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May 26, 2017
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Composite Decking Cheat Sheet

Once upon a time, an overwhelming majority of decks were comprised of wood.  While wood can still be a wonderful choice, composite decking materials are quickly winning favor with homeowners because of the minimal maintenance they require.  If you’re thinking of installing a composite deck on your property, here’s a cheat sheet that can assist you in the decision making process.

What is Composite Decking?

Composite decking consists of a combination of plastic material and wood particles.  Many times, the plastic material is made of recycled by-products such as milk jugs, soda bottles and shopping bags.

Why Are Composite Decks Gaining Popularity?

Hands down, composite decking will be less maintenance than a wooden deck because it does not need to be sanded or stained again…ever.  Due to their composition, they do not rot and are not a target for termites. zuir

Hollow vs Solid Composite Deck:

While there are many different manufacturers of composite decking, there is a single differentiating factor between all types of composite decking.  That is whether the deck in hollow or solid.  What’s the difference?  Hollow composite decks are lighter, less expensive and look less like wood, but they do not expand and contact as much as a solid composite deck.  Hollow decks are more flexible and are susceptible to damage prior installation.  For these reasons, solid composite decks tend to be more popular.

Differences in Types of Composite Decking Materials:

Polyethylene Based:

This is the most cost effective of the three types and is the most popular composite decking type on the market.  It most closely imitates the look of wood and can be cut into the longest deck boards.

To learn more about this type, check out Deborah’s composite decking project in St. Paul, MN.

Deck

Polypropylene Based:

This type of composite decking is resistant to heat.  Furthermore, it does not become distorted when exposed to extended periods of moisture.  This type of decking has a shiny appearance.

Polyvinyl Chloride Based:

While this type of deck does not imitate the look of wood, it is lightweight and has the hardest surface of the three.  It can become more slippery after a rainfall.  It gains favor with homeowners for being more scratch resistant than other types.

 

Learn More About Composite Deck Building:

Composite Deck Building Reviews:

"Lindus was great to work with. We couldn’t be happier with our new deck."

Todd M.
Woodbury, MN
May 5, 2022

"I was out of state when the work was done so all I have seen is pictures. I can say this company is great with communication, returning calls, & scheduling. Always very friendly and professional. From what I can see in pictures, they did a great job on the deck!"

Sally M.
Excelsior, MN
April 18, 2022

"Deck replacement with composite materials. Staff was friendly and knowledgeable, on time and communication was good. The deck looks great!"

Marrielle & Fred O.
Shoreview, MN
November 22, 2021

Gutters and deck on our new construction. We love our new deck. The gutters were installed right on time and are performing well. On both jobs the young men were excellent. Very skilled and willing to work with us if we decided to make changes.”

Craig S.
Minnetrista, MN
October 28, 2021

"Lindus has been my partner for multiple home improvement projects including re-siding with beautiful LP® siding, installing LeafGuard® Gutters, re-roofing and more. Most recently, Tristan and his crew replaced my old wood deck with a beautiful maintenance-free deck. The crew was professional and did beautiful work. I am so pleased. Lindus is my go-to partner for my home's construction needs. Thanks, Lindus, for always living up to my very high expectations!"

Carol B.
Mahtomedi, MN
August 11, 2021

"I just have to tell you that I love my new deck!!!. The guys did a great job in four days. Some of the comments from my neighbors are It is a work of art; it is absolutely awesome.'  Thank you for giving me so many options so my deck looks so unique."

Judy N.
Bloomington, MN
August 11, 2021
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