When people think of decking, they have an automatic notion that they should be thinking about wood and choosing between the broad choice of hardwoods available. However, in recent years, composite decking has really made its presence felt on the market. At one time, a poor cousin to wood, composite decking today has significantly improved and really has much to offer.
At Wood and Beyond we’ve chosen to stock a UPM ProFi deck range as our flagship composite decking. Most composite decking is made from a combination of recycled materials. This particular decking option is made from recycled American red and white oak fibres using a patented process where the fibres are heat treated and encapsulated in a hard polymer shell. This produces an exceptionally solid board that is protected to the core.
When you consider composite decking as a whole sector of the decking market, you’ll find a whole host of raw materials are used. Wood fibres and plastics are normally combined with a binding agent that means that the end result is a product even denser and stronger than wood or plastic alone. With a strong product like this, there’s an amazing level of resistance to damage through weathering and use, which means that composite decking doesn’t need to be treated in the same way as wood does in order to protect it from wear and tear, sun, rain and frost.
Here are just some of the benefits of composite decking in general as well as our range of UPM ProFi:
1. It looks great. As we mentioned earlier, composite decking now looks great and is a real contender for your deck purchase. Not so very long ago, composite decking looked like a poor imitation of wood, but this is no longer the case and offers you design choices that natural products can’t.
2. It’s pretty much maintenance free. The construction of composite decking is such that the boards of your deck will be protected against any forms of stain, whether from plants and pots or from spills.
3. It’s practically weather-proof. This sort of decking is naturally resistant to moisture absorption and because of this, no matter how much rainfall the deck suffers, the boards won’t suffer. UPM ProFi decking is also particularly UV resistant, which means that it’ll retain its colour, no matter how strong the sun. When you consider these facts, it’s easy to see why so many people are being converted to this option.
4. It’s recycled. Caring for the environment is important to pretty much everyone these days and knowing that when you choose a composite deck, you’re making a responsible choice is highly rewarding and reassuring.
5. It’s incredibly strong. Because of the way composite decking is made by mixing wood and plastic products, the end result is a board that is even stronger than either material alone. This means that when you invest in composite decking, you can expect your decking to last for a very, very long time.
6. It has a high fricition surface. Sometimes people complain that hardwood decks become slippery when wet or when they’re ready for a good clean and treatment. This is not the case with UPM ProFi. Its high friction surface means that you’re safe to walk, no matter the conditions under foot.
7. It comes in a whole choice of colours. No matter whether you’re looking for a traditional wood-tone colour, a funky, modern colour or a monochrome look, UPM ProFi has it all.
8. It’s really comfy under foot. Because UPM ProFi is splinter free, even babies crawling around and grown-ups walking in bare feet can feel safe and comfortable.
9. It’s easy to work and install. When it comes to working and installing UPM ProFi, there are no special tools required and the whole fitting system is designed to make your life easy.
10. It’s affordable. Comparable in price to a mid-range hardwood decking option, UPM ProFi certainly won’t break the bank, but will look as if it has!
If you’d like help to choose the right deck for your project, why not get in touch? We’ll give you an impartial and expert view on what would work best within your budget.
—
FAQ
What is composite decking made from?
Composite decking is typically made from a combination of recycled materials. For example, the UPM ProFi deck range at Wood and Beyond is made from recycled American red and white oak fibres. These fibres are heat-treated and encapsulated in a hard polymer shell, creating an exceptionally solid board.
What are the benefits of composite decking?
The benefits of composite decking include its great appearance, nearly maintenance-free nature, weather-proof properties, and its strength. It’s made from recycled materials and provides a high friction surface, making it safe to walk on under any conditions. Additionally, it comes in various colours, is comfortable underfoot, easy to install, and is affordable.
Is composite decking environmentally friendly?
Yes, composite decking is environmentally friendly as it’s often made from recycled materials. For instance, the UPM ProFi decking range uses recycled American red and white oak fibres.
How does composite decking withstand weather conditions?
Composite decking is naturally resistant to moisture absorption, which means the boards won’t suffer damage, no matter how much rainfall they’re exposed to. They are also highly resistant to UV rays, retaining their colour even under strong sunlight.
Does composite decking require any special tools for installation?
No, when installing UPM ProFi composite decking, no special tools are required. The whole fitting system is designed for ease of installation.