When it comes to purchasing composite decking, selecting the right brand can be a bit overwhelming with all the options available. Each brand offers different materials, finishes, warranties, and pricing. To help make your decision easier, we’ve put together a comprehensive buyer’s checklist to compare composite decking brands effectively. Let’s dive in!
Quality of Materials
When comparing composite decking brands, one of the most important factors to consider is the quality of the materials used. Composite decking is made from a blend of wood fibres and plastic, but different brands may use different formulations.
- Wood content: Higher-quality brands use a higher percentage of wood fibres, which provides a more natural feel and stronger durability.
- Plastic quality: Check whether the decking uses high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE). HDPE offers better durability and resistance to damage.
- Capping: Many high-end brands offer a capped composite that provides a protective layer around the decking board, improving its resistance to stains, scratches, and UV damage.
Aesthetic Options
Your deck should complement your home’s exterior, so take a close look at the aesthetic options each brand offers.
- Colours and finishes: Some brands offer a wide range of colours and finishes, including wood-look grains, matte, and glossy options. Ensure the colours match your desired aesthetic. For example, check out www.dino.co.uk/category/composite-decking-boards/.
- Textures: Consider if the brand provides textured or smooth finishes. Textured finishes can add more slip resistance, which is a plus for areas that are often wet.
Durability and Performance
A high-quality deck should withstand various weather conditions without deteriorating. Compare how the brands stand up to:
- Weather resistance: Look for boards that are resistant to fading, mould, mildew, and rot. Some brands have special coatings that provide additional protection against harsh weather.
- Scratch resistance: Check if the brand offers scratch-resistant decking, which can be especially important if you have pets or plan to host many gatherings on your deck.
- Stain resistance: Brands with stain-resistant coatings or technology will help your deck stay looking new longer, even if you spill food or drinks.
Warranty Coverage
A strong warranty is essential when purchasing composite decking, as it shows the manufacturer’s confidence in the quality and longevity of their product.
- Length of warranty: Ensure the brand offers a long warranty. Many reputable brands offer warranties that last between 25 years and a lifetime.
- What’s covered: Look at what the warranty covers—some brands may offer lifetime coverage on certain aspects like fading, while others may only cover defects in materials or manufacturing.
- Transferability: Check if the warranty is transferable. If you plan to sell your home in the future, having a transferable warranty can be a valuable selling point.
Tips for Boosting Your Property Value with Decking
Are you looking for upgrades that are going to increase the value of your house? This is something that you have to think about if you’re going to be selling in the near future. Not only can you get enjoyment from these upgrades now, but you can also make sure that you benefit financially later on.
Know that decking is a fantastic investment to make when it comes to your property. More families are looking to spend time outdoors and this can be a relaxing place to sit. Indeed, you’re expanding your living space. Here are a few tips you need to know in order to boost your property value with this addition.
Choose Quality Materials
It can be tempting to build decking on a budget. But, you have to remember that doing things cheaply won’t pay off in the long run. In fact, it might even damage your property value. It’s recommended that you choose high-quality materials such as composite for decking. This is known to be strong and sturdy, which can last for many years.
Look after the Decking
We all know that British weather can make a mess of your garden. Algae can grow, and the place is damp for months of the year. Something that you want to do is take care of your decking. So, when the spring months roll around, you want to clean up the place. You should also inspect the decking for any necessary repairs and keep on top of this.
Install Correctly
Are you rushing the decking build and attempting your first DIY project? You might think that small mistakes don’t matter. But, it can later down the line. If you don’t make the surface even or you have a strange design, this isn’t going to increase your property value. You need to take your time or hire professionals for the job.
Conclusion
Comparing composite decking brands may feel like a daunting task, but with this buyer’s checklist, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision. By taking into account factors like material quality, durability, aesthetics, warranty, and price, you’ll be able to select a brand that fits your needs and your budget. Take your time to research, and you’ll soon be enjoying a beautiful and long-lasting deck.
