Choosing the right decking material is an important decision for contractors, architects, and homeowners. But recycled decking materials—including plastic and composite—offer an eco-friendly alternative that doesn’t compromise on quality or aesthetics.
However, before you purchase any recycled decking product, here are a few things you need to know.
Types of Recycled Decking Materials
Recycled decking materials have become a popular choice in the construction industry, which has led to several types of materials being created. The most common types of recycled decking materials are:
Recycled Plastic Decking
Recycled plastic decking is crafted from reclaimed plastic products, such as bags and bottles. This material is highly durable, offering resistance to moisture, insects, and rot, which makes it ideal for areas exposed to the elements.
Products like Trex decking, however, leads the way by using up to 95% recycled content in their decking materials
Composite Decking
Composite decking combines recycled plastic with wood fibers and creates a material that mimics the look of natural wood while providing enhanced durability.
This type of decking requires less maintenance than traditional wood, as it doesn’t need regular staining or sealing. The addition of wood fibers gives composite decking a realistic texture, making it an attractive option for both residential and commercial projects.
Deck Tiles
Deck tiles are crafted from high-quality hardwood like Garapa, IPE, and Cumaru, showcasing sustainable recycling in the decking industry.
They repurpose off-cuts, transforming them into durable, aesthetically pleasing outdoor surfaces while reducing waste and efficiently using natural resources. The use of hardwood ensures longevity and resilience, enhancing any outdoor space with a natural, timeless look.
PVC Decking
PVC decking is manufactured from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a high-strength plastic.
This material is fully recyclable and offers significant advantages, such as resistance to mold, pests, and color fading. Unlike some composites, PVC is made primarily from virgin materials, though some manufacturers are increasingly incorporating recycled content to reduce their environmental footprint.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Recycled Decking Materials
You should also be aware of a few important factors when you are purchasing recycled decking products. To name a few:
1. Durability and Low Maintenance
Recycled decking materials are designed to withstand the rigors of various environmental conditions, which often makes them a reliable choice for long-term projects.
However, composite and plastic decking are particularly noted for their resistance to moisture, insects, and UV rays, which helps maintain both their appearance and structural integrity over time.
Both of these materials require minimal upkeep, as they do not need to be sealed, stained, or treated regularly—saving both time and money.
On the other hand, recycled hardwood decking offers the natural beauty of timber but may require more maintenance to preserve its appearance and durability, especially in climates with extreme weather fluctuations.
2. Environmental Impact
When it comes to environmental friendliness, the composite decking companies like TimberTech and Trex are leaders in this area, and they make substantial contributions to sustainability through their innovative recycling programs.
3. Design Flexibility
Recycled decking materials are available in a wide range of colors, finishes, and textures.
Composite decking is particularly noted for its variety of finishes—from natural wood tones to modern, vibrant colors. Its versatility makes it easy to match your decking with the overall design of your outdoor space. And the textured surfaces mimic the feel of natural wood while providing slip resistance.
4. Cost
When evaluating recycled decking, it’s essential to consider both the upfront costs and the long-term financial benefits.
Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings:
While recycled decking may have a higher initial cost compared to traditional wood, it offers significant savings over time.
The durability and low maintenance requirements of composite and plastic decking reduce the need for frequent repairs and replacements. This long-term cost-effectiveness makes recycled decking a wise investment for both residential and commercial projects.
Comparative Analysis
Recycled plastic and composite decking typically offer better value over time compared to non-recycled options. The combination of durability, low maintenance, and environmental benefits makes these materials an attractive choice for those looking to invest in a sustainable future.
5. Sustainability
The sustainability of recycled decking materials is another factor the you need to consider.
At Lumber Plus, we ensure that our products are sourced from sustainable materials and that contribute positively to the circular economy. This commitment not only supports environmental conservation but also meets the growing demand for eco-friendly building materials.
However, you should also be on the lookout for certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and LEED, which are critical indicators of a product’s sustainability.
These certifications are recognized for their minimal environmental impact and make them one of the best choices for green building projects.
Explore Premium Decking Solutions with Lumber Plus
Lumber Plus offers a comprehensive range of sustainable decking solutions, including hardwood, composite, and PVC options.
Our products are designed to meet the highest standards of quality and environmental responsibility, making them the ideal choice for your next construction project.Contact us today for more information.
