Composite decking has come a long way over the past several years. Now you can choose from many different types of materials, colors, and features. In addition, the process for making them has become more technologically advanced. This allows you to choose the right composite material for your particular situation.

One of the advantages of composites is their high-quality construction. They are lightweight and resistant to moisture and sunlight. Unlike pressure-treated wood, they will not rot or warp. Plus, they’re easy to install. You can install them with the same tools you would use for a wooden deck. Adding a composite deck to your home will improve its aesthetic appeal.

Many composites contain a significant amount of recycled materials, so they’re a great choice for the environment. The material used to make composite decking is also light, making it much easier to handle on a project site. It also doesn’t attract termites.

Another advantage is the warranty. Most manufacturers offer a limited lifetime warranty. A few even have warranties transferable to a new homeowner. Be careful to follow the manufacturer’s directions. If you don’t, your warranty won’t cover scratches or stains. Also, be sure to check your warranty for terms that composite decking don’t apply to you.

The CPSC also recommends checking the decking for easily-cracked surfaces. Light scratches will blend in over time, but they can’t be sanded out.

Composites can be made from a variety of materials, such as plastic, wood, or metal. Typically, they contain at least 40 percent wood. Some brands contain as much as 70 percent.

Composite decking is one of the least expensive options on the market. You can find boards that cost as little as $15 to $35 per square foot. They can be installed with screws or nails through the top or the face of the board. And they can be installed in a wide variety of profiles, depending on what you’re looking for. These include two-sided, three-sided, and four-sided. Depending on the profile you choose, you can cut down on the number of fasteners you need.

Another reason composite decking is a good option is that it’s relatively low maintenance. While you should still wash it from time to time, it won’t require any sanding. Moreover, you can clean it with soapy water and a soft brush. Additionally, you won’t need to paint or seal it.

Composites have become a popular choice because they offer a lot of advantages. Composite decking is also a smart way to add value to your home. That’s because you can recoup the cost of your investment if you decide to sell. However, if you don’t take care of the material, it will rot, splinter, and degrade over time.

Choosing the right composite material is a critical decision. For example, you might want to look into hard-shell composites, which provide an integrated layer of protection. They’re also very durable and UV resistant. But if you’re looking for the look of real wood, you may not be able to achieve it with a composite.