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Is Composite Decking
Maintenance Free?
Keep
Reading Below
Composite Decking
better than wood?
Does Composite Decking last forever?
None of
the above is true except that Manufacturers use to promote
composite decking with the above "not so true statements". Keeping that in mind, your
expectations of what these products can do and hold up to
can now be totally understood , creating reasonable
expectations.
Composites
are still a good choice, just think, no splinters and no
peeling.
The better description for composite decking such as Trex,
correctdeck and more would be referred to as “Low
Maintenance”.
Still problems can occur such as mildew,
scratches, stains. So do your homework to find out what is proper and
improper to maintain your deck. What kind of cleaners are
recommended , also, what's the best procedure to remove mold from
the deck? That's an important question, because using the
wrong cleaner can actually strip the finish of the deck board and
make your life even more miserable.
Cleaners for Trex, other composites;
http://www.corteclean.com/
How to
remove
Mold on Trex Composite ;
www.trex.com/universal/technical.com
Still; Composite Decking is
Better than Wood Decking
Composite Decking is getting better
every year. Manufacturers have successfully emulated the look
and effect of wood grain. Expect some fading of the color over
time.
If you love the look of wood,
composite decking manufacturers have certainly emulated the look of
wood and grain effect. Of course , the sun will fade out
the wood part of composites some, but
when installed it emulates that wood look nicely. However if
your looking for a long lasting wood deck solution , look at such
woods as Ipe or
Mahogany- but remember nothing is perfect. They both can fade
and will need to be oiled each year.
What can I expect - years
down the road from my composite deck?
Expect some scratches from moving stuff across the deck such as a
metal chair or table. For
example; Trex, like most composites will scratch fairly easily and
cannot be sanded out. Buying a product that emulates the wood grain
look will help to hide scratches. exposure
and give mildew and mold some foothold (please keep your composite
deck clean) . Like other composites the plastic in Trex will absorb
quite a bit of heat under direct sunlight and m Also watch
out for other possibilities such as repairmen dragging their tools
across the deck or someone walking on it with golf cleats on .
Also
small stains from catsup, mustard and the like can stain composite
decking. In time to some extent, these stains will fade.
Remember wood decks and plastic decks can scratch too. Conclusion:
Stuff happens. You will have to live with the fact that decks can
scratch and stain.
Temporary Fix for
Scratches
One temporary fix for scratches is found by using mini wax color
markers found in most hardware stores. Pick a color that
matches close and apply, especially good for deep scratches.
Again, this is only a temporary fix, and will help.
Stains and Scratches- below
Warrantees given by
Composite decking companies are famous for pointing out their flaws.
Usually pool chemicals, wear,
and mold growth are not covered by the manufacturer
warranty even though some say lifetime warranty. Be careful to
read the small print.
Look at this link to identify some
warranty issues one's deck my develop in the future-
especially if you now have a problem with your composite deck.
And Last but not least; don't buy cheap low priced composite
decking. We've heard that they can turn into a nightmare.
Not worth it.
© 2005 American Floor
Coverings Inc. All rights reserve
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