DIY decking projects are becoming increasingly popular as homeowners look to enhance their outdoor spaces with a personal touch. However, choosing the right decking material can be a daunting task. Many DIYers make critical mistakes when selecting decking, which can lead to unexpected costs and frustration down the line. Let’s explore common decking mistakes and explain how composite decking offers practical solutions to these problems.
Mistake 1: Choosing Cheap Materials Over Long-Term Value
One of the most common mistakes DIYers make is opting for cheaper decking materials. While the initial cost of natural wood or basic plastic decking may seem appealing, it often results in higher long-term expenses. Cheap materials can deteriorate quickly, leading to frequent repairs or replacements. Over time, these costs add up, making the initial savings negligible.
How Composite Solves It:
Composite decking, though often more expensive upfront, offers exceptional long-term value. For example, check out Dino UK. Its durability means you won’t have to worry about frequent repairs or replacements. Composite decks are designed to withstand the elements, which means they last longer and save you money in the long run.
Mistake 2: Underestimating Maintenance Requirements
Maintaining a traditional wood deck can be time-consuming and costly. Wood decks require regular staining, sealing, and repair work to keep them looking their best and to extend their lifespan. Many DIYers underestimate the amount of effort required to keep their wood deck in good condition, leading to frustration and unexpected costs.
How Composite Solves It:
Composite decking is known for its low maintenance requirements. Unlike wood, composite decks only need occasional cleaning to keep them looking fresh. There’s no need for staining or sealing, making it a hassle-free option that saves you time and effort.
Mistake 3: Overlooking Durability and Weather Resistance
Traditional wood decks are susceptible to weather-related issues such as warping, splintering, and cracking. Many DIYers fail to consider how their decking choice will hold up against their local climate. This oversight can lead to a deck that doesn’t perform well in extreme weather conditions.
How Composite Solves It:
Composite decking is engineered to be highly durable and resistant to weather extremes. It won’t warp, splinter, or crack, even in harsh weather. This resilience makes it a reliable choice for any climate, ensuring your deck remains in excellent condition year-round.
Mistake 4: Neglecting Safety Features
Safety is a crucial aspect of decking that many DIYers overlook. Traditional wood decks can become slippery when wet and develop splinters over time, posing a risk to children and pets. This can lead to accidents and injuries, which could have been avoided with a more thoughtful choice of materials.
How Composite Solves It:
Composite decking provides a slip-resistant surface and is free from splinters, making it a safer option for families with kids and pets. Its textured surface reduces the risk of slips and falls, providing peace of mind for anyone using the deck.
Elements You Want to See from a Composite Company
Have you decided that it’s time to go composite in your garden? This can be a smart move if you want to benefit from durability, style and longevity. But, what you don’t want to do is rush out and purchase the first composite decking, fencing or trellises you find. Instead, you must carefully choose the composite company you hire from to ensure you’re getting the quality you’re paying for. Here are some elements you want to see from a composite company.
Offers Free Samples
Are you still on the fence about buying composite? If you’ve been used to materials like timber for many years, the thought of swapping to a new material can be daunting. But, the most reputable companies are going to want to show off their products, whether they’re offering composite fencing, decking or trellises. Indeed, they’ll be happy to give you free samples and have them delivered to your home. This gives you the opportunity to inspect the material and make sure the product is up to your standard.
What’s more, the fact that a company is willing to send you free samples shows how confident they are with their product. They know that it’s going to sell itself and are happy to show it off in person without any money or obligation involved.
Has a Long Warranty
You always want to be prepared for any eventuality. Yes, composite is known to be a strong and durable material. But, you have to be prepared if there’s a fault or damage you didn’t cause. So, this is why you want to find a composite company that will give you a long warranty on their products. You won’t have to make any more payments if something goes wrong. It also shows that a company is confident in its product when it offers a long warranty.
So, always take a look at what warranty a company will offer. For example, there are some that are as much as ten years, which is going to give you peace of mind.
Conclusion
Choosing the right decking material for your DIY project is crucial to avoid common mistakes that can lead to frustration and extra costs. Composite decking addresses many of these issues, offering long-term value, low maintenance, durability, safety, aesthetic appeal, and sustainability. By opting for composite, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable decking project that enhances your outdoor space for years to come.
