Wood composite material is a combination of wood fibres, recycled plastics, and bonding agents. These materials are heated together, formed into boards, and then cooled. The result is a high- quality, long-lasting composite board, which has all the beauty of timber but the practicalities of plastic.

Composite decking can also be extremely sustainable. For example, here at Ecodek our composite boards are made from 95% sustainably sourced and recycled materials, and are 100% recyclable at the end of their lives.

PVC decking is made from polyvinyl chloride (a type of plastic) and does not contain any organic materials. Traditionally PVC decking has been perceived as the more economical decking option, which whilst being more cost effective, is a lower quality than its timber or composite counterparts. However, this is no longer the case.

There are now many high-quality PVC decking options on the market, each ideally imitating real wood whilst providing the many benefits PVC has to offer.

There are many benefits of composite decking which make it the perfect choice for your next decking project:

• Composite decking is virtually maintenance free and only needs an occasional clean to keep it looking its best. This means you can spend more time enjoying your decking rather than maintaining it.
• Composite decking is slip resistant and splinter free, making it safe and comfortable underfoot in any weather.
• Composite decking is rot and split resistant, so it keeps its integrity and appearance a lot longer than alternative materials.
• Composite decking is extremely long lasting and often comes with an extended warranty, for example Ecodek’s decking ranges are supplied with up to 25-year warranties.

Composite does not require any treatments or paints which may be harmful to the environment.

It is not just decking boards that can be made from wood composite. The frame on which your decked area sits, the substructure, can also be constructed from the same composite material. This means that, unlike a softwood frame which may rot within 5 years, your sub structure will be just as strong and long lasting as your boards and will not fail and compromise the integrity of your beautiful wood composite boards.

The benefits of PVC decking are much the same as those for composite decking:

• PVC decking does not require any treatments to protect it from the elements or paints to make it more attractive.
• PVC decking will not rot or warp.
• PVC decking is extremely durable.
• PVC decking is simple to maintain and look after.