How the Upkeep of a Composite Deck Would Compare to Other Deck Options in the Olathe and Aubry, KS, Areas

A composite deck could be considered an eco-friendly and low-maintenance solution for your outdoor living space. If you are wondering how the upkeep of a composite deck would compare to other deck options in the Olathe and Aubry, KS, areas, continue reading to discover more about composite decks. 

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What to Know About Maintenance and Care of Composite Decks 

Composite decking is often made from reused plastics and recycled wood. The versatile design, colors, and texture of composite decking can resemble natural wood. However, composite decking offers the benefits of durability, longevity, and low maintenance compared with its counterparts. 

Since a composite deck is partially made with wood, cleaning it is necessary to avoid mildew and mold growth. Ideally, you could have your composite deck cleaned semi-annually by scrubbing each deck board with a composite cleaner and water. Cleaning off stains and dirt accumulated from frequent use can help maintain the appearance of your deck.

In addition to general cleaning, a composite decking brightener can help maintain the deck's surface and appearance. It is also helpful to prevent snow and ice buildup off your patio or pool deck in the winter season. This can help avoid the possibility of scratching or chipping on the surface if you have to shovel snow.

How Does Composite Deck Maintenance Differ From Other Deck Options?

A deck is an outdoor structure of a home or building that creates a space for hosting parties, cooking barbecues, or creating a poolside area. The upkeep of your deck can vary based on the needs of the material and its environment. Although landscapers can build composite decks to resemble the look of natural wood or another material, these differ in that composite doesn't require the same upkeep. 

Natural Wood 

Common natural wood options for decks include cedar and redwood. Unlike composite, a natural wood deck would require maintenance such as sanding, sealing, staining, painting, and cleaning. 

Natural wood is also susceptible to water, making this decking material more susceptible to stains, splintering, cracking, and watering. Composite material has better longevity and maintains its appearance for more extended periods than real wood decks.  

Pressure Treated Lumber

Pressure-treated lumber wood is an option for wood decking because of its added resistance to rotting, although it stands a better chance of rotting than untreated wood. 

Composite decks would still hold a better low-maintenance solution than pressure-treated lumber because this deck style can require regular sanding, staining, and painting to maintain its appearance. 

Vinyl Options 

Vinyl is a type of material used for decks and fences. Like composite decking, vinyl features a low-maintenance, long-lasting option for a deck. The upkeep of vinyl includes similar methods of general cleaning. However, composite decks are usually less susceptible to expansion than vinyl when exposed to extreme heat or direct sunlight over the years. 

Aluminum Decking

Aluminum material is another option for decking material. Compared with the upkeep of composite decking, aluminum requires the same general cleaning of deck boards. The surface of aluminum decks can fade over time, depending on the local conditions. 

If you paint your aluminum deck boards for the wood-like appearance that composite provides, this is also another aspect of maintenance to consider. Aluminum boards need repainting periodically to maintain the finish and appearance you prefer. 

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