Decked out

If you’ve got a timber deck in your yard, you know only too well the maintenance that’s involved. If you’re looking to install a new outdoor deck, or want to refresh your current one, you might be considering composite decking.  But what is it exactly, and what are the benefits?  We spoke to Phil Hutt from Decks By Design to find out all about it.

1.     Phil, talk to us about composite decking. What is it exactly?

Composite Decking by Its very nature Is a decking product made from many materials, these days mostly from a Polyethylene and wood fibre mixture.

2.     And what are the benefits of it? How does it compare cost-wise? What colours are available?

Durability and long life are by far the prominent benefits arrived from the use of composite decking.

Cost of composite decking ranges from on par with Hardwood to twice as much depending on the quality of product required. However, the speediness of actual laying time reduces the overall comparison to that of a traditionally laid decking board.

Colours are changing rapidly to keep up with design, with at least 4 colours available in each brand.

3.     Where are you seeing this type of decking being used in people’s backyards? What is being used for?  Decks only? Walkways? Stairs?

Use for composite decking comes down to the Imagination of the designer. I have seen It used In decking, screens, benches, tables, post wraps, picture frames, fascia, stairs, cladding, the list goes on…..

4.     How does composite decking compare rate when it comes to sustainability?  Is it environmentally friendly?

Great question, so many companies that manufacture and market composite decking push the Idea of being sustainable and their products being made from recycled plastic. I say to the consumer that Is Interested In a product for this very reason to research themselves and balance out the pro's and cons to this very question.

My answer Is a no.

5.     We love a plant here at The Sub Branch.  If you could have any plant on your deck, what would it be?

All for a plant that bears fruit, I would say a lime citrus. Great for any beer or cocktail enjoyed on that deck of yours.