its good looks for longer and with less effort . For clients who are elderly or have children , you should let them know that the surface is less slippery , leading to a reduced risk of trips and falls in wet weather all year round .
Composite decking is also more weather resistant and comes in a greater range of colours . In many cases it ’ s so realistic it ’ s hard to spot the difference . So , it ’ s a case of weighing up the benefits of both and looking at the client ’ s needs .
Which option is more environmentally friendly ? Consumers are increasingly ecoconscious these days so it ’ s good to have the answer to this up your sleeve . Timber decking sourced from sustainable forests obviously boasts very strong eco credentials . However , some composite decking can be just as green .
For example , Trex composite decking is made of plastic and wood , but uses 95 per cent recycled materials - including thousands of recycled plastic bags plus reclaimed wood from timber mills . It ’ s also worth pointing out that in the long term they won ’ t need to clean it with chemicals or detergents to prevent it from rotting .
Does all composite decking look the same ? We ’ re often asked this question at Southern Sheeting by our enthusiastic DIY fans eager to have a go themselves and you can bet your client will ask this question too . One of the great benefits of composite decking is that it is customisable . It can be laid in different patterns and configurations – and different colours can be used in the design to create a look that is unique , eye catching and modern .
For some inspiration why not suggest using a perimeter board in a different colour to ‘ picture frame ’ the deck ? With a timber deck , it would be necessary to buy two lots of paint to achieve the same effect . www . southernsheeting . co . uk
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