FEATURE
To deck or not to deck – that is no longer the question !
By Ken Patrick
As building costs increase , so the trend towards smaller homes grows . In Cape Town Central , micro-apartments of just 19 square metres are currently being sold at close to R1-million . And so , the opportunity to expand one ’ s living space at a fraction of the cost is a logical option .
The fact that our climate and lifestyle make outdoor living so much more attractive and accessible makes the addition of decking to a building a no-brainer , whilst adding to the resale value of the property .
Traditional timber decks are still very popular , from SA pine through to a wide variety of hardwood options . Depending on the choice of wood , and the level of care and maintenance , a timber deck will likely last from 10 to 30 years and offers a natural look . More recently , the trend is towards WPC or Wood Polymer Composite decking , and as with timber decking , there are many choices in terms of suppliers , profiles , colours and quality .
WPC combines recycled wood chips with plastic ( usually Polypropylene or Polyethylene ). The wood ( reduced to a ‘ wood flour ’) provides strength and is encased in the polymer which provides the weatherproof and wear benefits of the product . Profiles made from WPC originated in the US automotive industry , with the first patent lodged in 1985 . Chances are that the moulded parcel shelf in your dad ’ s sedan was probably made of WPC .
ALL IMAGES : DECKS ETC .
The latest trend is towards WPC or Wood Polymer Composite decking , and as with timber decking , there are many choices in terms of suppliers , profiles , colours and quality .
18 OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2021 // www . timberiq . co . za