Are you weighing up options for outdoor floorings and interested to find out more about composite decking? Welcome to this blog post on composite decking - your ideal flooring option for the outdoors. Composite decks typically comprise recycled and reinforced wood flour, wood fibres and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). This unique engineered composition provides the rustic beauty of natural wood but with superior qualities. The following key features of composite decking highlight its benefits, which address major concerns of outdoor floorings.
High Weather Resistance
Through reinforced components and ultraviolet (UV) stabilisers, composite decks have non-porous surfaces and strong insulation to withstand harsh weather conditions. Hence, they are highly resistant against weather elements such as fluctuating temperatures, moisture and UV. The recycled and reinforced compounds also inhibit bacteria and insect growth. With non-slip waterproof surfaces, the decks are safe to walk barefoot on. The fortified woods and thermoplastics facilitate flexural rigidity to restrict warping during thermal expansion and contraction.[1] Also, studies found composites have enhanced fire resistance,[1] which the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) rated Class 1.[2] Hence, it is a viable option for outdoor space with water landscapes such as pools, ponds and fountains.
Optimal Durability
Natural wood inherently provides greater structural integrity and tensile strength to withstand load and tension. However, the chemical treatments and material enhancements remove impurities and increase flexural rigidity by 40% to restrict bending.[1] HDPE has strong intermolecular forces, which extend boiling and melting points. Regular wood decks usually last between 10 to 15 years. Composite decks have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years or more and have warranties to match. Treated wood flour and reinforced wood fibres neutralise tree bark and foreign residues, and thus minimise flaws such as discolouration, wear and rots. Consequently, the decks are free of cracks and splinters, common pain points (no pun intended) homeowners face.
Simple Upkeep
Due to its composite make-up, the surfaces are much easier to clean and maintain when compared with natural materials. They do not require frequent staining, painting, sealing or other additional treatments. A typical homemade cleaning solution is half a cup of white vinegar and one-quarter cup of baking soda into one gallon of lukewarm water. Then, scrub the dirt with a mild bristle brush and rinse off the debris. For stubborn stains, use ammonia-free floor detergent or household cleaners. Then, spray off using a pressure hose or water jet.
Timber Composite Decking by NBL Express
Besides high weather resistance, optimal durability and simple upkeep, our timber composite decks (EvaLAST™ (Solid Core), EcoDECK™ and EasyDECK™ (Hollow Core) provide valuable utility. The rustic colour palettes are versatile to match alfresco furniture and walls and merge well with nature and outdoor landscapes. They are easy and secure to install and replace with interlocking mechanisms and thus highly scalable to various settings. Moreover, when you engage our floorings, you play an essential role in green consumerism. With 11 recycled HDPE to produce sustainable decks,[3] we pledge to save trees and reduce carbon emissions.[4] Our outdoor decks provide the fashion and functionality that brings liveliness to front yards and backyards.[3] Therefore, the decks are ideal for balconies, patios, alfresco dining, gardens, pools, porches and docks in residential and commercial environments.
NBL Express commits to providing outdoor deckings that offer comfort and safe ground and bring the best value to your homes. While outdoor decks may cost more than natural wood decks, the long-term benefits outweigh initial costs. We hope you find this small guide helpful to kickstart and fulfil your outdoor flooring projects. Check out our Timber Composite Decking series page to learn more. Contact us for consultations and quotations on customising composite deckings that fit well into your current outdoor settings.
Sources:
[1] Flexural Stiffness. ScienceDirect, Engineering Topics. Retrieved on 16 November 2021 from https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/flexural-stiffness
[2] Building & Construction Authority. (2008). CONQUAS 21 Enhancement Series Good Industry Practices Guide Book - Design and Material Selection for Quality - Vol 2 [Ebook] (pp. 81 - 86). Singapore. Retrieved on 16 November 2021 from https://www.bca.gov.sg/Publications/EnhancementSeries/design2.html | https://www.bca.gov.sg/Publications/EnhancementSeries/others/design2Ch11.pdf
[3] Mynewsdesk. 2018. NBL EXPRESS EvaLAST and EcoDECK for your Outdoor Flooring Needs. [online] Available at: <https://www.mynewsdesk.com/sg/nbl-express-singapore/blog_posts/nbl-express-evalast-and-ecodeck-for-your-outdoor-flooring-needs-67838> [Accessed 17 November 2021].https://www.mynewsdesk.com/sg/nbl-express-singapore/blog_posts/6-benefits-of-wood-plastic-composite-decking-67987
[4] Shanmugam, V., et al. (2021). Circular economy in biocomposite development: State-of-the-art, challenges and emerging trends. ScienceDirect, Composites Part C: Open Access, Vol 5, Pg 1 - 16. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcomc.2021.100138, Retrieved on 16 November 2021.