• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Strategicia

Initiate. Inspire. Innovate.

  • Home
  • Topics
    • Family
    • Health & Fitness
    • Education
    • Furniture
    • Technology
    • Business
    • Financial
    • Marketing
    • Transportation
    • Construction
  • Ask a Question
  • Contact Us

Better Than Composite Decking: The Real Deal, Part 2

Last updated on July 12, 2018 by Sozo Staff Leave a Comment

Ipe deck and stairs

When it comes to comparing Composite Decking products with real Exotic Hardwood Decking, it may seem like Composite Decking must be the better choice simply because it’s newer. Well, just like there’s a definite distinction between worthless and priceless, there’s an important distinction between trendy and timeless. Of course, we argue that real, natural lumber has a timeless appeal, despite the trendiness of Composite Decking products. In our comparison thus far (see Part 1), we’ve considered color matching, hardness, and fire ratings, giving Composite Decking a score of 1 versus Exotic Hardwood Decking with a score of 2.

Exotic Hardwood Decking Beats the Heat

The term “Composite Decking” might not sound like a problem; after all, it is a product manufactured for the purpose of outdoor decking, right? Well, we’re going to let you in on a little secret: the primary component of Composite Decking is actually something you probably don’t want anywhere on your high-end deck: Plastic. Yes, for real. Most Composite Decking products have an outer shell made from pure polyethylene (the low-quality plastic used to make disposable water bottles). Some blend plastic with the “wood flour.” No matter where the plastic is, it’s there. And in direct sunlight, plastic gets hot. Now, let’s think about it: what happens when plastic gets hot?

Not only is hot plastic an uncomfortable surface for bare feet, but it also ends up breaking down more quickly. As plastic breaks down, it becomes weaker and may also exude oils and let off gases. In addition, plastic retains heat for longer than real wood, extending the breakdown process until far past sunset. The most significant result, however, is that your plastic deck won’t last nearly as long as your neighbor’s deck, which is made from exotic hardwood.

Score Update: Composite Decking=1, Exotic Hardwood Decking=3

Ipe boardwalk at Johns Pass

Exotic Hardwood Decking Isn’t as Slick

We’re not trying to revive a ‘50s cliche, here: we’re talking about “slick” in the literal sense. Again relating to the all-important fact that Composite Decking is made from plastic, the surface can easily become slippery, especially when hot or wet. While some manufacturers have attempted to stamp decking boards with a woodgrain-type texture, even that won’t eliminate weeping oil.

With slip-and-fall accidents commonly leading to workers’ compensation claims and lawsuits (particularly for the 55-and-over-crowd), this issue is especially significant for public decks and docks. When you consider the fact that flooring materials contribute to over 2 million slip-and-fall injuries each year, including half of all accidental residential deaths, I think we’ll all agree that this issue is pretty significant.

Score Update: Composite Decking=1, Exotic Hardwood Decking=4

Continue with Part 3.

Learn More About the Lumber Industry

• Understanding the NHLA Grading System
• How To Find the Quality Plywood You’re Looking For

J. Gibson McIlvain Company

The McIlvain family has been immersed in the premium import & domestic lumber industry since 1798. Headquartered just outside of Baltimore, the J. Gibson McIlvain Company is one of the largest U.S. importers of exotic woods. As an active supporter of sustainable lumber practices, the J. Gibson McIlvain Company has provided fine lumber for high profile construction projects worldwide. Call (800) 638-9100 to speak with a J. Gibson McIlvain representative.

Filed Under: Construction, Lumber

Additional Articles

air drying lumber
When Buying Larger Size Lumber Is Actually Cheaper, Part 3
forklift loading kiln at mcilvain
When Buying Larger Size Lumber Is Actually Cheaper, Part 2
freshly cut wooden boards stacked at lumber mill
When Buying Larger Size Lumber Is Actually Cheaper, Part 1
freshly cut wooden boards stacked at lumber mill
What Species of Wood is Ideal for Painted Projects?
flat and quartersawn utile
Utile/Sipo: Affordable Alternative to Genuine Mahogany
How Lumber Imports Help Rainforest Conservation Efforts, Part 2

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

five × 2 =



Primary Sidebar

Quality wood products
Plywood options

Featured Articles

  • Genuine Mahogany vs. African Mahogany: What’s the Difference?
  • Why Teak Wood Has Been a Favorite Wood for Centuries
  • Plantation-Grown Fijian Mahogany: A Surprisingly Ideal Alternative to Genuine Mahogany
  • Ipe Decking: Should you use Face Screwed or Hidden Fasteners?
  • Plywood Core Issues – The Quality Behind Premium Plywood
  • Composite vs Hardwood Decking: Hardness & Fire Ratings
  • Excellent Tropical Hardwood Decking Species: 4 Options You’ll Adore
  • The Color of Quality Decks: Realizing the Beauty of Truly Green Building Products
  • The Color of Quality Decks: Addressing Natural Color Variation
  • How Extractives Impact the Color & Stain of Wood
Lyon Financial
Tropical decking

Popular Articles

  • Effects of Television on Teenagers
  • Evaluating Gym Air Quality: Why Chalk Is and Isn’t the Problem
  • Modern Perforating Techniques Used by Metal Manufacturers & Fabricators
  • How the All-New X10 HUB Builds on Already-Amazing Technology
  • Part 1: Selling a Limousine Business 101
  • Benefits of a Salt Water Hot Tub
  • What You Need To Know Before Buying a Pool Waterslide
  • Swimming Pool Additions: All About Climbing Walls
  • The Gymnast’s Diet: Why You Should Avoid Nitrates & Nitrites
  • The Gymnast’s Diet: Why You Should Avoid Refined Flours and Sugars

Reader Feedback

  • Mitch Shearer on How the All-New X10 HUB Builds on Already-Amazing Technology
  • Alec Burns on Health Benefits of Having Your Own Backyard Swimming Pool
  • Welded Mesh on Modern Perforating Techniques Used by Metal Manufacturers & Fabricators
  • Tyler Johnson on Top 3 Pool Maintenance Tasks – and Suggestions on How To Do Them
  • Kate Hansen on Health Benefits of Having Your Own Backyard Swimming Pool

Copyright © 2023 Sozo Firm Inc · Privacy Policy · Disclaimer · Sitemap